My AutoPlace

Check engine light: what it means and what to do

Engine management light, orange engine symbol

Book this weekSafe to keep driving for now, but get it checked this week.

The engine computer has found a fault, often with a sensor, the ignition or the emissions system. A steady light means get it checked soon. A flashing light usually means the engine is misfiring: slow down, avoid hard acceleration and get it looked at straight away.

What it means

Your car's engine computer watches dozens of sensors. When a reading is out of range, it stores a fault code and turns this light on. The code tells a technician where to look, not always what's broken.

Can I keep driving?

Usually yes, gently, if the light is steady and the car feels normal. Not if it flashes.

What to do now

  1. If the light is steady and the car drives normally, book a check in the next few days.
  2. If it flashes, or the car shakes, loses power or smells hot, drive gently to a safe place and get it checked before going further.
  3. On some cars a loose fuel cap turns it on. Tighten it and see if the light goes out after a few trips.

Common causes

  • A faulty oxygen or air flow sensor
  • Spark plugs or ignition coils
  • A loose or worn fuel cap
  • Catalytic converter problems

Shops near you that can check this

Closest first. Your location stays on your phone.

Car Lab

Auckland CBD

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

M Tech

Henderson

Mechanics

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AZ Autos

Papatoetoe

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AB Autos

Panmure

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

Fredco

Kingsland

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

VIRLTD

Onehunga

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

See all mechanics in this suburb

Questions drivers ask

Can I drive with the check engine light on?

Usually yes, gently, if the light is steady and the car feels normal. Not if it flashes.

What does the check engine light mean?

The engine computer has found a fault, often with a sensor, the ignition or the emissions system. A steady light means get it checked soon. A flashing light usually means the engine is misfiring: slow down, avoid hard acceleration and get it looked at straight away.

What should I do when the check engine light comes on?

If the light is steady and the car drives normally, book a check in the next few days. If it flashes, or the car shakes, loses power or smells hot, drive gently to a safe place and get it checked before going further. On some cars a loose fuel cap turns it on. Tighten it and see if the light goes out after a few trips.

Need a tow? Call now

If anyone is hurt or you're in danger, call 111 first. Get off the road and wait behind the barrier.

Call AA Roadservice 0800 500 222

Members and non-members can call. Have your location and rego ready.

Other numbers to try

  • Your insurer's roadside line. Many policies include a free tow, and it's on your policy card or app.
  • Your car maker's roadside assistance, if the car is new enough.
  • A local tow company. Search "tow truck" with your suburb, and ask the price before you agree.

Need it fixed after? Find a shop near you and call them.

Book

What for?

Free to book. The shop texts to confirm, and gives you a written quote before any work.