When that little orange light flicks on…
You’re driving along, everything seems fine, and suddenly that Check Engine Light pops up on your dash. Your stomach drops — but don’t panic. The light doesn’t always mean your car’s in serious trouble. At Tried and True Auto in Salem, Utah, we help drivers every week figure out what that light really means and whether it’s something simple or urgent.
Step 1: Check for Any Obvious Issues
Before you head to the shop, take a quick look at a few basics:
-
Tighten your gas cap. Believe it or not, a loose gas cap is one of the most common reasons that light comes on. If it’s not sealing properly, vapors leak from the fuel system and trigger the light.
-
Listen and look for changes. Is the engine running rough, stalling, or making new noises? Is there smoke or a strong fuel smell? If so, it’s best to stop driving and call for help.
-
Check your gauges. If your temperature gauge looks high or oil light is also on, shut off the engine immediately to prevent damage.
Step 2: Don’t Ignore It — Even If the Car Seems Fine
Many people drive for weeks with the Check Engine Light on because “the car feels normal.” That can be a costly mistake. Modern engines are full of sensors that detect small efficiency or emission issues before you feel any symptoms. What starts as a $50 sensor problem can turn into a $1,500 catalytic converter replacement if left unchecked.
At Tried and True Auto, we recommend scheduling a diagnostic check or dropping by so we can scan the codes and tell you exactly what’s happening — no guesswork or scare tactics.
Step 3: Understand What the Light Is Telling You
There are two main types of Check Engine Lights:
-
Solid Light: A non-urgent fault, like a bad sensor or loose gas cap. Safe to drive short distances but should be checked soon.
-
Flashing Light: A more serious problem, often a misfire that can damage your catalytic converter. Pull over safely and call us or a tow service.
When we scan your vehicle at Tried and True Auto, we’ll translate those computer codes into plain English and show you what’s really going on — before doing any repairs.
Step 4: Get a Proper Diagnosis — Not Just a Code
Parts stores often offer “free code scans,” but that only tells you what system noticed a problem, not why it happened. For example, a code for an oxygen sensor doesn’t always mean the sensor itself is bad — it could be a fuel or vacuum issue triggering the reading.
Our certified technicians perform a full Check Engine Light diagnostic using professional equipment and real-world testing to pinpoint the actual cause. Then we’ll explain your options clearly so you can decide what makes sense for your budget and your vehicle.
Step 5: Fix It Right — and Keep It from Coming Back
Once we’ve identified the cause, we’ll complete the repair with quality parts and double-check that the system is cleared and performing normally. Every repair we do is backed by our Tried and True Auto service guarantee — something our Salem customers really appreciate.
The Bottom Line
That Check Engine Light doesn’t have to ruin your day. Most of the time, it’s a simple fix — but it’s always worth knowing for sure. If you’re near Salem, Spanish Fork, or Payson, come by Tried and True Auto and let our experienced technicians check it for you. We’ll make sure you understand the issue, the options, and the cost — no pressure, just honesty.
Recent Comments