These lights can signal something serious or something as simple as a loose gas cap. Oil changes are essential maintenance for your car but it won’t do anything that could trigger your check engine light to come on. If you notice the light after an oil change, something else is wrong.

Why is my check engine light on after oil change?

A check engine light after an oil change is commonly caused by fitting the oil filler cap backways or oil dipstick not fully seated. Removing and fitting the cap correctly, or seating the dipstick will fix the issue. The engine light may not go out immediately, but likely will within three engine start cycles.

How do I turn off the check engine light after an oil change?

Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “on” position without starting the engine. Press the the gas pedal slowly to the floor three successive times within 10 seconds. Turning the ignition off. If the light is still on the next time you start the truck, repeat the process.

Will a check engine light reset itself?

Your vehicle’s check engine light will will reset by itself once the issue or problem has been repaired; this is true for most models. If you are certain that you have resolved the issue that caused your check engine light to come on in the first place, then the light should reset itself after at least 20 cycles.

What is the most common reason for check engine light?

Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor — a sensor used to optimize a vehicle’s fuel-to-air mixture to increase gas mileage and reduce emissions — is the most common cause for a check engine light.

Is it safe to drive with check engine light on?

The rule of thumb is that if the check engine light is flashing, you can’t keep driving the car. It’s an emergency. Often it indicates an engine misfire. If you keep driving, you will likely cause irreversible damage, mostly to the (expensive) catalytic converter.

How long do you have to drive to reset engine light?

To make sure the check engine light does not reappear, it’s recommended that you drive your car 30 to 100 miles. This enables the vehicle’s “Drive Cycle” to reset, as the various sensors need time to recalibrate.

When should I be worried about check engine light?

Unlike a Temperature or Oil Pressure light, a Check Engine light is usually not an urgent, “Stop right now or you may cause permanent damage!” type of situation, unless it is flashing. If your gas cap is loose or the seal is not tight, the vapor leakage can cause your fuel system to trigger the check engine light.

Can Autozone reset check engine light?

Did you know that you can get your check engine light scanned for free? Any of the major parts stores in the country, such as: Napa, Advance Auto, Autozone and O’Reilly’s, will scan your vehicle, and tell you the P codes for no charge at all.

What does a solid check engine light mean?

A solid Check Engine Light can mean something like a loose gas cap, or it can indicate a more in-depth problem like a fuel, timing, or transmission issue. Get your car diagnosed, although the urgency isn’t the same as if the light was flashing at you.

Can low oil cause the check engine light to come on?

Low oil pressure: If your car is low on oil, it can cause your check engine light to go off. This is often shown in its own glowing light along with the check engine light on the dashboard.

What can throw a check engine light?

Spark plug or coil issues Speaking of spark plugs, they too can throw up a check engine light. Faulty spark plugs can cause misfires or even cylinders to stop running entirely. The coil packs that sit on top of the plugs can cause the same symptoms when faulty.