What does it mean when the “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” light comes on?
This indicator pops up when your vehicle’s on-board computer detects an error in its operating system. There are literally hundreds of different errors that the ECM can detect and display. These problems can range from something as simple as a loose gas cap to a pending engine or transmission failure. If you don’t want to be stranded, you should have your vehicle checked or repaired anytime the “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” light comes on. The computer’s operating system monitors and controls the engine, transmission, emissions system, power steering and climate controls. This on-board computer system should only be serviced by trained technicians. In most cases a particular sensor is not to blame for a given code. The sensor only monitors mechanical functions. Usually when an error code is displayed, there is a mechanical malfunction causing the sensor to give abnormal readings.
