Posted on 11/28/2025
A check engine light during a drive can be unnerving. Sometimes it is safe to continue calmly to your destination. Other times you should pull over before minor trouble becomes expensive damage. Use this quick guide to make the right call in the moment and to protect your engine and catalytic converter. Step One: Decide What the Light Is Telling You There are two basic behaviors. A steady light usually means the computer has detected a fault that affects emissions, but the car may still drive normally. A flashing light warns of an active misfire that can overheat and melt the catalytic converter. Treat a flashing light as urgent, even if power feels normal. What To Do in the Next 60 Seconds Ease off the throttle and keep engine speed moderate. Turn off nonessential electrical loads like rear defogger and seat heaters. Watch the temperature gauge and oil pressure warning. Note any new symptoms: rough idle, hesitation, unusual smells, or smoke. C ... read more