Check Engine Light — What It Means and Whether You Can Keep Driving
An orange engine light means the ECU has logged a fault. Sometimes it is minor, sometimes the start of something serious. We explain how to react.
4 min read · Pulsecar team · updated:
Solid vs flashing — a crucial difference
- On solid, car running normally — you can usually drive to a workshop without worry, but do not put off diagnostics.
- Flashing — most often means misfiring. Unburned fuel can damage the catalytic converter. Keep driving to a minimum.
- On solid, car losing power or going into limp mode — pull over safely and consult a mechanic.
Most common causes
- A faulty lambda sensor or another sensor (e.g. mass air flow, camshaft position).
- Misfiring: spark plugs, coils, injectors.
- A leak in the intake system, or a loose fuel filler cap.
- The EGR valve, DPF filter, catalytic converter.
- Timing system problems (camshaft correlation faults).
Why a fault code reading alone is not enough
A fault code points to the system that reported the problem, but not always to the exact faulty part. Replacing parts "based on the code" often ends with a perfectly good part being swapped out. That is why, after reading the codes, we also check the engine’s running parameters, wiring and power supply.
How much a computer diagnostic costs
At Pulsecar, a computer diagnostic costs 100 PLN. Afterwards you get a repair quote, which you approve before we start any work.