Have you noticed an illuminated check engine light on your car’s dashboard?
This means that your car’s on-board sensors have detected a problem with one of your vehicle’s vital components.
You will need to take the vehicle to a garage to have the EML reset and the related issue resolved.
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What Is the Engine Management Light?
The engine management light (EML) on your car's dashboard is part of the onboard diagnostics system (OBD).
It monitors everything from engine performance to emissions control.
When the EML comes on, it is giving you a chance to fix potential problems before they turn into more significant, costly issues.
Engine Management Light Meaning
The engine management light will come on if there is a problem with the engine, exhaust or emissions system.
The EML light will not indicate a specific fault but can alert you that there is an issue which needs to be addressed.
The engine management light – which is shaped like the outline of an engine – can show up orange, red or flashing, depending on the severity of the problem.
Orange Engine Light
A steady orange engine light – which may look like a yellow engine light – usually suggests there is an issue with emissions.
This is the least severe type of engine warning light you might see.
If an orange engine light comes on, you should be able to finish your journey if your vehicle has power.
Even so, you should book a diagnostic check at a local garage as soon as you reach your destination.
Flashing Engine Light
A flashing orange EML is more serious than a steady orange EML.
This type of light may suggest there is a critical problem with the catalytic converter – or another vital component.
You should stop driving and contact a mechanic for help.
Red Engine Light
A steady red engine light indicates there is a critical issue with your car.
You should stop driving if you see this light and call your breakdown cover provider immediately.
Emission Control Light
Another related warning light to be aware of is the emission control light.
This light can suggest there is an issue with the emission control system – perhaps to do with the catalytic converter or exhaust gas recirculation (EGR).
Problems detected by the emissions control system can also trigger the engine management light to come on.
Engine Management Light Reset
To reset the engine management light, you must take your car to a garage.
The check engine light will not reset itself – a mechanic needs to diagnose and fix the fault for you.
Once the problem is resolved, the EML should turn off automatically.
If the light turns back on after the problem is fixed, you need to take it back to the garage.
Not least because an illuminated EML can result in MOT failure.
During a professional diagnostic check, a technician can use state-of-the-art equipment to scan your car’s ECU and find out which error code(s) it is reporting.
You will be provided with a quote for the repair, so that you can get your car back on the road as soon as possible.
