Check Engine Indicator Light

CHECK ENGINE light comes on when ignition is turned on, and goes out when engine is started. If CHECK ENGINE light stays on, or comes on when engine is running, this indicates there is a malfunction in emission control system or engine management system which may affect emissions, or fuel cap is not properly seated. If malfunction is of type that may cause catalytic converter damage, CHECK ENGINE light will continuously flash.

CHECK ENGINE light will remain on until fault is corrected and memory is cleared. CHECK ENGINE light may also go out if the malfunction that caused the CHECK ENGINE light to come on no longer exists during 3 consecutive drive cycles.

If CHECK ENGINE light fails to illuminate when ignition is turned on, bulb is faulty, and/or wire to bulb is shorted to ground. For further information, see appropriate SELF-DIAGNOSTICS article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE.