It is bound to happen at some point. You’re driving down the road and a little light starts flashing near your speedometer. It’s your “Check Engine Light.”

The engine light is a warning indicator that works with your car or truck’s computer. If your check engine light goes off, it means that a part or component in your vehicle’s emission system is not properly working.

The items below are some of the most common check engine light problems.

The Light Keeps Blinking: If the check engine light on your car or truck keeps blinking, this is a serious problem. This means there is a big problem with your car or truck’s emission system. Immediately pull your vehicle over and have it towed to a mechanic.

The Light Stays On: If the check engine light stays on and doesn’t blink, there is not an immediate threat to your vehicle. Your vehicle will continue to operate. However, you should take your car or truck to a mechanic as soon as you can to see what is wrong. If the check engine light stays on, it means there is a problem with the emissions system. A diagnostic test from a mechanic will help answer the problem.

The Light Is On Sometimes and Sometimes Off: If your check engine light remains sometimes on and sometimes off, take the time to see if your vehicle runs differently when the light is on. If you notice a change in performance when the light is on, you should take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can.

These are some of the most common check engine light signals. Always be sure to check your owner’s manual for more information about any diagnostic lights on your car or truck. If you have a check engine light on in your car or truck, be sure to have it checked out during your next Las Cruces car tune up or your next El Paso oil change.