If you've asked yourself recently, “Why is my check engine light on or flashing?”, there are a few reasons why this might be. Your check engine light is one of the lights on your dashboard, designed to alert you about potential service needs for your engine and its many components.

Generally speaking, your check engine light may turn on due to several reasons, and here are some of the most common:

• Loose gas cap: Did you fuel up at the pump only for your check engine light to turn on as you drive away? A loose gas cap is the likely culprit.
• Internal engine problems: Your vehicle's engine is the heart of its power and performance. Sometimes, the check engine light might signal that your engine is simply reminding you to give it some extra TLC.
• Spark plug: Ah, the spark plug – a tiny but mighty component in your vehicle's engine. Sometimes, your check engine light might illuminate if the spark plugs, their wires, or the ignition coils need replacing.
• Oxygen or mass airflow sensor: Your car's oxygen and mass airflow sensors are like its very own personal health trackers, constantly monitoring and adjusting to ensure optimal performance. So, when your check engine light flickers on due to sensor issues, it's simply your car's way of saying, "Let's keep things running smoothly."

Now, what about if your check engine light is flashing? This might indicate an issue with one of your car’s critical systems, such as the internal engine, fuel system, and other components.

So, what should you do if you notice that your check engine light has turned on? If you believe it may be a loose gas cap, as we discussed earlier, we recommend pulling over into a nearby parking lot or somewhere safe. Then, you can get out and confirm the gas cap is on as it should be.

If you think it may be one of the other reasons we mentioned, we recommend reducing power and driving as safely as possible to your destination. You can then schedule an appointment with a local service center to get your car checked out.

If your check engine light is flashing, however, you should get help as soon as you possibly can. It indicates a more significant system issue. Pull over where it's safe and call someone you trust to help you.