check engine light
Car's diagnostic alert
A check engine light is a warning indicator on a vehicle's dashboard that illuminates when the car's computer detects a problem with the engine, emissions system, or related components.
The light can signal anything from a loose gas cap to serious engine trouble.
My check engine light came on, so I took it to the mechanic.
Also called a malfunction indicator light.
- dashboardVehicle control panel
- warningAlert about danger
- malfunctionFailure to operate properly
- diagnosticTest to identify problems
- fault codeLogged malfunction indicator
mechanic · auto shop · OBD · sensor · yellow · amber · glowing · anxiety · car trouble · repair · garage · ignition · emissions · code · scanner · misfire · catalytic · converter
- car troublesflat tire, dead battery, breakdown, overheating, stalling
- safety alertswarning sign, caution sign, danger sign, hazard sign, fire alarm
- travel troublesgetting lost, dead end, detour, flat tire, traffic jam
- vehicle lightsheadlamps, taillights, fog lamps, high beam, high beams
- auto caretire rotation, oil change, wheel alignment, transmission repair, exhaust system
- car partssteering wheel, brake, seats, tires, brakes