What does the check icon look like? Basic actions if the “Check Engine” light on the instrument panel of the machine lights up

Modern cars are quite complex equipment, and this is not only the engine and transmission, but also the rest of the on-board systems, sometimes even the suspension can be automated if it is, say, pneumatic. Breakdowns, even complex ones, are not so easy to diagnose, because even a motor that needs major repairs can work for some more time until it completely jams. But manufacturers do not allow this critical moment, and therefore signal the driver. Such a “beacon” is the “Check Engine” indicator, which lights up when something is malfunctioning in the car ...

CHECK ENGENE (literal translation - “check the engine”) - a set of sensors and systems that indicate the on-board computer to the state of the engine or other controlled elements. In working condition, after starting the motor, this indicator should go out.

If, after starting, this sensor is constantly on, then this is definitely a complex malfunction that needs to be urgently eliminated.

In simple words, guys, this is a complete “priest” when your “Check Engine” caught fire, I know from my own experience that there is nothing good here! The last time, when I was constantly on fire, the catalyst was covered, and this is not a very cheap element on foreign cars, but everything is in order.

I will calm down a little or slight malfunctions

As I wrote above, in modern machines"CHEK" can burn not only because of the power unit, but also because of a bunch of other factors, and they are not always critical.

1) For example, German and many European cars are very demanding on the quality of gasoline. If the level is low, then this indicator can often be on! Many people ask the question - how does this happen? How does a car determine the quality of gasoline, does it chemically test it? Of course - NO, guys, everything is much simpler.

The thing is that during the operating cycles of the engine, misfiring can occur. That is, there is a fuel supply, but there is no ignition! Thus, the candle does not work normally, the “triple” of the power unit appears, and this indicator lights up (especially on a cold engine).

Eliminating this is quite simple, you need to unscrew the candles and look at them - if there is black soot, then low-quality fuel is filled, you need to change the gas station.

2) Moisture in the ignition system. Sometimes it happens that water got into the ignition system. It forms a "bridge" between the wires or coils and the case - a short circuit occurs. There may be gaps in the formation of a spark, and the ignition coils may simply burn out. Such problems can arise if - it is wrong to wash the motor, simply filling it with water.

3) Wrong antifreeze. Despite the "woe" of masters or professionals who shout at every "threshold" that you can pour red into the system of a car that is designed for green, or that antifreeze and antifreeze are "one to one" - the same thing! Many Japanese cars they don’t think so (collected in Japan, and not in Russia or Europe). They are very demanding on the quality of the coolant! They may not even start and, of course, “CHECK” is on. So let's pay attention.

4) Machine tank. Did you know that many manufacturers take into account the pressure in the tank? That is, if you don’t corny close the tank lid, or vice versa, close it too tightly (although this is practically impossible now), then hello “CHECK ENGINE”. The thing is that pressure is needed for proper mixture formation, fuel supply and injection. Fortunately, budget foreign cars do not suffer like this.

As you can see, if there are minor malfunctions that you can fix with your own hands, and there can be much more of them than I have listed, because the more complicated the electronics, the more small jambs come out! BUT there are also complex malfunctions that entail complex repairs.

Complicated repair

As you guessed, in difficult cases, the "Check Engine" also lights up. Let me list a little:

1) Let's start with the catalyst. If it is clogged and does not cope with its tasks, then our indicator lights up. The thing is that the exhaust gases cannot pass through correctly, which prevents the engine from working.

2) The ignition coil is broken. On modern engines there may be one for each cylinder.

3) One of the motor sensors is faulty. Whether it's an oxygen sensor or crankshaft position.

4) The fuel pump failed. Does not pump correct pressure or doesn't work at all.

5) Fuel injection nozzles do not work. Thus, they do not spray fuel into the cylinders. The car simply won't start.

Again, in fairness, it is worth noting that there can be much more breakdowns. The more complex the machine, the more often the indicator lights up.

I would like to say a few words about the transmission, for example, many automatic machines or robots are also equipped with control electronics. Therefore, if gaps and failures appear in the work, it is possible that the Check Engine will light up.

The check engine light came on, what should I do?

If your car is still moving, then you just need to go for diagnostics - consider yourself lucky. It is possible that it is simply low-quality fuel, or water has got on the coils - wires.

However, if your car works intermittently, constantly stalls, and at the moments of such “uneven” work, the indicator is constantly on, then it’s bad. Personally, I would do this:

1) Turn off the engine

2) Call a tow truck, load the car

3) Hurry to the station Maintenance Or at least diagnostics.

It is possible that you have a complex malfunction and with each attempt to start the engine, you exacerbate the problem even more.

How to determine a breakdown or diagnosis

You know, a couple of years ago, troubleshooting was a rather complicated process. You had to go to the service station, connect the scanners for your model and read them, after which the malfunction was already determined by the codes! Terrible and expensive! But there was nowhere to go.

Now technologies are developing and for almost a penny price you can order a scanner for a car that works in conjunction with a phone. Just download the program to your phone, insert the scanner into the universal socket, and see the errors yourself, if necessary, discard them. After determining the malfunction, simply eliminate it either with your own hands or with the help of masters at the service station.

Can the Check Engine go out on its own?

Highly frequently asked question which my readers ask me. However, this happens extremely rarely, I read somewhere that for this you need to disconnect the battery, remove the terminals, wait for a while (it's different for everyone, someone waits half a day) and the indicator will go out!

But in practice, this is not at all the case - even if you have caught fire from the fact that low-quality gasoline was poured, then this error “hangs” in the on-board computer and nothing will go out until it is removed!

Therefore, it is impossible to completely exclude such a possibility, but I think you should not flatter yourself - DIAGNOSIS IS NEEDED!

Now watch the video version of the article

Wow, a great article turned out, I think it fully reveals the essence of this "terrible" indicator. If you liked the article, tell your friends about it through social networks, I will be grateful.

No one is immune from the fact that even with the most careful operation of the car, one or another failure in the operation of one of its systems will occur. To provide visual control over the main parameters of the motor and related components, a visual tracking system is provided. The so-called control display allows you to react in a timely manner to malfunctions in the engine, thereby protecting it from more serious damage.

One way or another, the control lamp, which suddenly flashed on the instrument panel, only notifies the driver that the control system has detected a malfunction. The system only signals a breakdown, but does not allow to judge the specific location and cause of the problem.

For a more detailed study of the problem, you should use a special scanner for complex diagnostics, better known among motorists as "Launch".

Among all other visual warning indicators, a special place is occupied by an indicator signaling an engine breakdown. In this case, a prompt solution to the problem will be required. Otherwise, there is a high probability that the engine will simply fail.

What actions should be taken if the Check Engine light comes on? Let's try to understand this in more detail.

When the Check Engine light comes on - 10 reasons

In the event that a simple icon with the image of a motor is displayed on the instrument panel, do not panic and immediately contact the nearest service station. First you need to identify the nature and cause of the breakdown.

Particular attention should be paid to the behavior of the control indicator. The fact is that with a certain type of malfunction, it can burn for a short time, in other cases, it burns constantly.

Let's get acquainted with the list of the most common causes of the presented phenomenon.

1. Low fuel level / violation of the tightness of the fuel tank;
2. Low engine oil level;
3. Improper operation of spark plugs;
4. Clogged fuel injectors;
5. Failure of the ignition coil and breakdown of armored wires;
6. The supply of a spark discharge to the engine cylinders is disrupted;
7. Damage to the lambda probe;
8. Violation of the catalyst;
9. Interruptions in the supply of fuel;
10. Poor quality fuel.

The first of these reasons is encountered quite rarely, however, it should not be ruled out. Often this situation occurs when the fuel in the tank is running out. Under such circumstances, the submersible fuel pump starts what is called "idle".

The engine is forced to experience fuel starvation. In addition, the design features of the fuel pump do not allow it to operate in this mode for a long time. It simply begins to experience excessive loads, which negatively affects its service life and fuel supply as a whole. It is also worth noting that this state of affairs negatively affects the operation of the lambda probe.

In addition, within the framework of the presented reason, it will not be superfluous to mention the fuel tank cap.

The fact is that its loose fit to the neck of the tank can cause the appearance of a “check”. An indispensable condition for the smooth operation of the fuel system is the tightness and maintenance of optimal pressure. The tank lid, equipped with a valve mechanism, in this case plays an important role in ensuring the above conditions.

Reason #2 - low engine oil level.

Before going into the details of the reason presented, it should be said that any self-respecting motorist should adopt one simple but very important rule - check the oil level before each trip. This procedure will not take much time and will save you from unforeseen situations.

Where does engine oil go?

This state of affairs can be caused by a variety of factors. For example, the integrity of the engine crankcase may be compromised. Due to mechanical damage to the sump, the oil can simply leak out. There is also the possibility that there is increased wear on the cylinder-piston group of the motor.

As a result of this, the compression of the engine decreases, and the oil simply flies out into the pipe, as evidenced by the characteristic blue exhaust smoke.

"Check" can catch fire and because of faulty spark plugs.

A malfunction is understood as the fact that their working surfaces can be heavily soiled or worn out. In addition, you should pay attention to the value of the gap between the electrodes. It must match the set parameters.

It is not necessary to write off some of our Russian realities regarding the quality of fuel. Poor quality of gasoline cleaning, as well as untimely replacement of filters, can lead to clogging of fuel injectors. It should be noted that these elements of fuel equipment are very sensitive to the quality of gasoline.

In addition to the fuel system, there is also the vehicle's electrical system, which accounts for the majority of all malfunctions. The appearance of a hated light bulb may be due to a failure ignition coils.

For example, due to its breakdown, the supply of a spark to the engine cylinders is disrupted. Do not forget about high-voltage wires. They tend to lose their insulating properties and simply "short to ground".

Another reason for the situation under consideration may arise when intervening in the gas distribution system of the car timing.

Its essence boils down to the fact that the gas distribution phases are violated. Thus, the spark is not supplied at the end of the compression stroke, as it should be. A similar situation could arise, for example, with an incorrect.

Among the reasons for the appearance of the "Check Engine" indicator may be a faulty Lambda probe. During operation, this simple unit is subject to increased temperature and mechanical stress.

In this regard, various kinds of interruptions may occur in its work:

• heating part failure
• low signal level,
• chain break and others.

To obtain the most reliable data on its performance, you should arm yourself with a scanner and a tester.

The culprit of the events described may be car catalyst. It, like any other consumable, eventually becomes unusable. This is more conducive to low quality used fuel.

Due to the presence of foreign impurities and low level fuel cleaning, catalyst cells clog faster, which adversely affects its bandwidth. Thus, the engine does not develop speed, its traction and throttle response disappear.

In addition, inadequate fuel quality disables key components of fuel equipment. The fuel supply to the car engine cylinders is deteriorating. This situation cannot go unnoticed by the sensors.

The electronic control unit, in turn, analyzing the incoming data from these sensors, signals the driver about the presence of problems using the “Check Engine” control indicator, which is well known to us.

Can I drive with the check light on?

The presented situation can take by surprise any motorist. It's one thing when it happened in the city, where it is possible to use the services of a tow truck or contact the service station staff.

But what to do in the current circumstances, far from the city, on a deserted highway? Let's try to find out in which cases it is allowed to continue driving with the "check" light on.

Below is the sequence of actions that should be followed in a particular case:

• First of all, pay attention to whether any additional indicator is on. An auxiliary control lamp, indicating a failure in a particular system, will allow you to revise a specific vehicle assembly.

For example, if the pressure lamp is on, it can be assumed that there is not enough oil in the lubrication system. The temperature indicator can signal a low level. In this case, to solve the problem, it is enough to replenish the filling fluids.

This situation forces the driver to significantly change the habitual driving style. You need to move evenly, adhering to a low speed. Do not allow a sharp increase in speed and decrease in gas. When the oil pressure indicator appears, there is a possibility that the crankshaft bearing has been displaced.

In this case, a characteristic metallic knock may appear. Further movement in this case may result in costly engine repairs. However, in an emergency, if you have no choice but to continue on your own, you should change gears as little as possible.

• With such a malfunction, it is recommended to move what is called an interference fit: evenly, in a speed range slightly lower than that required by this gear. The engine should be running with a light load.
• Some time after the movement, you should make a stop. At this time, it will not be superfluous to check the oil and coolant levels. Having looked into the engine compartment, carefully inspect the engine and its “hitch” for smudges and oil stains.

Of course, further movement in a car with the engine malfunction indicator on is an unjustified risk. This should only be done as a last resort.

One way or another, even strict adherence to these recommendations will not give a full guarantee that you will safely get to the nearest service station.

How to extinguish the Check Engine indicator

There are at least 2 ways by which you can turn off the so-called "check".

The first method is quite simple and does not require any auxiliary means. To put it into practice, it is enough to throw off the terminal, and then put it back in place.

The algorithm for this approach looks like this:

• warming up the car to operating temperature;
• removal of the "+" terminal of the battery;
• after 10 min. return the terminal to its rightful place;
• turn on the ignition and wait 30-60 seconds;
• turn off the ignition.

Such a procedure will cause the data in the control unit to be updated, and all existing error codes will be erased. However, this method does not always lead to the desired result.

In this case, resort to the use of a special device - a scanner or "launch". This diagnostic tool is connected to the installed diagnostic socket. It is usually located under the steering column or near the pedal assembly.

This scanner allows you to detect violations in the operation of systems and components of the car, providing the driver with a complete list of errors. If necessary, errors can be reset.

Video: how to read and decipher engine errors

We bring to your attention video material, thanks to which the driver will be able to get acquainted with the methods of counting and deciphering engine errors.

Table: most common error codes

We provide you with an overview table of the most common error codes.

per century modern technologies technical specifications The car is provided with a large number of electronics. Cars are literally stuffed with it. Some motorists do not even understand why it is needed or why this or that light is on. In our article we will talk about a small red light bulb called Check Engine. What is it and why does the "Check" light up, let's take a closer look. Drivers begin to deal with this issue when a problem arises. After they understand the purpose of the light bulb, the head starts to hurt even more, since there are many reasons for the Check Engine light to glow. Many immediately resort to the help of car services, because they believe that it is almost impossible to find the cause without a diagnosis.

What kind of light bulb is this and how does it threaten a motorist?

Check Engine, or "Check Engine", literally translated means that you should check the engine. It is located on the main panel, and the slightest glow of the light bulb signals the driver about problems with the power unit. The main function of modern "Checks" is control. They are related to the supply of fuel, fuel consumption, ignition, etc. If you do not have certain knowledge in the field of automaking, it will be very difficult to figure out why the "Check" lights up.

What to do if the check engine light is on

First, remember that this light does not always indicate a malfunction in the engine.

1. If the "Check" lights up when the power unit is started and immediately goes out, then this means that the motor is in good working order, and this is not a cause for concern.
2. If the indicator does not go out, start worrying, because engine failures have been identified. But you shouldn't be too upset, because there is a possibility that they are insignificant, although critical ones are not excluded.

Is it possible to continue driving if the "Check Angie" light is on?

The first thing to do when the indicated indicator lights up is to stop and listen to the car. There are times when the problem disappears on its own. Still, we do not have the most unique electronics. If the problem persists, you need to find the nearest service station and try to solve it.

Going to the service station, you should follow certain rules:

• driving mode vehicle must be gentle;
• try not to maximize the level of revolutions;
• turn off all electronic excesses in the form of an air conditioner, radio, video recorder and any equipment that is currently in the car (multimedia systems also apply to them);
• minimize the number of sudden braking, extreme driving in this case is not welcome;
• the movement of vehicles at night with this disadvantage is not recommended;
• if you are in trouble in the evening on the road, the best way out of the situation is to follow certain precautions.

Remember that ignoring these rules can lead to engine malfunction, which may result in seizure or fire.

The main reasons for the glow of the Check Engine indicator

Check Engine flickers due to faulty spark plugs

Such a problem may arise if the candles have not been changed for too long. It is by no means recommended to save on them. Their cost is not so expensive. Engine repairs will cost more.

