What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?

Integrity Auto Care • 16 April 2025

Did you know that the computing power found in most new cars surpasses that of the Apollo 121 Lunar Module, which landed on the moon in 1969? These vehicles can be equipped with as many as 12 interconnected computers and more than five miles (eight kilometers) of wiring. In fact, for roughly the past decade, automotive computers have been responsible for managing about 85 percent of your vehicle's functions.


Car Sensor Facts

Modern cars come with sensors that monitor manifold air temperature, coolant temperature, manifold air pressure, airflow, throttle position, vehicle speed, and oxygen content. This array of electronic technology can be quite intricate. So, how do SOUTH BELOIT drivers know when something's amiss?


It's straightforward; the Check Engine light illuminates. The onboard computer keeps track of all sensors and uses that data to make adjustments like optimizing the fuel mixture, spark timing, and idle speed. Additionally, the computer self-monitors its circuits. If a fault is detected, it activates the Check Engine light and logs a trouble code within the system.


When the Check Engine light comes on, it can be quite alarming for SOUTH BELOIT drivers. We often question the severity of the issue. Typically, it’s not as critical as indicators for temperature or oil pressure, which signal immediate action is required. If the Check Engine light appears, it’s essential to visit Integrity Auto Care in SOUTH BELOIT at your earliest convenience to address the concern.


Check Engine Light Repair in South Beloit

Since 1996, the Check Engine diagnostic has incorporated a significant emissions control component. However, if your Check Engine light begins to flash, it indicates a more urgent issue, necessitating immediate attention to avoid potential damage. Drivers should reduce speed and refrain from towing or carrying heavy loads until the issue can be diagnosed.


At Integrity Auto Care, our friendly and knowledgeable technicians possess specialized diagnostic tools to retrieve the trouble code from the computer, helping to identify the issue. From there, we can resolve the problem and get you back on the road. Stop by our South Beloit auto shop for expert diagnostics check engine light diagnostics.