What does the check engine light mean?
Reviewed by Cory Gunderson, Internet Sales & Finance Manager · Last checked October 27, 2026
Short answer
It means the engine's computer has detected a problem. FuelEconomy.gov says it could be as minor as a loose gas cap, or something more serious that lowers fuel economy, raises emissions or leads to costly repairs. Have it inspected when it comes on, even if the vehicle seems to drive normally.
The details
The light is also called the malfunction indicator lamp. A few practical tips:
- Check the gas cap first. Tighten it until it clicks. The light may take a few drive cycles to go out.
- Flashing light: check your owner's manual right away for what your vehicle's maker says to do.
- Don't ignore it. FuelEconomy.gov notes modern vehicles may drive normally even when they need a repair.
Our service departments are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday hours are for sales only. We don't service electric vehicles.
Need it looked at? Schedule service in Barron.
Book online or call the service department for your brand. Service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
More Car Care Questions answers
- Car Care Questions: Warning Lights, Tires, Batteries, Oil and Warranty
- Why does my tire pressure light come on when it gets cold?
- Why do car batteries die in cold weather?
- How often should I change my oil?
- Will using an independent shop void my new-car warranty?
Helpful Swant Graber pages
- Schedule service
- Oil change intervals by model
- Maintenance records and your warranty
- Winter gas mileage and warm-ups
More buyer and owner answers
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- Ask Swant Graber: car-buying questions
3 brands. 2 rooftops. 1 Swant Graber.
Chevrolet, Dodge, Ram, and Ford on one Highway 8 campus in Barron, with Swant Graber roots here since 1959. Swant Graber Motors and Swant Graber Ford sit directly across Highway 8 from each other.
Swant Graber Motors
Chevrolet · Dodge · Ram
1690 E Division Ave (Highway 8)Barron, WI 54812
Phone
715-537-5657Sales: Mon–Fri 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m., Sat 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. · Service: Mon–Fri 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Swant Graber Ford
Ford · across Highway 8
1697 E Division Ave (Highway 8)Barron, WI 54812
Phone
715-537-9500Sales: Mon–Fri 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m., Sat 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. · Service: Mon–Fri 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Questions
Can a loose gas cap turn on the check engine light?
Yes. FuelEconomy.gov lists a loose gas cap as one possible cause.
Is it safe to drive with the check engine light on?
Get it inspected soon. Follow your owner's manual, especially if the light is flashing.
Does Swant Graber service on Saturdays?
No. Service is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday hours are for sales only.
Get it looked at in Barron
Book with the service department at either store on Highway 8. Service is open Monday to Friday; ask about a loaner when you book.
Swant Graber Motors (Chevrolet, Ram, Dodge)
1690 E Division Ave, Barron, WI 54812
715-537-5657
Swant Graber Ford
1697 E Division Ave, Barron, WI 54812
715-537-9500
Sources
- FuelEconomy.gov (U.S. DOE/EPA): Keeping your vehicle in shape: fueleconomy.gov
- Swant Graber: Facts, brands, stores and hours: swantgraber.com