What to Do When Your Check Engine Light After Oil Change? It can be a confusing and stressful situation. You may be wondering why the light came on in the first place, what it means, and how to reset it. If your car is displaying a check engine light after you’ve had an oil change, it may be due to several possible causes.
How To Reset Check Engine Light After Oil Change? Driving with a blinking check engine light can cause significant damage to your car if not taken care of quickly and correctly. To help ensure the performance of your vehicle and keep you safe on the road, here is a simple guide from Rich’s Auto Body Shop that will explain the possible cause of the problem, how to diagnose it further, and how to reset the check engine light should it linger after correcting any issues.
The purpose of the check engine light is to alert drivers when their car’s engine and emissions system malfunctions. A quick glance at your dash is all it takes for you to know that your car could need attention, so it is best for drivers to pay attention when this light appears. Many times, the light may be triggered by something minor and easy to fix such as a loose fuel cap. Other times, however, there may be an issue that needs further investigation.
It is important to take your vehicle to a certified mechanic if the check engine light comes on in order to determine what repairs may need to be done. Ignoring this warning could lead to decreased performance, costly repairs, and danger for both yourself and other people sharing the road with you.
Once the issue has been correctly identified, you may be able to reset the check engine light manually or with the help of a certified mechanic. In some cases, however, if the problem isn’t fixed and care isn’t taken to immediately address it, your car might refuse to start until a proper repair is made.
How Does the Check Engine Light Look?
The check engine light looks different depending on the make and model of your car, but it will usually be either a yellow or red color. Keep in mind that some vehicles may also have a separate service light, so you should know what to look for when trying to identify which one is illuminated. The check engine light is an essential safety and health indicator in most vehicles. This small, yet powerful little icon typically looks like a car engine with the word ‘check’ written inside.
Its illuminated presence signifies that something may be amiss in your vehicle and should be addressed as soon as possible – either through self-diagnosis or a trip to the mechanic. Without it, you could be driving without knowing the immediate state of your engine, putting both yourself and others at risk. Make sure you stay on top of any potential motor issues by knowing what the check engine light looks like and how to reset it when necessary.
Can an oil change cause a check engine light?
Although regularly scheduled oil changes are essential for car maintenance, they can also occasionally trigger a check engine light. This warning may indicate that the technician overfilled the oil or left dirt and debris in the engine, resulting in it being unable to cycle as efficiently as intended. The good news is that while these cases do happen, most times it’s likely an issue with faulty wiring or an unrelated loose component.
To be sure, a qualified technician should be consulted who can use government-mandated diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause of the warning. By addressing these issues quickly, you can save yourself time and money down the road. Another common cause of a check engine light occurring after an oil change is if the technician failed to tighten the oil filter properly. This can result in a leak and will require another visit to your mechanic for repairs.
Why did the check engine light after the oil change?
When the check engine light appears, it’s often a sign of trouble. But don’t panic: sometimes, a check engine light can appear after an oil change due to pressure sensor changes or loose emissions-related components. Knowing why the check engine light may have come on can help you make sure your vehicle is running optimally and maintain its longevity for years to come.
Pressure Sensor Changes
The pressure sensor in the car can detect changes when the oil is drained and replaced. This causes the light to come on as a reminder to re-run the vehicle’s diagnostic test to make sure everything is functioning properly. All in all, this simple check contributes significantly to your car’s maintenance, ensuring that any potential issues are caught early on and promptly addressed.
Loose emissions are one of the many reasons why the check engine light turns on after an oil change. It is important to maintain a car’s emissions to adhere to EPA regulations and prevent premature damage. This means tightening any connected parts, double-checking for leaks, as well as inspecting all emission components such as hoses, valves, and couplings in order to prevent any major issues.
Too Much Oil
Too much oil in an engine can cause a wide array of problems; if there is too much oil, it can lead to a high-pressure build-up within the crankcase. This pressure build-up can force oil to flow through the valves and out into the combustion chamber, which can set off the check engine light.
Too Little Oil
When it comes to oil changes, ensuring that the right amount of oil is used is critical. If too little oil is added during an oil change, then the check engine light may be triggered afterward. This is because the oil acts as a lubricant for all of the components in order to keep them functioning properly, and too little causes a lack of lubrication.
