Steady check engine light
- It may mean an emissions, sensor, fuel-system, or engine issue. If the car is running normally with no other warning signs, arrange a diagnosis.
- If you also notice strong shaking, loss of power, or overheating, pull over safely and stop driving instead.
Get it checked soon.
Flashing check engine light
- It may mean an active engine misfire that can damage the catalytic converter. Avoid further driving and arrange roadside assistance and an inspection.
Pull over safely and stop driving.
Overheating or steam
- A high temperature gauge, temperature warning, or steam may mean a cooling-system problem. Turn off the engine once safely stopped and arrange assistance.
- Never open a hot radiator or coolant cap. Have a qualified mechanic inspect it.
Pull over safely and stop driving.
Squealing brakes
- A repeated new squeal may mean worn pads or another brake issue. Have a qualified mechanic inspect it promptly.
- If braking feels weaker, the pedal is soft, or a brake warning appears, pull over safely and stop driving.
Get it checked soon.
Grinding brakes
- Grinding may mean metal-to-metal contact or damaged brake parts. Arrange assistance and have a qualified mechanic inspect it before driving again.
Pull over safely and stop driving.
Burning smells
- A new burning-oil, rubber, or electrical smell may mean a leak on hot parts, overheating, or an electrical problem. Arrange an inspection before driving again.
- If you see smoke or fire, leave the vehicle, move to a safe distance, and call 911.
Pull over safely and stop driving.
Small fluid leaks: color clues
- Amber, brown, or black may be oil. Red or brown may be transmission or power-steering fluid. Green, orange, pink, or blue may be coolant.
- Clear to pale yellow or brown may be brake fluid. Color alone cannot identify a fluid; different fluids can look alike. Have a qualified mechanic inspect it.
- Clear, odorless water after using the A/C is often normal condensation. If you are unsure or a puddle keeps returning, arrange a check.
Get it checked soon.
Leaks with urgent signs
- A fuel smell, a large or fast-growing leak, a soft brake pedal, or a leak with an oil-pressure or temperature warning may signal a serious problem. Turn off the engine once safely stopped and arrange assistance.
Pull over safely and stop driving.
Mild new shaking
- Vibration may come from tires, wheels, brakes, or the engine. Note when it happens and have a qualified mechanic inspect it.
- For sudden or severe shaking, trouble steering, or shaking with a flashing engine light, pull over safely and stop driving.
Get it checked soon.
Hard starts
- Slow cranking or repeated trouble starting may mean a weak battery, charging issue, starter issue, or fuel-system problem. Have a qualified mechanic inspect it before you are left without a start.
- If you smell fuel or burning, or see smoke, pull over safely and stop driving; if parked, do not keep trying to start it.
Get it checked soon.