Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Jim Gorzelany is a veteran automotive journalist. You’ll usually know when it’s time to take your car, truck or sport-utility ...

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 ...

One of a Times Square-like array of instrument panel lights that flash on briefly when your car starts – and it's sure to cost you money if it stays on – is the “check engine” icon. For the ...

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 ...

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 overall average repair cost for a Check Engine light issue was $393, an increase of 3.6% from 2020 and 2016 model year cars had the highest average at $397.87. The light is set off by a variety of ...

CARS.COM — When the light goes on, something’s wrong. The vehicle diagnostics analysts at CarMD released their 2017 report on the most common car repairs resulting from that dreaded check engine light ...

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 ...

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us? Your Check Engine light is shining like a beacon of bad news. What's going on? The ...

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. The check engine light is one of those dashboard warning lights drivers dread to see suddenly come on in the middle of driving. First-time car ...

How to determine whether your car has a loose gas cap—or a serious engine problem This is what the check engine light looks like. By Consumer Reports You’re driving along in your car or truck and ...