One of the last things any driver likes to see is the check engine light — it’s an indicator that can mean one of many things. Sometimes, the problem can be minor, like a faulty spark plug. Other times, it can be a more serious warning that major car repair is necessary. No matter the cause, David’s Auto Repair in Brooklyn, NY, says it’s never a good idea to ignore it.

As an experienced, trusted auto body repair shop in Brooklyn, they have dealt with their fair share of check engine lights. While the indicator can point to numerous problems, it does mean an issue has triggered your car’s diagnostic computing system.

Does The Check Engine Light Always Mean You’ll Need Car Repairs?

There are a variety of problems associated with check engine lights, some of which may be easily fixed on your own. For example, one of the first things you should check when this light comes on is your gas cap. If it is damaged or loose, it could trigger the light. Some other common causes include faulty oxygen sensors, catalytic converter damage, and mass airflow sensor troubles — all problems that could affect the way your car processes fuel.

How Can I Tell If Car Repairs Are Needed?

If your car was made after 1996, its diagnostic system uses a standard set of codes to identify what triggered the light. If it was made before this year, it will be trickier to tell, as diagnostic systems were not standardized at this time.

Fortunately, any auto shop or car repair technician has a specialized tool that can read these codes and pinpoint the exact nature of the check engine light cause. While there are many do-it-yourself code readers on the market, some of them may not be as accurate as you need them to be. However, having one on hand isn’t a bad idea, as it can help you have some knowledge to compare with your mechanic of choice.

Should I Make Car Repairs Myself?

While checking your car’s check engine light codes is fairly simple, the repairs necessary to fix it may not be as easy. That’s why it’s recommended that you always bring your vehicle to a car maintenance specialist if you’ve been surprised by a check engine light. These professionals not only know how to accurately read codes, but they also provide the best repairs to resolve the issue.

If you’re dealing with a check engine light in Brooklyn, David’s Auto Repair will pinpoint the issue for you and offer repairs on all makes and models. Call (718) 383-4808 to schedule an appointment or learn more about their expansive car maintenance and repair services online.