Why is my Check Engine Light on after Oil change?
Following an oil change, the oil dipstick may not be securely positioned because of frequent removal.
This oversight permits unmeasured air to enter the engine, leading to incorrect computer readings and the activation of the check engine indicator.
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What is the Significance of the Check Engine Light?
The check engine light, often known as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), is a warning signal sent by the vehicle’s engine computer to alert you to a potential issue.
Additionally, the check engine light is an integral component of your car’s onboard diagnostics system.
Consequently, when the system determines that it cannot rectify the problem autonomously, it activates the check engine light.
What Does the Check Engine Light Appear Like?
The appearance of a check engine light can vary between yellow, orange, or amber, depending on the car’s manufacturer.
However, when it starts to flash rather than remaining steadily lit, this signifies a more critical problem.
This issue might involve a misfire that has the potential to rapidly overheat the catalytic converter.
How to Resolve the Issue?
Follow these straightforward steps to deactivate the check engine light:
Step 1: Low Oil Pressure Commence by starting your vehicle and allowing it to run for a few minutes, giving the new oil a chance to circulate throughout the engine. If low oil pressure was the cause, this action should promptly resolve the check engine light.
Step 2: Improperly Seated Dipstick To address this, open the car’s hood, locate the dipstick, and confirm that the tube is clear of obstructions. Once verified, firmly reinsert the dipstick to ensure it is properly seated.
Step 3: Excessive Oil In cases of oil overfill, you can rectify the situation by using a suction pump to remove the surplus oil. Pop the hood and decide whether you want to extract the oil through the dipstick tube or the cap access point, choosing between manual or automatic pump options.
Step 4: Misaligned Gas Cap Attempt to extinguish the check engine light by removing and correctly tightening the gas cap. The specific orientation may vary from one vehicle to another, with some requiring the cap’s writing to face you.
Step 5: Incorrect Oil Type Address this issue by draining the vehicle’s oil, replacing the oil filter, and refilling it with the appropriate oil type.
How to Clear the Check Engine Light
Following an Oil Change To reset the check engine light after performing an oil change, you can follow these steps:
Required Tools and Equipment You won’t need to invest much in essential tools: an Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) reader, like the Kobra OBD scanner, and a wrench. This OBD reader will assist in reading and clearing engine codes.
Step 1: Locate the Port Typically, you can find the OBD reader port beneath the dashboard, just above the area where your feet are positioned. Sometimes, you may need to remove a fuse box door to access it.
Step 2: Connect the Reader Once connected, press the “enter” button to activate the device.
Step 3: Await Error Codes Allow the device to scan your engine for error codes. Once the analysis is complete, you’ll see all error codes displayed on the screen. Make note of the codes you wish to check online or against the manual.
Step 4: Clear the Code Use the scroll button to highlight the code and then press “enter” again to delete it. This action should reset your check engine light.
Step 5: Restart Your Vehicle If the light doesn’t immediately go off, restart your car to allow all systems to reboot.
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DIY or Professional Mechanic
Which is the Right Choice?
Auto repairs can be costly, and haphazard tinkering might lead to future complications.
Generally, if your check engine light remains illuminated following an oil change.
There’s no need for excessive worry since it’s often a straightforward issue.
Frequently asked Questions
If not, it’s advisable to consult a skilled mechanic for assistance.
Is it typical for the check engine light to activate following an oil change?
How soon can you expect the check engine light to turn off after an oil change?
Could excessive oil filling trigger the check engine light?
What are the steps to clear or reset the check engine light?