Glossary / General

check engine lights

13 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

The check engine light is a warning that something might be wrong with the car’s computer or engine systems. If it’s off, that’s a good sign, but it can still be worth checking the stored codes just in case.

Technical Definition

A check engine light is the dashboard warning that the car’s engine management system has detected a fault. When it’s off, it usually means no active trouble codes are currently stored, but it doesn’t always guarantee the car is problem-free.

Hear It Discussed

"If we're going down that road that we think that's what it is, assuming you don't have any other check engine lights..."
Guys Giving Free Car Advice Over The Air You Can Call Too Under The Hood show 32:23

"...the cause of engine lights coming on and what it cost to repair those items. Some eye-opening numbers there. The top 10 things that cause check engine lights to go off."
Car Pro Radio Show April 25 26 Hour 2 CarPro Radio Show 27:32

"It's like a dozen little check engine lights that are flashing off and on telling you there's a problem ahead."
Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - April 4, 2026 - Hour 2 - The Right To Repair Ron Ananian The Car Doctor 19:09