Using the Wrong Oil
Using the wrong type of oil can cause a variety of problems and one of these can be lighting up the ‘check engine’ light on your vehicle dashboard. The wrong oil may not provide enough lubrication, causing friction and wear on engine parts and this could trigger a check engine code. If using a type of oil that contains additives, these compounds may not be appropriate for particular engines, leading to unclean burning that produces higher emissions, or they may react with other areas in the engine preventing it from working as efficiently as it should.
The dipstick is Not Fully Seated
One reason this might occur is if the dipstick is not fully seated in its tube after being checked. It may sound like an insignificant issue, but the dipstick must fit snugly within its slot in order for oil levels to be accurately read. When it is not properly secured, oil can enter parts of the engine where it doesn’t belong and trigger an engine warning light.
One of the common culprits behind this issue is a gas cap that is crooked or affixed to the tank backward. If your check engine light is illuminated after your oil change, it is recommended to inspect the gas cap immediately and ensure it’s securely fastened and oriented properly. A misaligned gas cap can lead to a breakdown in fuel system pressure and result in an internal escape of vapors, thus triggering the check engine light.
Faulty Oxygen Sensor
A faulty oxygen sensor can be one of the key culprits behind why your check engine light appears after an oil change. Such a malfunctioning part of your vehicle has potentially severe implications, as it could lead to poor fuel economy and higher emissions when left unrepaired.
Malfunctioning Airflow Sensor
Malfunctioning airflow sensors can lead to a check engine light even after an oil change. Airflow sensors measure the amount of air entering a car’s engine, and this information helps to control the fuel mixture. If the sensor is not working properly, it can cause the car to run rough or stall which will automatically trigger the check engine light.
Faulty Catalytic Converter
One of the chief reasons why a check engine light may come on after an oil change is due to a faulty catalytic converter. This essential component can help reduce emissions and improve fuel economy, however when it fails, it can lead to expensive repair bills and create more pollution. In fact, even small issues with the catalytic converter can cause a noticeable decline in vehicle performance.
Old Spark Plugs and Faulty Ignition Coil
Old spark plugs and a faulty ignition coil are common causes of the check engine light turning on after an oil change. Spark plugs become corroded over time, leading to them firing irregularly, or not at all. In addition, an ignition coil weakens over time due to its exposure to engine heat and vibrations.
The exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve Needs Cleaning or Replacing
One possible culprit could be a dirty or malfunctioning exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve. This component plays an important role in controlling emissions, therefore when it’s clogged with soot or blocked, it can trigger the check engine light to come on after an oil change.
The engine Coolant Thermostat Needs to be replaced
One of the leading causes of a check engine light activating after an oil change is a faulty engine coolant thermostat. Thermostats are responsible for regulating the temperature in the car, and when they become worn down or damaged, they can cause your vehicle to overheat which triggers a warning light.
By understanding why the check engine light may have come on after an oil change, you can much better monitor your car’s performance and help keep it running smoothly. By making sure all components are tightened correctly, that the right amount of oil has been added, and that no other issues arise, your vehicle should stay functioning properly for many years to come.
What To Do When The Check Engine Light Comes On After An Oil Change?
If your check engine light has come on after an oil change, don’t panic- there are simple steps that you can take to troubleshoot the issue. With the right knowledge and a few tools, you can have your vehicle running smoothly again in no time! Below, we will walk through common issues with oil changes that contribute to a check engine light coming on as well as specific measures you can take to address them.
Step 1: Ensure That Your Gas Cap Is Securely Fastened
The first thing you should do is make sure that your gas cap is securely fastened and oriented properly. A misaligned or loose gas cap can lead to a breakdown in fuel system pressure, causing vapors to escape, which may trigger the check engine light.
Step 2: Run a Diagnostic Test
If the gas cap appears to be secure, then you should run a diagnostic test. This will provide more detailed information about what is causing the check engine light to come on and help you figure out how best to address it.
Step 3: Make the Necessary Repairs
The diagnostic test will provide you with a list of potential issues that might be causing the check engine light to come on. Once you have identified what is causing the issue, you can then make the necessary repairs or replacements.
Step 4: Reset The Check Engine Light
Once all repairs are complete, it’s important to reset the check engine light. This will help you monitor the functionality of your vehicle and alert you to any further issues that might arise. Resetting the check engine light is easy and can be done with a few simple steps.