If you are a great economist - replace the part yourself. To do this, you only need a candle key.

Unscrew the candles to them, check them for operability. If the problem is not in them at all, clean them of soot and only then install them in place. If the candles are out of order, get new ones. When carrying out work, pay attention to the gap between the electrodes. It should be no more than 1.3 mm. Correct if there are discrepancies.

Ignition coil problem

Can cause the Check Engine light to come on and malfunction. Use a multimeter to test the coil. Check for a spark at the output.

Oxygen sensor problem

Signs: "Check" caught fire. The cause of this malfunction is the exhaust system. The readings are regularly checked by the on-board computer. The probe monitors the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases, which allows you to determine how efficient power unit and how well the fuel burns.

If there is more than sufficient oxygen in the exhaust, the cause may be a violation of the air-fuel mixture preparation system. Or the fuel does not burn completely. Whatever the reason, "Check" will signal a malfunction in the engine.

Some modern cars have 2 lambda probes installed. The first - before the catalyst, the second - after. If the catalyst works properly, then the oxygen supply will be appropriate. From this it follows that the operation of the oxygen sensor largely depends on the performance of the catalyst, because it is he who controls the reduction in exhaust toxicity.

Mass air flow sensor failed

It is possible that the element has failed due to dust covering it. But this is not the main reason for the loss of their performance. There may simply be deviations in the readings. To eliminate this cause, it is necessary to clean the sensor with a special liquid.

However, it should be remembered that when used as this means, irreparable damage to the sensor can be caused. In the event of a complete failure of the oxygen sensor, it is necessary to replace it.

Catalyst failure

In the event of a catalyst failure, you will not be able to fully drive a car in any way, since the engine will work unstably, as evidenced by the "Check" button. In this case, your car will experience significant fuel consumption and there will be no traction. In this case, preventive and corrective measures will not help. The equipment needs to be replaced. Yes, a catalyst is a rather expensive thing, but if the problem is in it, the defect will completely eliminate itself.

Damaged injectors, fuel pump

If the injectors are confirmed, clean them. If the pump and fuel filter are unstable, you will first have to check the pressure in the rail. If it is at least three atmospheres and the flaws are clearly visible, replace the fuel pump and clean the nozzles.

High-voltage wires are another reason when the "Check" lights up. To check it, follow the instructions below. To check the high voltage wires yourself, follow these steps:

1. Fill a stainless steel container with water and add a tablespoon of baking soda.
2. Dip the wires into the solution, leaving the ends on the surface. Next, start checking the wires using a megger. Connect the device itself to the first tip, and the other wire must be connected to the container with wires. If an insulation fault is detected, the resistance will be less than 500 kOhm. In this case, the wires need to be replaced.

Say no to panic

If you find the glow of the "Check" button, do not panic. This will not help to eliminate the shortcomings. Get together and try first to correct the shortcomings on your own according to the recommendations indicated in our article, and only then look for the causes more deeply.

If the above tips did not help you, and you still cannot decide why the “Check” lights up, you should seek help from professionals. You don't have to invent anything on your own. Today's service stations are equipped with the most high-tech and modern equipment that will help find a solution to this issue. Of course, you may have to spend a certain amount of money. But it's not the end of the world. The main thing is to find the cause, because your safety on the road depends on it.

With the end of the era of carburetor fuel mixture preparation systems, their place was taken by electronic fuel injection systems. The widespread introduction of electronics into vehicle systems was accompanied by the emergence of a large number of different sensors, electromechanical actuators and more complex vehicle wiring. All this economy is managed by specialized electronic modules, such as the engine control module (ECU), transmission control module (TCU), on-board electronics control module (BCM), etc.

In this regard, automakers began to equip cars with additional built-in diagnostic systems. Turning on the ignition, the driver modern car, in addition to the traditional control indicators “battery”, “oiler”, etc., he will see a number of indicators on the dashboard related to monitoring the health of the main vehicle systems.

What does the "Check Engine" indicator mean?

