What kind of things are indicated by a check engine light?

Question

I have a 2001 Ford Explorer Sport and yesterday the check engine light came on when I started it after it sat in the parking lot at work all day. I've not had any trouble with this vehicle and don't notice anything wrong now regarding how it starts, idles, or drives. I don't know much about cars & can't imagine what would cause the light to come on when first cranked after sitting all day. It stayed on today as well and I'm worried that I will damage my vehicle if I drive it without getting it checked out but will not have the funds to do so for another week or so. I only have one vehicle and must drive to work (live in the country - no public transportation). I don't know if these lights indicate serious problems or usually minor things or what. I know you can't tell me what it is without knowing the code but I'd like to know the kinds of things indicated by these lights and the chances I will damage my vehicle if I drive it a little while before getting it checked out. Thanks!

Answer 1

various problems could exist.  my light was on and it was just dirty fuel injectors..you can go to auto zone or another auto parts store and most will diagnose it for free..they wont reset the light but you'll know whats going on

Answer 2

check and make sure your gas cap is on . most newer vehicles hen its not on will give you that warning because of the emissions system.and if this is the problem it may take an hour or so before it goes off. i panicked when it happened to me twice once when the gas cap was loose and again when it was worn out and needed to be replaced same year vehicle as yours bet its your problem

Answer 3

The check engine light can come on for the smallest things, for example: if the intake air temperature is too cold or too hot. Most of the time when your check engine light is on it is not a serious problem, but you should have it checked to be safe. Go to advance auto and they will diagnose it for free and even help you get what you need to fix the problem.

If your vehicle is running fine, drive it. It is probably a very minor sensor that triggered the light. Good luck!

Answer 4

this could be anything from a serious problem to just a loose wire or sensor malfunction. if it is running fine then it should be OK to drive for a while. get it checked out soon or you can even rent or borrow a code reader and get a diagnosis yourself. inquire at a local shop or 2 about doing this. some places will also diagnose a problem for free.

Answer 5

Due to the vast number of sensors that can trigger a check engine light it is impossible to say what is wrong (you're correct with that).  Usually it is a sensor that is malfunctioning that causes the light to turn on.  Unfortunately this can cause a variety of minor problems and a few major.  Most malfunctions mean onboard computer tries to compensate by altering some functions in the motor.  Not always though.

Best idea is to go to a garage and get them to check the codes and tell you what it is and if it is ok to drive for a bit with it.  While you're there you can also get an estimate for the repair.  It is better to know for sure the problem and be able to plan the repair rather than just worry about it.

Answer 6

money in the mechanics pocket