Engine Light on in Your Non-electric Car
First, check your gas cap. A loose gas cap allows fuel vapors to escape and triggers an error in your car’s emissions system.
If that is not the problem, many auto parts stores such as AutoZone will run diagnostics on your car for free. The have what is called an OBD2 scanner that they can plug into your car and read any error codes that may tell you want the problem is. Many times they can sell you a part that you can install yourself and save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.
If you are frequently encountering problems, it may be worth purchasing your own OBD2 scanner. They can be purchased for as little as $25. They are simple to use. Just plug it into a socket that is usually directly under the steering wheel.