Has your engine light been on for months? What it could mean

Seeing the dreaded engine light illuminate your dashboard and the potential costs associated with fixing the issue can cause unwanted stress and anxiety. In some cases, the engine light could indicate an easy and stress-free fix. In other cases it could be the sign of a more serious problem.

While the engine light can signal various issues, it's essential to pay special attention to transmission-related problems as these tend to be costly if ignored. Although some modern vehicles have a transmission warning light that will indicate that there is an issue with the transmission, most older cars only have the check engine light to inform drivers of an issue.

If you experience any of the below symptoms, it’s best to be proactive and bring your vehicle into a professional to determine the root of the problem.

Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid

Your vehicle's transmission is an essential component of your vehicle that requires a healthy supply of transmission fluid to operate smoothly. Low fluid levels, leaks, or contaminated fluid can all affect the transmission's performance and trigger the engine light.

Some of the warning signals of poor transmission fluid health would include a burning smell, smoke coming from the hood, difficulty shifting gears, strange sounds or slipping gears. If you neglect your transmission fluid, this may also lead to overheating of the transmission which can quickly lead to further damage or even transmission failure.

Checking your transmission fluid on a regular basis is the best way to ensure you don’t cause further damage to your vehicle by running on low or contaminated fluids. Learn how to check your fluid levels.

Transmission Shift Solenoid Malfunction

The shift transmission solenoid is an electro-hydraulic valve that controls the flow of the transmission fluid. Through an electric signal, the transmission control module (TCM) will tell the solenoid when to transfer fluid and the rate in which to transfer it.

In addition to your check engine light coming on, if you notice delayed gear shifting, the inability to shift gears or if you start to hear concerning sounds such as grinding gears or vibrations — it's important to take your vehicle to a professional technician to assess the issue. It is possible that the transmission might just need a fluid change or a flush, however, in more serious cases the entire solenoid pack may need to be replaced.

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Glitches

The transmission control module is a computer system that plays an integral role in the proper function of your transmission. This computer system will send the transmission shift solenoid an electric signal to communicate when to transfer fluid and at what rate. If the TCM stops working correctly, this will affect your vehicle's ability to respond quickly to gear changes. Some of the warning signs of a malfunctioning TCM include:

Vehicle is stuck in gear
Trouble downshifting
Loud engine sounds as you try to shift to a higher gear
Gear slipping
Overheating of the transmission

A clear indicator of a faulty TCM is when the vehicle goes into ‘limp mode.’ Limp mode is when the vehicle will restrict its functionality and will operate with a limited number of gears. This happens when your vehicle goes into the safety default mode which is triggered when the TCM detects potential issues and wants to protect the vehicle from further damage. In order to drive the vehicle again, the TCM would need to be replaced

Ignoring the signs of a failing TCM is a risky proposition. In addition to the inconvenience of erratic shifting, continued use of a malfunctioning TCM can put additional strain on your transmission, leading to premature wear and potential transmission failure.

Where to get your engine light checked for free

When the engine light comes on and you're uncertain about its cause, it's good to have a professional technician assess the possible causes. At Highway 97 Transmissions, we understand the anxiety that comes with a bright engine light. That's why we offer free engine light checks, allowing you to gain insights into the problem without any financial commitment. