Neither black tape nor a magic marker is the solution when your car or truck's check-engine light comes on. When the light, which is shaped like the outline of an engine, illuminates, do not panic!

When the check engine light comes on in a vehicle, it’s indicating that there is some issue with the car that should be checked out. It could be something minor, such as the gas cap not being screwed ...

Although commonly referred to as the “check-engine light,” some cars may instead display the message “Service Engine Soon,” or show a yellow or orange outline of an engine, perhaps with the word ...

Three of the main reasons the check engine light or malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) turns on are: a loose fuel cap, issues with the ignition system, and problems with the emissions system. Many ...

Onboard diagnostics (OBD) systems have been around since the 1980s and were developed to help limit harmful automotive exhaust emissions. Between 1988 and 1995, U.S.-built vehicles came with what's ...

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. The check engine light is one of those dashboard warning lights drivers dread to see suddenly come on in the middle of driving. First-time car ...

Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. You’re driving along in your car or truck and suddenly a yellow light illuminates on your dash telling you to check or ...

When the dreaded malfunction indicator light turns on, it’s not the end of the world. Here’s how to cope with an MIL! Whether you know a lot about cars or nothing about them, it's never fun to see the ...

You’re driving along in your car or truck and suddenly a yellow light illuminates on your dash telling you to check or service your engine. If you’re like most car owners, you have little idea about ...

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us? Your Check Engine light is shining like a beacon of bad news. What's going on? The ...