Can I drive if an engine warning light is on?

CARS are fitted with a range of dashboard warning lights that indicate when there might be a problem with your vehicle.

It is often possible to drive with your engine management light on, but is it safe?

Is it safe to drive my car with the engine light on?

If your engine management light comes on while you are driving, you should always pull over and try to figure out what’s causing the issue, as this will let you know if your car is safe to drive.

Remember it’s important to stay calm and not panic, as the light can mean a number of things.

It is strongly advisable to take your car to a professional mechanic as soon as possible to have the problem investigated and fixed and ensure that your car is 100 per cent roadworthy.

Even if you think your car is safe to drive, you could still be fined if you’re pulled over and your engine warning light is on.

According to the , you can get fined up to £2,500 for driving your car in a dangerous condition.

You can also receive three penalty points and be banned from driving if you continue to do it. 

It is your responsibility as a driver to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive on the roads, and being in a rush is not be a valid excuse to avoid the penalty.

What does an engine light look like?

Dashboards tend to have multiple lights that mean a number of things about the condition of your car.

Generally, there are three colours to look out for on your car dashboard — just like traditional traffic lights.

They are: 

• Green – means your car is in good condition and everything seems to be running smoothly
• Amber – this isn’t something that you need to worry about, but does need your attention, with the advice being to head to your nearest garage to get it checked out.
• Red – if you see a red light you need to get it looked at immediately as it could lead to an accident or breakdown if not repaired

You should consult your handbook to identify exactly what your car’s engine warning light looks like, as it can vary depending on the make and model.

Why is my engine light on?

The check engine light could illuminate for a number of reasons, the five most common being:

1. Oxygen sensor needs replacing
2. The catalytic converter is failing
3. Broken, missing, or loose petrol cap
4. Spark plugs or wires need replacing
5. Mass airflow (MAF) sensor needs replacing

Your dashboard may give you an indicator of what the issue is, as it may also tell you that you have low oil pressure or overheating issues, and you should always pull over as soon as safely possible when you see multiple lights appear at once.

Some cars also have a red check engine light as well as a yellow one, which tells the driver there is a need for investigation over urgent issues.

You should reduce speed and load, if possible, and avoid speed surges or erratic gear shifting when warning lights come on.

If the light comes on shortly after refuelling, it is advisable to check that your petrol cap is fitted correctly.