By following these steps, you will have addressed any issues that are causing the check engine light to come on after an oil change and be able to get back out on the road safely. By proactively monitoring your vehicle’s performance and addressing any issues that come up, you can help ensure that your car runs smoothly for years to come.
How to Examine the Engine Oil Level After Oil Change?
Examining the engine oil level after an oil change is essential to achieving optimum performance in your vehicle. Doing so allows you to maintain lubrication levels, minimize wear and tear on the car’s internal components, and improve its reliability. By following a few simple steps, you can quickly and easily determine whether additional oil should be added or removed from your vehicle after each oil change.
Step 1: Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes
When checking the oil level after an oil change, it’s important to first let your engine cool down. This will help ensure accurate readings by allowing the air bubbles that form during use to dissipate.
Step 2: Remove the dipstick and wipe off any excess oil
The next step is to locate and remove the dipstick from the engine. Wipe off any excess oil from the dipstick and then reinsert it fully into the engine.
Step 3: Remove the dipstick again and check the level of oil in the engine
Once you’ve removed the dipstick for a second time, you will be able to view the current level of oil in your vehicle’s engine. There should be a line or marks indicating the maximum and minimum levels, as well as an area in between that indicates the optimal range.
Step 4: Add oil or remove it if necessary
If the oil level is below the minimum line, you can add more to bring it up to the optimal range. If the oil level is above the maximum line, you can use a vacuum pump to remove some of the excess oil.
In conclusion, by following these steps you can quickly and easily check your engine oil after an oil change and ensure that it remains at the optimal level. This will help ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and continues to provide reliable service for many years to come.
Tips for Maintaining Your Vehicle After an Oil Change
Once you have completed the oil change and checked that the engine oil is at the optimal level, there are a few steps you can take to ensure that your car stays in good condition and runs smoothly after each oil change. Here are some tips:
Change the oil filter. This should be done at least once a year or after every 5,000 miles (whichever comes first).
Check your car’s other fluids, such as coolant and brake fluid, on a regular basis to ensure that they are topped up and in good condition.
Check all belts and hoses for signs of wear and tear and replace any that are cracked, loose, or frayed.
Inspect the spark plugs and ensure they are in good condition. This can help improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and overall performance.
Has the car been professionally serviced on a regular basis to ensure everything is running as it should.
Following these tips can help prolong the life of your vehicle and improve its performance. By caring for your car, you can ensure you get the most out of it for years.
How To Reset The Check Engine Light After Oil Change?
Once all of the above steps have been completed and any issues have been addressed, you may need to reset the check engine light. This can usually be done by disconnecting the negative battery cable for a few minutes and then reconnecting it. After this is done, the check engine light should reset itself and turn off.
If not, there may be an issue with a component or system of your vehicle that needs to be addressed. It’s important to have your vehicle serviced by a qualified mechanic if the light stays on after resetting it.
In conclusion, checking the oil level and resetting the check engine light after an oil change is simple yet important tasks that can help ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and reliably. By following a few easy steps and tips, you can help ensure your vehicle stays in peak condition and continues to provide reliable service for many years to come.
For more information about how to check your oil level and reset the check engine light after an oil change, contact a qualified mechanic for advice. They can provide you with more detailed instructions and help ensure that your vehicle runs at its best.
How to Find the Error Code of Check Engine Light After an Oil Change?
Car problems can be both annoying and perplexing. One issue that often arises is the check engine light illuminating after an oil change. While this warning can mean a variety of potential issues, you don’t have to panic. Knowing how to find the error code associated with the light can help you determine if further repair is necessary.
You’ll first need to purchase a code reader compatible with your specific make and model of vehicle; most auto parts stores carry them at a fairly low cost. Most code readers come with comprehensive instructions on how to access and interpret the error codes, but in general, they plug into your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics port and allow you to retrieve information.
Additionally, OBD-II-compliant cars are outfitted with standardized diagnostic ports that let technicians access onboard computers for troubleshooting purposes. When used properly, these tools help pinpoint specific causes behind any malfunctions present in your vehicle.
Once the code reader is plugged in, it should indicate what type of trouble code your car has thrown. This information can then be used as a starting point for diagnosing and resolving any lingering issues. It’s important to note that some codes may require professional intervention from a mechanic or other qualified auto repair specialist.
