Check engine light appears when parking, and smoke from engine?

Question

While trying to park my 1992 Honda Civic (I'm still a beginner so it takes some time for me to get it right), I switch from reverse to drive, back and forth, often. Many times, while moving from R to D4, I get the check engine light. Today, the light came on again and I noticed there was smoke coming from the engine. Could it be that the car was overheated (I'm not even sure what that means)? It was a pretty warm (11 degrees celcius) but rainy night, and I had to put the defroster because there was steam and I couldn't see a thing. I also had the radio and windshield wipers on, if that's relevant. By the way, I got out of the car and smelled the smoke, it had a slight odor, hard to describe, but definitely not burnt or gas. Why does the check engine light come up only when I'm parking? And what does the smoke mean? Is it dangerous?

Yes!!! I didn't think this could be of any importance, but there is indeed a hole in the anti-freeze tube (under the hood, of course). When I spray, a few drops leak from the hole, I guess they perhaps touch the engine? Not sure...wow you guys are impressive.

I'm sorry I might sound super stupid to you, but I'm a new driver, little experience. About the coolant, I know that there is NO air conditionner coolant, that I need to refill it (A/C not functionning for that reason). Are we talking about the same thing? I dont see how the A/C coolant can affect the car on a rainy day...the defroster & heater work perfectly fine.

Answer 1

Is it smoke or steam? With the engine off and cold please check all essential fluids.Engine oil,Antifreeze,transmission fluid(if automatic).
If the engine is over-heating or running hot you may be low on antifreeze in the radiator.If you have alot of steam on the inside of the windshield you may have a blown "heater core",busted hose or the like.If you are losing antifreeze and smell a "sweet" smell inside the car,discontinue driving and make repairs.If you only smell it outside the car,check for a leaking water pump or blown radiator or heater hose.Look for wetness around the pump.Also check the fan belt for proper tension.
Long term exposure to ethylene glycol (antifreeze) steam can be hazardous to your health.
The "check engine" light most likely comes on after you stop because there is no air movement through the radiator to help cool the engine.Therefore it over-heats in park making the light come on.
Another possibility if its smoke and not steam is engine oil leaking onto the exhaust manifold and burning off.

Answer 2

Chances are that the "smoke" is steam. It probably smelled slightly sweet and sickly.
Check the car for coolant leaks.
As for the "Check Engine" light, there are a variety of causes for this at idle.
When you have the leak checked, ask that the cause be investigated as well.
There isn't any danger of the car burning up, but it could overheat enough to cause major engine damage. The light is indicating that there is a fault present, and it can only get worse.

Answer 3

Sounds like its leaking antifreeze from somewhere. Check coolant. If it is low a lot of times it will trigger the check engine light. If there was steam inside of your cab it could be that your heater core is leaking and needs to be replaced. check for spilled antifreeze on the floor of your car. Put car on diagnostic machine if you can. The machine might give you a little insight to what the problem is. Good luck.

Answer 4

i own a repair shop and the smell you did smell coming from it might have been burnt anti freeze ,and it may have got a little hot ,and the cause of this would be probably from a cooling fan not coming on ,or the thermostat may not have opened up when it should have, taking a long time parking it wont have any affect on it if if everything is working alright on it,so i would have it checked out if i was you,it could be the beginning of a much bigger problem with it,and i wouldn't let it go too much longer ,have it checked just to be on the safe side,good luck hope this helps.

Answer 5

Many car owners know very little about their engine and why certain components have a great importance to keep your car running smoothly. Your radiator is one such essential component. It is an integral part of the cooling system which prevents the engine from becoming overheated. To ensure that the engine does not develop excess heat, your radiator should be given a little attention and care.

The Importance of Repairs:

Car engines are prone to creating heat. This is due to the friction of the moving parts of the engine. Your radiator provides protection for the engine by maintaining a steady temperature for the lubricant and supplying water or coolant to ensure the engine is kept from overheating. If your radiator becomes damaged and fails to function, the whole engine is at risk of overheating and ceasing to function.

Car radiators are generally quite vulnerable to developing leaks or clogs. This risk can be minimised with regular inspections and cleaning. If you notice any signs of damage, it is essential that you immediately conduct radiator repairs. Perth technicians have a great deal of experience repairing radiators and if the damage is detected early, it is usually unnecessary to have to replace the whole radiator.

Radiator Inspections:

If you suspect you have an issue which needs radiator repairs, Perth technicians will usually assess the condition of the whole radiator. Reputable auto service companies will generally check the radiator for signs of any leaking or clogging which may have compromised the function of the radiator. They will also conduct a pressure test to ensure that the thermostat is functioning correctly. A complete inspection will also usually involve checking the pressure cap to confirm that all aspects of the cooling system are in good condition.

Who Can Conduct Radiator Repairs:

Not all mechanics have the skills and knowledge to repair your radiator. If possible, ask family and friends for any recommendations for auto servicing. Alternatively, take a little time to research your potential servicing company. There is a wide range of online resources available which provide customer feedback and reviews for all types of servicing. Reputable auto servicing companies are also happy to take the time to discuss your concerns and explain the details of any faults found.

Unless you are a very confident DIY mechanic, many aspects of servicing and repair can be a little overwhelming. However, by neglecting radiator repairs Perth motorists run the risk of breakdown and damage to their engine. It is sensible to periodically have your radiator checked. If you notice any fluid leaks, steam or overheating that you not wait until your annual service and get an expert opinion on the condition of your radiator.

If you are interested in learning more about auto servicing, or need assistance with radiator repairs perth then Perth residents should contact us. We have significant experience and expertise in all aspects of auto servicing including radiator repairs. We would be delighted to be of assistance and help you to keep your car running in great condition.
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Answer 6

1) Your electric radiator fan is not turning on.

2) Your coolant/antifreeze is low.

You should check the radiator and overflow tank in the morning when the engine has cooled down, and top it off.