On the instrument panel of a car with electronic fuel injection, in without fail there is an indicator in the form of a stylized engine. It is designed to monitor the health of engine management systems. In the English version, this indicator is called “CheckEngine”, which means “check the engine”. For brevity, the abbreviation "CE" for this indicator will be used throughout the text.

Based on the author's own observations, some drivers perceive the CE indicator on the panel to be fatal to the engine and are afraid to continue further movement. Let's take a look at how serious the malfunctions are caused by this indicator being turned on and whether it is possible to continue driving the car with the CE indicator on.

The main reasons for turning on the "CheckEngine" indicator.

The ECU, based on its algorithm, decides when and how much fuel to supply to the cylinders, when exactly to apply voltage to the spark plugs to ignite the fuel mixture, when to turn on the cooling fan, etc. Accordingly, diagnostic tools for these engine systems are also built into the ECU. Let's take a quick look at what data sources are available for the built-in diagnostic system of a car engine.

Source 1. First of all, the evidence of an engine malfunction is the deviation of its operating parameters from acceptable values. In a car, various sensors are the main source of such data. If any of the sensors shows a deviation of the monitored parameter from the norm (for example, exceeding the permissible temperature of the coolant), then the diagnostic system interprets this deviation as a malfunction in the engine, remembers which sensor recorded the deviation from the norm, stores the corresponding error code in memory and turns on CE indicator. The same group of malfunctions can also include malfunctions of the sensors themselves.

fuel injection systems.

Source 2. The second source of data for troubleshooting is the vehicle's electrical wiring. The built-in diagnostic system detects breaks and short circuits in the electrical circuits of sensors and actuators, storing the corresponding error codes in memory.

Source 3. Another source of diagnostic data can be calculated parameters calculated by the engine control unit. An example is the health monitoring of an exhaust gas catalytic converter. Two, installed before and after the converter, by the difference of the signals, allow us to draw a conclusion about the efficiency of the converter.

Thus, turning on the CE indicator only indicates to the driver that the diagnostic system has detected some deviation from the normal operation of the engine, but this indicator itself is not very informative and does not allow you to find out exactly which of the engine control systems has failed. For more accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to read the error code from the ECU memory, which was saved by the diagnostic system. Specialized scanners are used to read error codes. They are connected to a regular car diagnostics block, which is found in almost every modern car.

Can be distinguished "Top 10" most common problems, leading to the inclusion of the CE indicator:

1) Failure of any sensor of the fuel mixture preparation system (mass air flow sensor, etc.).

2) Malfunctions of the ignition system, misfires (, high-voltage wires, ignition modules).

3) Failure oxygen sensors release systems.

4) Decrease in efficiency (development of resource) of catalytic.

5) Air leaks through leaky gaskets and hoses at the inlet or outlet (intake manifold gasket, exhaust manifold gasket, air and vacuum hoses).

6) Breaks and short circuits in the wiring (for example, open or short wiring of sensors, fuel injector supply wiring, fuel pump).

7) Malfunction of the engine shaft position sensors (, camshaft position sensor).

8) Poor quality, increased engine detonation.

9) Malfunctions in the power supply system, increased or decreased voltage in the on-board network (generator malfunction).

10) Internal malfunctions of the engine control unit (failure of the unit's electronics).

How to turn off the Check Engine indicator.

If the diagnostic system has detected several problems at once, several corresponding error codes will be stored in the memory. The CE indicator will remain on as long as there are any error codes in the diagnostic system memory. After troubleshooting, these codes can be cleared using a scan tool. Also, in some cases, errors can be erased by simply de-energizing the car for a few minutes by disconnecting the battery.

Driver actions when the "CheckEngine" indicator is turned on.

Since there can be many reasons for turning on the CE indicator, the decision to continue driving should be made based on the severity of the malfunction. In the vast majority of cases, the CE indicator that lights up does not require an immediate cessation of movement. The manufacturer has put a rather high “survivability” into the engine management system, and even if some sensors fail, the engine will work, albeit not in the most optimal mode.

So, if on the road you see the CE indicator light on the instrument panel, do not panic. If the engine is still running stably, and the readings of other indicators and instruments do not show deviations from the norm, then it is quite easy to get to the place of diagnostics and repair. In this situation, the best option there will be a diagnostic device in the car that will allow you to find out right on the spot which of the engine systems generated an error, what is the severity of this error, and then make a decision whether to move on or still play it safe and call a tow truck.

About three decades ago, cars began to be serially equipped with computer control systems that allow you to quickly find any malfunction. For car service specialists, they provided special connectors with which it was possible to display the necessary information on the tester screen, and the driver could see a malfunction signal thanks to the Check Engine lamp located on the front panel. A similar warning scheme is used today - it is equipped with any machines with injection motors controlled by microprocessors. Therefore, every driver should know what to do if the Check Engine warning light comes on while using the vehicle.

The Check Engine light may indicate a serious problem.

Quick Diagnosis

Finding out what the Check Engine signal means is quite simple - you need to contact a service station equipped with a special electronic scanner. However, such service center may be far enough away or be inaccessible to the motorist for other reasons. Therefore, check, Check Engine, first stands on its own.

If the corresponding signal lights up on the dashboard, you should first check the elementary things - how tightly the gas tank and oil filler caps are tightened. Some machines are equipped with sensors that allow you to keep the process fluids clean - when they are triggered, the driver sees the Check Engine signal. You also need to pay attention to the wires located under the hood - if you see a free-hanging cable or an open terminal, the reason why the Check Engine lights up has been found. The same applies to the fuel system hoses, intake manifold, air supply system.

However, what if visually the car is in perfect order? The first step is to unscrew the candles, which are the Check Engine - they can transmit electrical impulses as a result of carbon deposits on the electrodes and the appearance of a thick coating of various metals contained in the fuel. In addition, the cause of incorrect operation of the motor may be gaps exceeding 1.3 mm. Another common cause of the Check Engine signal may be the deposition of sediment on the surface of the injectors. Additional signs of both mentioned breakdowns:

• Decreased traction;
• Increased fuel costs;
• Twitching that sometimes occurs with increasing speed;
• floating turns.

If the Check Engine light is on, the problem may be the worn insulation of the high voltage wires. Visually floating breakdowns and microcracks are almost impossible to find, so you should use a special tester to search for them. If such a tool is not available, you can try the "grandfather" method. A saturated saline solution is prepared in a stainless or aluminum pan, into which a piece of wire (not a tip!) is immersed. You will need a megohmmeter, one clip of which is attached to the tip of the high-voltage wire, and the second is fixed to the pan - after applying current, a satisfactory resistance should be 500 kOhm, and ideal 1 MΩ.

Serious damage

If the Check Engine light is on, the problem can be quite serious. More often than others, they arise due to the quality of the fuel offered in Russia. Diagnosis is easy to carry out - with the engine running, you need to bring your ear to the device and listen to its sound. Normal is a smooth buzz without clicks and stops. In case of failures, the result of which is the Check Engine signal, you need to remove the fuel pump, flush it from the inside, clean the mesh and eliminate solid inclusions. If the problem cannot be solved in this way, the unit must be given to a specialist for professional repair or replaced.

The ignition coil may be to blame for the appearance of the Check Engine signal, unevenly distributing electrical impulses between the candles of the corresponding cylinders. If a malfunction of this device is found, it must be replaced, not forgetting to check the characteristics new part before installation. If the car is equipped with individual coils, the diagnosis will be complicated, but with the help of a tester it will be possible to find a faulty element of the ignition system.

Often, the Check Engine light comes on when the control devices, represented by the lambda probe and the air flow sensor, break down. It is unprofitable to repair such devices, since the service life of remanufactured sensors is very short. It is better to immediately replace them, thereby extinguishing the Check Engine lamp. A very serious problem can be associated with a breakdown of the catalytic converter. It costs a lot to replace it, but there are no other alternatives, since many cars with a defective exhaust system automatically go into emergency mode, which implies a significant reduction in power.

