This article was co-authored by Matthew Rava and by wikiHow staff writer, Eric McClure. Matthew Rava is an Auto Repair Expert and the Co-founder & Head of Marketing of Brakes to You. He specializes in auto repairs that concern brakes. Matthew earned a BS from West Chester University of Pennsylvania.
There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.
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A flashing check engine light indicates that there may be a serious problem with your vehicle that requires immediate attention. If this indicator appears intermittently, it’s likely a sign that either a wire is damaged and it’s severing your vehicle’s ability to read key sensors, or there’s an underlying problem that may be on the verge of causing serious damage (but isn’t quite there yet). We’ll help you figure out what’s going on so that you can get the issue fixed.
Why Would a Check Engine Light Come On and Then Go Off?
A flashing check engine light that periodically disappears indicates a potentially serious problem with your car. It may be something minor, but it’s an issue that needs investigation fast. Often, this is a wiring problem, but it can also be triggered by a misfire problem or issues with your vehicle’s emissions system.
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References
- ↑ https://www.fluke.com/en-us/learn/blog/automotive/electrical-automotive-troubleshooting
- ↑ https://fredsautorepair.com/index.php/2019/07/15/your-check-engine-light-is-blinking-now-what
- ↑ https://www.carparts.com/blog/can-a-loose-gas-cap-turn-on-the-check-engine-light/
- ↑ https://www.carsdirect.com/car-repair/how-to-tell-if-you-have-a-faulty-mass-airflow-sensor
- ↑ https://www.cars.com/articles/what-does-a-cold-air-intake-do-and-is-it-worth-it-448150/
- ↑ https://www.kbb.com/service-repair-guide/car-thermostat-replacement-costs/
- ↑ https://www.nyvip.org/PublicSite/OBDII/evap.html#fuel-tank-c
- ↑ https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/catalytic-converter
- ↑ https://motorcompanyleicester.co.uk/what-are-the-symptoms-of-a-bad-engine-control-module/