check engine light: safe to drive for days if it runs fine, or should I scan?

[Ethan68]

My check engine light came on this morning, but the car seems to be driving completely normally. Is it ever okay to drive it for a few days like this to see if it goes off, or should I get it scanned immediately?

[Jerry4]

A steady check engine light isn't nothing. Tighten the gas cap first and see if it goes off after a drive or two.

[BrianL]

Blinking usually means something urgent like a misfire or catalytic problem, so stop driving and get it towed if it won’t reset. If the light is steady, start by tightening the gas cap and checking for loose connections, then plan a quick code read within the next day or two.

[Sofia35]

Steady lights are usually a symptom you can monitor but don't assume it's nothing. A simple home check is to tighten the gas cap and see if the light goes away after a few driving cycles. If it does you might have a gas cap issue. If it doesn't, pull codes with an OBD2 scanner or have a mechanic scan it. The cost to fix depends on what the code is. Some fixes are tiny like a gas cap replacement others more involved like sensors or an ignition coil. If you're unsure or the car behaves oddly visit a mechanic sooner rather than later to avoid bigger problems.

[Scott51]

CEL can hide a lot The light comes on when the ECU detects a fault in the engine emissions or fuel system If you're not seeing obvious issues start with the gas cap check A loose cap is a common cause and cheap to fix Then use an OBD2 scanner to pull codes You can often get a free diagnostic at a parts store and the code will point you to the trouble area Common codes point to misfires sensors or exhaust problems The price to fix varies A gas cap issue may be under fifty dollars A sensor can be a few hundred The catalytic converter is pricey If the light is steady you may still drive but keep it gentle and plan a visit to a shop as soon as convenient If the light is blinking stop immediately and seek help The main point is to avoid ignoring it and to get a clear read of the fault The scan is cheap and it tells you if you should worry and what the cost to fix might be