What does the check engine light mean?
The check engine light, or malfunction indicator lamp, comes on when onboard diagnostics detect a condition that meets the warning criteria. What you do next depends on the light and the way the car runs.
Watch the light.
Compare a steady, flashing or off signal in this example. The instructions for your exact car are in the owner’s manual.
Read the flashing-light guideCheck your owner’s manual and arrange a scan. If the car runs badly, pull over safely.
Three signals to check.
Pull over safely.
Ease off the accelerator and follow the owner’s manual. If the light keeps flashing or the car runs badly, arrange roadside assistance.
Flashing-light stepsArrange a scan.
Read the owner’s manual and get the code soon. Pull over safely if the car feels unsafe, overheats or shows another critical warning.
Read a scanKeep the details.
Write down when the light appeared and what the engine was doing. Code history or a pending code can still be useful.
Read code statusesSources include EPA on-board diagnostics and Honda Civic owner’s manual example.