What does it mean when the malfunction indicator light comes on?

What does it mean when the malfunction indicator light comes on?

The check engine light — more formally known as the malfunction indicator lamp — is a signal from the car’s engine computer that something is wrong. If the light begins flashing, however, it indicates a more serious problem, such as a misfire that can quickly overheat the catalytic converter.

What does engine control malfunction mean?

A check engine light or malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), is a tell-tale that a computerized engine-management system uses to indicate a malfunction. This warning light can indicate almost anything from a loose gas cap to a serious knock in the engine.

Why is my check engine light on Dodge Caliber?

This indicator is part of the onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) system and in all cases it indicates a problem with your emissions system. Basically, it is an emissions monitoring system. A Check Engine indicator will stay solid or blink.

What do you do when your malfunction indicator light comes on?

It is a sign that your vehicle’s engine is misfiring. The issue is a major one and you should stop the engine immediately to prevent serious damage. For instance, it might cause the catalytic converter to overheat and even cause a fire.

How do you reset the gas light on a Dodge Caliber?

How to Reset the Warning Light Gas Cap That Is Loose or Missing

1. Turn off your vehicle’s engine.
2. Step to the gas cap door.
3. Replace the gas cap.
4. Close the gas cap door.
5. Use an OBD-II code scanner if the warning light does not disappear.
6. Continue driving the vehicle.

How do you reset a Dodge Caliber Computer?

To fix the Dodge Caliber throttle motor, you turn the vehicle on but do not start the engine. The accelerator pedal is fully depressed for 10 seconds. At this stage, the test engine light will shift to blink slowly, signaling “Erasing ECU Memory.” 8.

Why does my check engine light come on after I get gas?

There are many reasons your car’s check-engine light turns on after you fuel up. It could be a loose gas cap, a gasket gone bad on said gas cap, or a damaged vacuum hose, among others. If it detects a loss of pressure, the check-engine light will come on, indicating that there’s a problem.

Can a faulty gas cap cause engine light to come on?

Faulty gas cap – Your vehicle is pretty good at warning you of any potential trouble. Something as simple as forgetting to replace the gas cap could cause your “check engine” light to come on. This is because the gas cap keeps vapors from escaping the fuel tank.

What does the malfunction indicator light ( Mil ) mean?

The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is also known as the Check Engine Light. The purpose of this warning light is to indicate a detected problem with the car and alert the driver about the issue.

Are there any recalls on the Dodge Caliber?

When braking today the car continued to accelerate faster while the foot was on the brake. In researching this, it seems the Caliber specifically has a history of etc or electric throttle issues. Years affected by this safety issue include 2007 through 2012; but there is no official recall from Dodge.

Why does the indicator light keep coming on?

The most common case is when the indicator light stays on constantly. It indicates more serious problem that requires action to be taken; the sooner the better. Yet, sometimes the issues aren’t that serious but can affect the emissions of the vehicle, for example.

When does the OBD2 indicator light turn on?

The OBD2 system illuminates the light when there is a problem with the car’s engine, transmission or emission control system. The light turns on only for a reason and you should not ignore it.