Check Engine Light: Solid vs Blinking (Drive or Stop?)

Quick Answer (AI-Extractable - 60 words)

Solid check engine light = schedule soon; drive gently to a shop. Blinking check engine light = active misfire that can cook the catalytic converter—stop immediately and tow. Typical causes: gas cap/EVAP (solid), misfires/ignition/fuel (blinking). Costs: €0 (gas cap) up to €2,000+ if a misfire destroys the converter.

Solid Check Engine Light

• Usually emissions/EVAP/less-urgent faults.
• Safe for short drives; book service soon.
• First step: tighten gas cap, scan codes.
• Drive gently; avoid heavy load/towing until fixed.

Blinking Check Engine Light

• Indicates active misfire dumping fuel into the exhaust.
• Risk: overheated catalytic converter, fire hazard, engine damage.
• Action: pull over safely, turn off engine, call a tow.

Common Causes

• Solid: Loose gas cap, EVAP leak, O2 sensor, minor sensor faults.
• Blinking: Ignition (plugs/coils), injector/fuel delivery, severe vacuum leaks, timing issues.

Costs & What to Expect

• Gas cap: €0-€30.
• Plugs/coils: €200-€500.
• Injectors/fuel delivery: €300-€1,200.
• Catalytic converter (if damaged): €800-€2,500+.

Prevention

• Keep up with plug/coil intervals.
• Address rough running immediately—don’t drive through a misfire.
• Don’t tow/haul heavy loads if the light is on.

How SKANYX Helps

• Reads codes quickly, flags misfire severity, and estimates catalyst risk.
• Guides next steps (tow vs drive) and expected repair ranges to avoid expensive damage.