Overall, finding the error code of your check engine light after an oil change is a simple task. With the right tools and knowledge, it can be performed quickly and easily with minimal fuss or hassle. Once you know what’s causing the issue, you can take steps to resolve it and get your vehicle back up and running again in no time.
How to prevent the check engine light from coming on after an oil change
Changing your oil is one of the most important preventative maintenance tasks that you can perform on your vehicle to ensure reliable performance and long-term health. If not done correctly, however, an oil change can trigger the check engine light to come on unexpectedly – a hassle no driver wants to deal with. Below, we’ll discuss why having a trained technician conduct regular oil changes is essential for avoiding false check engine lights and preserving the longevity of your car or truck.
Change your oil on time
The key to avoiding a false check engine light after an oil change is to ensure that you are changing your oil at the recommended intervals as specified by your vehicle’s manufacturer. This interval is typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Use the right type and amount of oil
Another critical factor is to use the right type and quantity of oil for your vehicle. Refer to your owner’s manual or ask a technician at your local auto shop to ensure that you are using the correct oil for your make and model.
Have a qualified technician change your oil
Having an experienced, certified mechanic perform all of your maintenance tasks can help ensure that your oil change is done properly and reduce the chances of a false check engine light coming on. A trained technician will also be able to diagnose and fix any issues that may trigger the check engine light in case anything does go wrong after an oil change has been completed.
By following these three simple steps, you can help avoid unnecessary repair bills and keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. It’s also important to remember to reset the check engine light after completing an oil change – even if the light didn’t come on. This will ensure that you are getting accurate results from future diagnostic tests and that your vehicle is running as it should.
FAQs about Check Engine Light After Oil Change
Is It Safe to Drive with the Check Engine Light On After Oil Change?
It is not safe to drive with the check engine light on after an oil change. The reason the check engine light turns on is that there is a problem with the car’s emissions system. If the car is driven while the check engine light is on, it will cause more damage to the emissions system and will likely result in even more problems down the road.
Can Too Much Oil Trigger a Check Engine Light?
Yes, it’s possible for too much oil to trigger a check engine light. The most common reason for this is that the oil level becomes too high and it starts to leak past the seals of the engine. When this happens, the oil is burned along with the gasoline and causes a lot of damage to the engine components. To avoid this issue, it’s essential to use the correct type and amount of oil when changing your car’s oil.
Will the check engine light go off after the oil change?
Yes, the check engine light should go off after an oil change. A properly performed oil change will reset the car’s computer system and turn off the check engine light. However, if there is a problem with the car’s oil system, such as a leak or low fluid level, the light may not turn off even after an oil change. In that case, you will need to take the car to a mechanic for further diagnosis.
How do I turn off the check engine light after an oil change?
The check engine light is usually turned off after an oil change by a diagnostic computer in the automotive service center. The computer will read the codes that were stored in the car’s memory before the oil change and clear them. If there are any other problems with the car, they will be detected and addressed at this time.
Why is my engine light on but nothing seems wrong?
If the check engine light is on but nothing seems wrong, it could mean that there is an issue with the car’s emissions system. The most common cause of this is a loose or malfunctioning oxygen sensor. This can be easily fixed by replacing the faulty part. If the problem persists after replacing the sensor, you may need to have a professional mechanic take a look at it to diagnose the underlying issue.
Conclusion for Check Engine Light After Oil Change
What to Do When Your Check Engine Light After Oil Change? Understanding why the check engine light may be on after an oil change and knowing how to properly address this issue is key for any driver. With a basic understanding of what the check engine light looks like, what it means, and its potential causes, as well as how to reset it should the need arise, you can help keep your car running safely and reliably for years to come. If the problem persists or becomes more severe, it’s important to seek out a certified mechanic as soon as possible to avoid any further damage or costly repairs.
We hope this post was helpful in explaining what the check engine light means after an oil change and how to reset it. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. And be sure to share this post with your friends and neighbors who might also find it useful!
William Moore is an automotive specialist with two decades of experience, ready to give your car the care it needs. He understands all facets of auto maintenance and repair, from oil changes to brake jobs. Working with the latest tools and technologies, he provides complete service on all makes and models of cars. With his attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship, you can expect excellent results.
