As a general rule of thumb, modern vehicles are far safer and more reliable than vehicles of the past, thanks in large parts to high levels of innovation and optimization. However, this isn’t to say ...

Three of the main reasons the check engine light or malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) turns on are: a loose fuel cap, issues with the ignition system, and problems with the emissions system. Many ...

Whether it’s traveling to work, getting your kids to school or heading to an important appointment, your car is a necessity — not a luxury. So it’s scary to see your check engine light come on or hear ...

Part of the frustration of a check engine light is that it’s just so vague. It can signal anything from a looming powertrain ...

When the check engine light comes on in a vehicle, it’s indicating that there is some issue with the car that should be checked out. It could be something minor, such as the gas cap not being screwed ...

The costs of buying a new or used car have climbed in recent years, and so has the average repair bill. If a vehicle purchase or major repair isn’t in the cards (or budget), maintaining the health of ...

Ignoring a check engine light might feel harmless if the car still runs smoothly, but the warning signals more than a minor inconvenience. Driving with that light on can lead to higher repair costs, ...

When your vehicle's check engine light (CEL) comes on, it's often a sign that something needs attention. But with over 20,000 parts working together in your car — many important for normal operation — ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Jim Gorzelany is a veteran automotive journalist. With both new-car prices and fuel costs on the rise, today’s motorists are ...

While your car can’t talk, it communicates with you using chimes, icons, and messages. One icon that you should never ignore is the check engine light. It turns on when the car’s onboard computer ...