The check engine light turning on in your BMW can be a source of anxiety and stress. However, it’s important to remember that the light is there to help you. It’s a warning that something is wrong with your vehicle and needs attention. Many drivers tend to ignore the warning light, but that can result in further damage and more expensive repairs down the road.
Check your gas cap
Believe it or not, a loose or faulty gas cap can cause the check engine light to come on. So, the first thing you should do is check your gas cap and make sure it’s tight and snug. If it’s loose, tighten it to the manufacturer’s specifications. If that’s not the issue and the light is still on, then move on to the next step.
Check for other warning lights
While the check engine light illuminating is the most common and important warning, you should also be on the lookout for other warning lights. If you see additional lights, this will give you an idea of what might be causing the check engine light to turn on. For instance, if the battery light is on, then the battery or charging system could be the culprit.
Get a diagnostic test
The next step you should take is to get a diagnostic test. With the help of a diagnostic tester, a technician can find the exact problem that’s causing the check engine light to turn on. BMWs have the capability to ‘self-diagnose’ some problems, which will display an error code on the screen. There are automotive shops and dealerships that will check your engine light for free. Several chains offer the service, including AutoZone, Pep Boys, Advance Auto Parts, and O’Reilly Auto Parts. They’ll scan the codes on your behalf and tell you the possible causes of the problems.
Don’t ignore it
It’s essential not to ignore or delay a check engine light because it could be a warning sign of an underlying problem. If you continue driving, it may lead to more severe problems, and fixing it might be more expensive. In the short term, ignoring the check engine light could cause vehicle performance issues, such as reduced fuel economy or engine damage.
Take care of the problem
Once you’ve identified the underlying issue, you can then have it resolved. You should have repairs done at your earliest convenience, so there are no further issues. Contact a BMW-certified technician, and have them fix the problem, no matter how small it may seem.
BMW Check Engine Light
The check engine light is there to protect you and your BMW. Don’t ignore the warning sign. Take care of the issue as soon as possible, so you don’t have any future problems with your car. Remember, it’s easier and typically less expensive to fix issues early before they become bigger problems. If you follow these steps and take your vehicle to a qualified BMW technician, you’ll be back on the road in no time. Stay alert, and always keep your car’s maintenance up-to-date.