What is Car Engine Warning Light or Car Engine Check Light

What is Car Engine Warning Light


The engine seems to work well when suddenly a check engine light or engine icon of the dashboard lights. What's happening? If the engine is packing it in? Probably not, but something is wrong. The light usually indicates that the engine management computer has detected a malfunction of fuel or a component or system failures.




"Check engine" light is part of the car's so-called on-board diagnostic (OBD). Since ', 1980 more and more computer and monitor vehicle performance, the parameters that regulate the engine speed (RPM), fuel mixture and ignition timing. In some cars, the computer also tells the automatic transmission when you change.

When it finds a problem in the electronic control system which can not correct that the computer turns on a yellow warning indicator, which is labeled engine warning light, "service engine soon" or "verify powertrain. " Or the lights may be nothing but a picture of an engine, known as the international symbol for checking the engine, perhaps with the word "Check".

In addition to transforming the light, Computer Stores "trouble codes" in its statement that identifies the source of the problem, such as sensor failure or an engine misfire. The code can be read by electronic reading device or computer diagnostic standard garage. There are also several code readers relatively inexpensive, which is designed for do-it-yourself.

Producers initially the OBD system allows technicians to diagnose and repair malfunctions. But now, according to Federal law requires cars. Although most vehicles are exempt from the requirement that the rapid change.

Check engine light is reserved for the transmission problems that can affect the emissions systems," said John Van Gilder, General Motors, the chief engineer OBD development.

Exactly what research DAB depends on the make, model and year. The original systems vary considerably in their capabilities. Some have a little more to see if the various electronic sensors and actuators were connected and working.

That changed in 1996 when, under the regulations of OBD II, manufacturers are required to install a more sophisticated system that essentially acts as a high level of state emissions testing station. Computer monitors and adjusts dozens of components and processes.

For example, continually samples exhaust emissions, because they come from the engine and again when they leave the catalytic converter, a device that removes carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon pollutants in the exhaust gases. In addition, the system monitors the car's fuel, which will ensure that gasoline vapors escape into the atmosphere does not leak or even a gas cap loose or missing. In most cases, if a problem occurs, the computer will wait and see if you correct before turning on the light. Modern OBD II is so complete that research centers have yet to be checked the error codes stored and the traditional test of exhaust emissions.

Some states are considering an advanced OBD system that would allow them to remove the emissions test. If the "check engine" light comes on, the system will automatically allow the remote control signal to government officials, who will contact drivers who have not corrected the problem within a reasonable time. privacy advocates have criticized the idea is too intrusive. Depending on the system, officials might be able to trace where the vehicle was.

Supporters say the system free from motorists time and money to be made annually or bi-annual emissions test, and helps to ensure that emission-related problems are found and fixed more quickly. Oregon intends to publish such a program voluntarily in less than a year.

remote diagnostics on vehicles already equipped with GM's OnStar communications system. When the "Check Engine" lights, car owners can notify a representative of GM's OnStar, which can read the error code and provide advice.

 

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