Ignoring a check engine light can lead to more expensive repairs, decreased fuel efficiency, and may cause a vehicle to fail an emissions test.

When the check engine light comes on in a vehicle, it’s indicating that there is some issue with the car that should be checked out. It could be something minor, such as the gas cap not being screwed ...

When your vehicle's check engine light (CEL) comes on, it's often a sign that something needs attention. But with over 20,000 parts working together in your car — many important for normal operation — ...

For most drivers, an oil change is a quick, hassle-free service that typically puts you out no longer than an hour and costs you (give or take) a hundred bucks. But even if you're perfectly on top of ...

When the check-engine light snaps on, it is not a suggestion, it is your car’s way of saying something in the powertrain or emissions system needs attention. I see it as an early warning system that ...

The owner of this 2020 Audi S6 took his car to a dealership, but the technicians failed to figure out what was really wrong ...

The costs of buying a new or used car have climbed in recent years, and so has the average repair bill. If a vehicle purchase or major repair isn’t in the cards (or budget), maintaining the health of ...

The average age of all vehicles on the road is rising, as are their ensuing repair costs. Today’s cars, trucks and SUVs are loaded with technology, none the least of which is an onboard diagnostic ...

The check engine light has always been a bit of a gamble. Sometimes it’s a loose gas cap. Other times, it’s a four-figure ...

Today’s cars and trucks are literally rolling test beds of technology, which has tended to make the days of the so-called shade tree mechanic and eyeball diagnoses of what ails a given model a distant ...

Why it matters: Ignoring a check engine light can turn minor issues into costly repairs. Early, accurate diagnosis prevents damage and downtime. Tools you need: An OBD-II scanner, access to repair ...