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.

Related

mechanic · auto shop · OBD · sensor · yellow · amber · glowing · anxiety · car trouble · repair · garage · ignition · emissions · code · scanner · misfire · catalytic · converter

Categories
Opposites
vehicle operational status indication

check engine lightgreen light

Authorization to proceed

clean bill of health · all systems go

driver emotional response

check engine lightpeace of mind

State without anxiety

smooth sailing

vehicle warning status

check engine lightall clear

Signal danger has passed

oil lamp

Family

check, engine, light, checks, checked, checking, checker, checkers, engines

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated G