Check Engine Light Toyota Camry–Don’t Panic!

The Check Engine light on your Toyota Camry (also known as a Malfunction Indicator Light, MIL), when illuminated, usually means there’s a problem with the vehicle’s emissions system. If the onboard computer gets a reading that’s a bit out of whack, the check engine light comes on.

If the check engine light illuminates, it will either blink or remain constant, depending on the problem. Either way, the check engine light indicates that your Camry has experience some sort of a problem.  A blinking light indicates a more serious problem that needs immediate attention.

When the check engine light comes on, it could be something as as simple as a loose gas cap or it could be an indicator of a serious engine problem. If the check engine light (MIL) comes on while driving, first check the following:

1. Is your vehicle low on gas? If it is, refuel the vehicle immediately.
2. Is the fuel tank cap loose? If it is, tighten it securely.

If the check engine light came on because of a gas cap, the light will go off after taking several driving trips. If the light does not go off, even after several trips, it is time to schedule a maintenance visit with T3 Atlanta as soon as possible.

In late-model cars, a blinking light usually indicates an engine misfire so severe that unburned fuel is being dumped into the exhaust system, where it can quickly damage the catalytic converter, requiring an expensive repair. If that happens, you should reduce power and have the car or truck looked at as soon as possible.

According to Consumer Reports, check the following areas if your Camry check engine light comes on:

1. Look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for indications of low oil pressure or overheating. These conditions mean you should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as you can find a safe place to do so.
2. Try tightening your gas cap. This often solves the problem. Keep in mind that it may take several trips before the light resets. Some vehicles have a separate indicator that warns of a loose gas cap before the condition sets off the “check engine” light.
3. Reduce speed and load. If the “check engine” light is blinking or you notice any serious performance problems, such as a loss of power, reduce your speed and try to reduce the load on the engine. For example, it would be a good idea to stop towing a trailer. Have the car checked as soon as possible to prevent expensive damage.

If your check engine light is on, your Camry check engine light codes can be read by T3 Atlanta and they can tell you what is causing the light to come on. If the light is steady, the problem is not an emergency, but you should schedule an appointment with T3 Atlanta as soon as possible if the light stays on.  Neglecting a minor issue could lead to bigger problems down the road!

Reset Check Engine Light Toyota Camry

If you need to reset your check engine light following these steps should work:

1. Locate the fuse panel cover under the steering column. Pull down on it with your fingers to remove it.
2. Examine the diagram on the fuse panel cover and find the electronic control unit fuse.
3. Remove the fuse puller from inside the fuse panel and use it to pull the fuse out for the electronic control unit.
4. Put the key into the ignition and turn on the car but don’t turn over the engine. Wait a few minutes then put the fuse back in place. You should notice the check engine light blinking a few times on the instrument panel, then it will go off.
5. Turn off the engine and replace the fuse panel cover.

If these reset steps do not work, or if you don’t feel like doing the work yourself, take your car to us in Decatur or Smyrna and we can reset your check engine light for you.