Welcome parents! As your teen starts driving on their own, you can count on a few dings and some panic. You can also expect some engine trouble, especially with an engine light coming on. It can be a cause for worry and confusion, but don’t worry, we’re here to guide you on how to teach your teen to understand check engine lights and how to respond when it turns on.
By following a few simple steps and having some basic knowledge about cars, your teen will have no problem understanding check engine lights and will be able to handle when they pop on with ease. Let’s dive in and equip our teens with the right skills to handle an unexpected engine light.
Understanding Check Engine Lights
The check engine light, also known as the engine light, is a small dashboard warning light that indicates an issue with your car’s emission system. It can be triggered by a variety of factors such as a loose gas cap, faulty oxygen sensor, or more serious issues like an engine misfire. When the light turns on, it’s important to address it promptly to prevent any further damage to your car.
Stay Calm and Pull Over Safely
The first thing your teen should do when the engine light turns on while driving is to stay calm and pull over safely to the side of the road. Remind them not to panic or make any sudden movements that could put them or other drivers in danger. Once they have safely pulled over, they can turn off the engine and check for any visible signs of damage or smoke.
Check the Gas Cap
A loose gas cap is one of the most common reasons for an engine light to turn on. Encourage your teen to check if the gas cap is securely fastened and tighten it if needed. They can then restart the car and see if the light turns off. If this was indeed the issue, problem solved! However, if it isn’t the gas cap, your teen might have to pop the car hood to further investigate.
Popping the Hood
First things first, though, be sure to teach your teen how to properly open the car hood. This can be a bit intimidating for someone who is not familiar with cars, but with some practice and guidance, your teen can easily learn this skill. Start by showing them where the hood release lever or button is located inside the car. Then, have them locate the latch under the hood and pull it to release the hood.
Remind them to always use caution when opening the hood as there may be hot engine components. Encourage them to keep a small auto toolkit in their trunk with gloves if they don’t want to get their hands dirty.
Use a Code Reader
If tightening the gas cap doesn’t turn off the engine light, your teen can use a code reader to check for any error codes. These devices can be purchased at most auto parts stores and are fairly easy to use. They simply need to plug it into the car’s diagnostic port, usually located under the steering wheel, and follow the instructions to read the error code.
A code reader typically costs around $50 to $100, depending on the brand and features. While this may seem like an investment, it can actually save your teen money in the long run. By identifying the specific issue causing the engine light to turn on, your teen can make a more informed decision about whether they need to take their car to a mechanic or if it’s something they can fix themselves. This can prevent unnecessary trips to the mechanic and potentially save them hundreds of dollars.
Look Up the Error Code
Once your teen has retrieved the error code from the code reader, they can look it up online or in a car manual to determine what could be causing it. This will give them a better idea of how serious the issue is and whether they can continue driving or if they need to seek professional help.
Seek Professional Help if Necessary
If the error code indicates a more serious issue, or if the light continues to stay on even after trying the above steps, it’s best to seek professional help. Remind your teen not to ignore the engine light as it could lead to bigger and costlier problems down the road.
Just as any driver needs it, your teen should have a trusted mechanic they can rely on. Encourage them to do some research, or, recommend them to the family mechanic, such as Witmer Automotive. This way, they can establish a good relationship with a reliable mechanic who will give them honest advice and fair pricing. It’s also a good idea for your teen to go with the mechanic and observe the repair process, so they can learn more about their car and how to handle future issues.
Regular Maintenance
One of the best ways to prevent unexpected engine lights is by keeping up with regular maintenance of your car. Encourage your teen to get their car serviced regularly and address any unusual sounds or sensations while driving. This will not only keep their car running smoothly but also promote safe driving habits.
By following these simple steps, your teen can confidently handle an unexpected engine light without feeling overwhelmed or panicked. Be sure to emphasize the importance of staying calm and addressing the issue promptly to prevent further damage. Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your car in good condition and avoiding any unexpected engine troubles. Happy driving!
About the Writer: Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health, and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. You can find her on Twitter and Facebook.
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