Posted on 5/30/2025

Seeing your check engine light come on is never fun, but when it starts flashing, it’s a much more urgent signal that your vehicle needs immediate attention. A steady light usually indicates a minor issue, but a flashing check engine light means your engine is misfiring in a way that could damage the catalytic converter or other key components if you keep driving. Knowing why this is happening and how to respond can save you from costly repairs and keep you safe on the road. Why the Light Flashes Instead of Staying On The check engine light is part of your car’s onboard diagnostic system. When it starts flashing, it’s trying to alert you to a severe misfire. In simple terms, one or more cylinders in your engine aren’t firing properly. Instead of cleanly burning fuel, unburned fuel exits the cylinder and flows into the exhaust system. This fuel can overheat and damage the catalytic converter, which is an essential and expensive emissions contr ... read more