Understanding the Check Engine Light 

Decoding its Colors and What They Mean

The Check Engine Light Woes

Imagine you're cruising down the highway, enjoying the drive, when suddenly, the check engine light illuminates on your dashboard. Panic sets in—what could be wrong? One common misconception is that the check engine light's color indicates the issue's severity. However, that's not entirely true. At Mad Hatter Auto Repair in Omaha, NE, and Council Bluffs, IA, we'll delve into what the colors of the check engine light mean.

What the Colors Mean

When the check engine light appears yellow or amber, it typically indicates a minor issue that requires attention but doesn't immediately threaten your vehicle's safety. This could be something as simple as a faulty sensor or a loose gas cap . While you may not need to pull over immediately, it's still important to address the issue quickly to prevent damage to your car. If the check engine light appears red, that is indicative of a bigger problem that requires immediate attention. Continuing to drive with a red check engine light could lead to serious vehicular damage, or even pose a safety risk to you and your car's inhabitants. In this case, it's crucial to pull over as soon as it's safe to do so and contact a professional mechanic for assistance. A flashing check engine light indicates a critical issue that requires immediate attention. This could be a sign of a misfiring engine, which can cause damage to your catalytic converter if not addressed promptly. When you see a flashing check engine light, it's essential to pull over immediately and have your car towed to a mechanic for repairs. Now, even if your vehicle doesn't have varying degrees of colors for these dashboard lights, it's still essential not to ignore them. Whether it's yellow, red, or flashing, the check engine light is your vehicle's way of communicating that something isn't right. By understanding what the colors mean and how to respond, you can ensure that your vehicle stays in optimal condition and avoid costly repairs down the road.

Get Check Engine Light Diagnostics with Us

If your check engine light comes on, don't panic - bring your vehicle to Mad Hatter Auto Repair in Omaha, NE. We've been providing reliable auto repair services since 1979, with a team of ASE Master Certified technicians who use state-of-the-art diagnostics equipment to quickly and accurately diagnose those pesky check engine lights. We'll perform a thorough diagnostic test to determine the problem and fix it promptly, getting you back on the road in no time.