The orange engine light, also known as the engine management light (EML) or check engine light, is a common dashboard warning light that indicates a potential issue with your vehicle’s engine, exhaust, or emissions system.
This light is designed to alert drivers of potential problems as early as possible, allowing them to take necessary action to prevent further damage.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the various causes of the orange engine light, what to do when it appears, and the potential consequences of ignoring the warning.
Table of Contents
What is the Orange Engine Light?
The orange engine light is a warning signal that appears on your vehicle’s dashboard when its onboard diagnostic system (OBD) detects a problem with the engine, exhaust, or emissions system.
Unlike other dashboard warning lights, such as the coolant temperature or low oil level warnings, the orange engine light is a general indicator of a potential issue and can be triggered for various reasons.
Different car manufacturers may use different symbols for the engine light, but the most common is an amber or orange light in the shape of an engine outline. The light may appear as a steady glow, a flashing signal, or even a red light, with each indicating different levels of severity.
Causes of the Orange Engine Light
There are numerous reasons why the orange engine light may come on, ranging from minor issues to serious problems that require immediate attention. Here are some of the most common causes:
1. Emissions System Fault
One of the primary reasons for the appearance of the orange engine light is a fault in the vehicle’s emissions control system.
Modern cars are equipped with various sensors and control systems designed to reduce the emission of harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons.
These systems need to function correctly to ensure that the vehicle meets the required emissions standards and performs efficiently.
If a problem occurs within the emissions control system, such as a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, or exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve, the engine light will likely turn on.
2. Ignition System Fault
Another common cause of the orange engine light is a fault within the ignition system. In petrol-powered cars, the ignition system is responsible for creating the spark necessary to ignite the fuel and air mixture in the engine’s combustion chambers.
Problems with the spark plugs, ignition coils, or the wiring between them can lead to engine misfires, poor performance, and increased emissions, resulting in the activation of the engine light.
In diesel-powered cars, the ignition system relies on the compression of the fuel and air mixture to create heat and ignite the mixture.
However, issues with components such as glow plugs or fuel injectors can also cause the engine light to come on.
3. Mass Airflow Sensor
The mass airflow sensor (MAF) is a crucial component in determining the correct fuel and air mixture for efficient engine operation. The sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine, allowing the electronic control unit (ECU) to adjust the fuel injection accordingly.
If the MAF sensor malfunctions or provides inaccurate readings, the engine may run too rich (too much fuel) or too lean (not enough fuel), leading to poor performance, increased emissions, and the activation of the engine light.
4. Blocked Diesel Particulate Filter
Diesel-powered vehicles are equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to capture and remove harmful soot particles from the exhaust gases.
Over time, the DPF can become clogged with soot, restricting the flow of exhaust gases and affecting engine performance.
If the DPF becomes too blocked, the engine light may come on, and the vehicle may enter a reduced power or “limp mode” to prevent further damage.
5. Loose or Damaged Fuel Cap
A loose or damaged fuel cap can also cause the orange engine light to come on. The fuel cap is designed to create a tight seal on the fuel tank, preventing fuel vapors from escaping and maintaining the correct pressure within the fuel system.
If the cap is not properly secured or is damaged, the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system may detect a leak in the evaporative emission control system (EVAP), triggering the engine light.
Read also >> How To Remove Check Engine Light Fuse (Step by Step)
Read also >> Amber Engine Warning Light (Causes, Solutions + More)
Read also >> Warning Light Malfunction (Here Is How To Fix)
Orange Engine Light Severity Levels
As mentioned earlier, the orange engine light can appear in different forms, indicating varying levels of severity. Here is a brief overview of each type:
Steady Orange Engine Light
A steady orange engine light typically indicates a less severe problem, such as a loose fuel cap, a faulty oxygen sensor, or a minor emissions system issue.
In most cases, you can continue driving your vehicle but should schedule a visit to a mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and address the issue.
Flashing Orange Engine Light
A flashing orange engine light is a more serious warning, indicating a potential issue that could affect your vehicle’s performance and drivability. Examples include engine misfires, a blocked diesel particulate filter, or a malfunctioning ignition system.
In these cases, it is best to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic immediately, as continuing to drive with a flashing engine light may cause further damage to your vehicle.
Red Engine Light
A red engine light is the most severe warning, indicating a critical issue that requires immediate attention. Examples include a major emissions system fault or a serious engine problem.
If your engine light turns red, you should pull over to a safe location as soon as possible and contact your breakdown assistance provider for help.
What to Do When the Orange Engine Light Comes On
If the orange engine light appears on your dashboard, it’s essential to take appropriate action based on the type of light and the potential severity of the issue. Here are some steps to follow:
- Stay calm and assess the situation: When the engine light comes on, remain calm and try to determine if there are any noticeable changes in your vehicle’s performance, such as reduced power, unusual noises, or vibrations.
- Check the fuel cap: If the light is steady, check your fuel cap to ensure it is properly tightened. If the cap is loose or damaged, replace it and see if the light turns off after driving for a short distance.
- Consult your owner’s manual: Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for more information on the engine light and any specific steps or precautions to take.
- Schedule a mechanic visit: If the light persists or is flashing, schedule a visit to a mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and address the issue.
- Avoid driving with a red engine light: If the engine light turns red, pull over to a safe location and contact your breakdown assistance provider for help.
Resetting the Orange Engine Light
In some cases, the orange engine light may turn off by itself after the underlying issue has been resolved. However, if the light remains on, you may need to reset it using an OBD-II code reader or by visiting a mechanic.
It’s important to note that simply resetting the light without addressing the problem may cause the light to come back on later.
Preventing Orange Engine Light Issues
Regular vehicle maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent many issues that may cause the orange engine light to come on. Here are some tips for keeping your engine and emissions systems in good condition:
- Regular oil changes: Schedule regular oil changes as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer to ensure proper engine lubrication and performance.
- Inspect and replace air filters: Check your vehicle’s air filters regularly and replace them as needed to maintain optimal engine efficiency and reduce the risk of mass airflow sensor issues.
- Check and replace spark plugs and ignition coils: Inspect your vehicle’s spark plugs and ignition coils periodically, replacing them as necessary to avoid ignition system faults.
- Maintain the emissions control system: Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for maintaining your vehicle’s emissions control system, including regular inspections and replacements of components such as oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, and exhaust gas recirculation valves.
- Drive responsibly: Avoid aggressive driving, excessive idling, and overloading your vehicle, as these behaviors can contribute to engine and emissions system issues.
How do I clear my orange engine light?
Clearing the check engine light is not a solution to the underlying problem, and it is not recommended to do so without addressing the root cause of the issue.
Once the problem has been resolved, the light will usually turn off on its own. To clear the check engine light, you can disconnect the car’s battery for a few minutes, which will reset the car’s computer. However, this method is not recommended as it can also erase important data and settings from the car’s computer, which can lead to further issues down the line.
It’s best to retrieve the fault code and diagnose the root cause of the problem before attempting any fixes or clearing the check engine light.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the orange engine light serves as an essential warning signal for potential issues within your vehicle’s engine, exhaust, and emissions systems.
By understanding the various causes of the light and taking appropriate action when it appears, you can help ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle.
Always consult a professional mechanic for expert advice and assistance in diagnosing and resolving engine light-related issues.