The check engine light is often considered the most intimidating of all dashboard notifications, but understanding its function can help ease some worry when you see that amber light of doom.  It may not be as tragic as you might think.

Check engine lights are part of your vehicle's Onboard Diagnostics (OBD) system.  These systems first came about in the 1980s when computers started playing a more key role in vehicle diagnostics and when new environmental laws started putting stricter regulations on vehicle emissions.  OBD systems of today have the sophisticated capabilities to monitor all types of vehicle performance, with a primary focus on your car's emissions system to help keep the air clean.  When it finds a problem in the electronic-control system that it can't correct, the computer turns on your dashboard warning light and logs a trouble code in its memory. 

So, what should you do if your light comes on?  First, you can troubleshoot the problem fairly quickly on your own.  Check to make sure your gas cap and oil cap are fully tightened and that your oil dipstick is fully reseated.  It could also be a bad tank of gas, so running out the tank could be the answer.

If these measures don't solve the problem, take your car to a technician to run a diagnostic test (Rogers Auto Group will run yours for free).  The technician will plug a code reader into your car's data port, displaying a numerical code that can be referenced to diagnose your car's problem.  Potential culprits causing the check engine light can be any number of issues, including a wet engine, faulty oxygen sensors, a blown gasket head, worn-out spark plugs, or cracked hoses.

How severe is your problem and when should you start to worry?  If your car seems to be running normally, with no unusual sounds, smells, or change in performance, you probably don't need to rush over to the mechanic.  However, it is recommended that you don't procrastinate too long, as the light may indicate the beginnings of a much more serious problem.  Waiting could pile up the problems, and not to mention the costs.