Check Engine Light (Steady)
Schedule a Visit — Urgency 3/5You can usually keep driving with a steady check engine light, but try to avoid long trips or heavy motorway driving until you have had it checked. Drive gently and pay attention to any unusual sounds, smells, or changes in how the car feels. If anything seems off, pull over safely. Remember, this is general guidance — your mechanic can give you advice specific to your car.
This is general guidance. Your situation may differ — when in doubt, don’t drive.
What does this mean?
This is the light most people dread — but a steady check engine light usually means something is not quite right, not that your car is about to break down. It could be something as simple as a loose fuel cap or a sensor that needs replacing. Your car is trying to tell you it noticed something unusual.
What should I do right now?
First, check your fuel cap — make sure it is on tight and you hear it click. If the light stays on after that, it is a good idea to book an appointment with your mechanic in the next week or two. They will plug in a little computer that reads the code your car stored and tells them exactly what triggered the light.