If I keep driving my car with the "Check Engine Light" on, what problems can occur?

Answer 1

If you don't know whats wrong with it, you definitely need to know because often if you blow a gasket it is cheaper too get a new car than to fix the old one.
If you already know what's wrong, and it is something minor but expensive to fix, you will be taking a calculated risk to let it go. For example, I had a '98 Buick LeSabre where the "check engine" light stayed on all the time. I took the car to a mechanic who ran a diagnostic for about $30 to find out what error code in the computer was turning the light on.
Turns out, my problem was related to a minor system that captures gas fumes in the tank rather than releasing them when you unscrew the cap. Having tried the simple stuff, the only way to get the light off would have been my mechanic dropping the tank and doing all kinds of expensive work.
I chose not to do that, and drove the car for 1 1/2 years with the light on. I knew why the light was on, and decided to take the risk.
At the end of the 1 1/2 years, my gamble got the best of me. On a long trip, my engine began overheating, but because the "check engine" light was already on, I had no idea. By the time a second light came on, I was losing speed despite the fact that I was in cruise.
I pulled over, but it was too late. I blew a gasket, and sold the car, that had been worth about $2000, for $200. I was lucky to get that.
If the check engine light had come on to warn me, I probably would not have blown up the engine.

Answer 2

It is hard to tell what exactly will be the problem with the check engine light, but it would be wise to take it to any independant auto mechanic to let them put it on a OBD scanner (your car's computer will pinpoint the problem). Do this as soon as possible since it could be anything from a simple sensor to a clogged muffler or failing transmission.

Answer 3

Your battery connections might be dirty so your battery isn't recharging properly; your vehicles memory may not be getting enough electricity to keep your fuel injection system working correctly; your oil filter and oil might need changing; your radiator fluid might be low, and your water pump might be failing, your spark plugs could be worn out and an your O2 sensor failing; your fan belts might be slipping and need a replacement.

Your vehicle may be due for a minor maintenance work over and if you keep driving it with the little red light on one day you will need a major repair job, which you could have avoided if you had just gotten it in for a minor maintenance work over.

Answer 4

I won't discourage you from checking it at autozone, but do not (i repeat) DO NOT take what they say as law and buy the respective parts.

a.) they have an interest in selling you more parts

b.) they really don't know how to use those OBD scanners, nor do they keep them up to date(they require updated chips every few months). I have never seen an autozone properly diagnose a problem with one of their scanners.

it would still be a good idea to have them scan it, because it will give you a general idea before you talk to a mechanic. But please PLEASE have a mechanic diagnose it before you spend any money.

Answer 5

it could be something as simple as a loose gas tank cap, or something as serious as a water jacket or oil pump, which would mean major engine repairs. Check right away!

Answer 6

Run by autozone or other parts store.. They will check it for free.

Answer 7

You will never find out what is malfunctioning.