Technicians are relied upon to diagnose a problem with a vehicleOBD error codesto tell them where the problem is and what is wrong. Whenever the vehicle's system detects a problem, it will trigger or "throw" a diagnostic trouble code that a mechanic can evaluate using a diagnostic tool such as the MaxiSYS MS909.MS919, of MSULTRA vanTriad diagnostic solutions.
But what if a car's check engine light doesn't come on? Can a car transmit codes without the check engine light coming on? Let's find out!
Why a car can give codes without a check engine light
It may be surprising to you, but yes, a car can generate error codes without the check engine light coming on. But why? It turns out that the check engine light is not always directly connected to the mechanism responsible for generating codes. In some cases, there may be a loose connection or even a wiring problem that is preventing the check engine light from coming on. That said, there are a few other reasons why a check engine light may not come on, even with codes being generated. Additionally, many minor codes or non-critical operating systems do not generate dash lights because the OEMs do not want to worry their customers every time a minor problem occurs on a non-critical or non-safety system.
A problem with the vehicle's computer
The first reason why a check engine light may not come on even though codes are being generated is a problem with the vehicle's computer. There are two different types of codes that your car's computer can generate: error codes and information codes. These include:
- Information codes. Information codes do not necessarily indicate a problem. Instead, they are intended to provide information about what your car is doing.
- Engine error codes. Engine trouble codes are generated when a problem is detected in your car. This usually causes the check engine light to come on, but not always.
The Check Engine Light may be burned out
Another reason why the check engine light does not come on, even though a car is showing error codes, is a burned out check engine light. In this scenario, it is critical that you have your car's fault codes read by a trusted mechanic who can diagnose and fix the problem.
Can technicians read error codes without the check engine light?
Most mechanics are perfectly capable of reading error codes without an indicator light. If the check engine light is on in your vehicle, it is important to have the codes read by a mechanic as soon as possible. On the other hand, if your car starts misbehaving and the check engine light is not on, it is still a good idea to take your car to a mechanic for a diagnostic test. The sooner you identify the problem, the better your chances of solving the problem before it gets much worse.
How are error codes read?
To read trouble codes, a mechanic connects a diagnostic scanner or code reader to the vehicle's 16 pinOBD II-diagnoseconnector. This connector is usually located under the dashboard and near the steering column of the vehicle. The tool then displays the code(s) thrown by the vehicle. To read the codes correctly, a good scan tool is required.
Changessoftwarecan read codes from thousands of makes and models, meaning you get dealer-level service every time!
Reliable diagnostic scanning tools from Triad Diagnostic Solutions
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