A small, simple, handheld scanner can cost anywhere between £35 and £70, while larger and more in-depth units can have price tags that go all the way into the thousands. In the long run, a diagnostic reader could prove a worthwhile investment, especially if your engine management light comes on to warn you of something that can be very easily fixed (such as a loose fuel filler cap or clogged air filter). There are some exceptions though, as manufacturers – including Audi and Volkswagen – have their own additional error codes, specific to their models, that can only be identified by some specialised scanners. Some diagnostic readers even have the ability to turn your engine management light off again once you’ve been able to fix the fault.įor the most part, diagnostic readers are universal, which means they can be used on almost every new car in the UK.
Once you have the correct code, you can use online manuals or search engines to find out what it means.
They then use Bluetooth connectivity to send the corresponding error code to an app on your smartphone. The most common are called OBD-II scanners, which – if you own a newer model – plug into a data port in your car. You can also buy one in some leading technology stores, as well as online. When your engine management light illuminates, you can discover the error code of what’s gone wrong by using something called a diagnostic reader.ĭiagnostic readers are commonplace in garages and can detect what’s activated your engine management light. However, each individual problem that can cause it to light up has its own unique error code. Without checking, it’s almost impossible to be absolutely sure why your engine management light has come on. Many of these can be spotted by OBD-II diagnostic scanners (more on them below…), or by taking your car to your local garage, while a few can be easily resolved on your own.įor everything you need to know about your engine management light, read on: What does the engine management light mean? What do I do about it? Diagnostic scanners (OBD-II): Depending on the problem, the engine management light can be orange, red or flashing on and off.ĭepending on what causes it, there are a number of ways to get your engine management light to turn off again. Should the ECU detect something out of the ordinary, it will turn the light on. Instead, it is connected to the engine control unit (ECU): your car’s computer brain. Unfortunately, the engine management light does not warn about one specific problem. If you see it, it means that something to do with your car’s engine and/or exhaust has gone wrong.
It’s a dashboard warning light usually found close to your car’s speedometer dial – clearly within your line of sight – and shows up either as the outline of an engine or, simply, the words “CHECK ENGINE”. When you've found your ideal Ford repairer, make an appointment to suit your schedule – and get back on the road.The engine management light (sometimes called the check engine light) has been a common and essential fixture in cars for a long time. Simply select the quote and service you want. We send you a list of options and quotes – along with real customer reviews of each garage and mechanic.
Ford Fiesta - Full Service and MOT 70 times.Ford Mondeo - Clutch Replacement 75 times.Ford Fiesta - Clutch Replacement 193 times.Ford Focus - Clutch Replacement 241 times.Common Ford FaultsĬommon Ford servicing and repair requests we have seen in the last 30 days are as follows: We'll ensure you follow the recommended Ford Service Schedule, or get your car looked at by a genuine Ford expert, without paying more than you need to. Whether you drive a current model, such as a Focus, Ka or Fiesta, a modern classic, such as a Focus RS or ST or one of the Ford 'legends', such as Escort Cosworth, regular Ford servicing and maintenance is essential. Britain's best-selling brand for over a generation, thanks to eye-catching styling, a network of over 500 dealers, robust build and some truly iconic performance models, Ford is the most popular brand seen on WhoCanFixM圜ar.com.