Check Engine can be called by an electronic control unit responsible for executing programs that control fuel injection, air supply and other processes. The control unit fails extremely rarely, but its failure promises huge costs. The only way to reduce them is to find a qualified electrician who can study the device circuit in detail and spend hours searching for a failed miniature element. Such an operation will cost much less than a replacement, but there is no guarantee that the Check Engine lamp will not light up again soon.

Additional signals

If the Check Engine signal appeared while driving, it is very likely that this is due to a critical engine malfunction. Therefore, you should stop, but do not turn off the engine, and look carefully at the dashboard, where the rest of the control lamps are located. First of all, you will be interested in the temperature indicator, the operation of which most often leads to the appearance of the Check Engine signal. In a normal state, the temperature of the coolant in the engine should not exceed 85–95 degrees, since its boiling can lead to unpredictable consequences. On modern cars, when a critical level of heating is reached, a special lamp with a thermometer pictogram lights up - when such an alarm appears, you should drive at high speed with low engine speeds in order to create natural cooling of the power unit.

Some cars are also equipped with an oil pressure gauge with an individual dial - the Check Engine lamp often lights up when its arrow is in the red zone. In the absence of a dial, you should pay attention to the light bulb with the oiler icon, which lights up when the level of lubrication in the engine is excessively low. In such a case, turn off the engine, wait approximately 5-10 minutes and check the oil level using a special dipstick. If the Check Engine lamp lights up due to a lack of oil, you should add it or go to the nearest specialized store. Otherwise, the problem is a faulty oil pump, which may require serious repairs - it is not possible to solve such a problem on your own, and you need to move to the nearest service station.

There are also situations when the Check Engine lamp flashes - this can also apply to the automatic transmission indicator, if one is installed on the car. In most cases, this means that the fault lies in the electronic control unit. When the Check Engine signal is flashing, the machine often goes into emergency mode, independently limiting the speed and maximum engine speed. It is worth remembering one more signal given by the machine - if the Check Engine lamp lights up when the key is turned and goes out a few seconds later, this means that the control unit is conducting diagnostics, and there is no real danger threatening the motor.

Your actions

To fix the problem, you need to go to a specialized service station equipped with appropriate electronic equipment. After a brief diagnosis, the specialist will state the nature of the breakdown indicated by the Check Engine signal and determine the cost of the repair. In some cases, the diagnosis does not reveal any abnormalities, and after it is completed, the Check Engine lamp goes out on its own. Experts say that the fault of the false alarm is the accumulated errors caused by low-quality gasoline, impurities in the air, moisture on electrical components.

You can get rid of errors yourself, without using a diagnostic scanner. Experienced motorists who know how to remove the error are advised to unscrew the battery terminals for this and put them aside, preventing a short circuit. With the engine off, the car should be disconnected from the battery for approximately 10-20 minutes. If everything is done correctly, when connecting the terminals, you will see the clock reset to zero and the Check Engine light turned off. However, this can only solve the problem with accumulated errors - in case of more serious breakdowns, the Check Engine light will light up again within the first day of using the car.

When going to the service station, be sure to follow a car-friendly driving mode, since you cannot be sure why the Check Engine signal appeared. For this you need:

• Reduce speed to 60 km/h;
• Try not to exceed the speed level of 2500 rpm;
• Turn off the air conditioner and any additional equipment;
• Turn off the multimedia system and all currently unnecessary electrical appliances;
• Avoid abrupt starts and braking, high-speed cornering.

It is best to avoid driving at night, as the headlights put extra stress on the engine, but if there are no alternatives, take the appropriate precautions. Only when experts determine why the Check Engine light came on can you move on to a normal driving style.

No panic

If a Check Engine signal is detected, you should not panic, as the car may not require serious repairs. At first, it is worth trying to fix minor problems associated with improper installation of tank caps, wires and tubes on your own. If the Check Engine lamp continues to burn, the malfunction should be looked for deeper - in candles, a gasoline pump and high-voltage wires. In the absence of breakdowns in these components, it is worth considering the most important components of the car - the electronic control unit, ignition coils, catalytic converter. If you cannot find the problem yourself, and the Check Engine lamp continues to burn, you should contact a specialist who will computer diagnostics car.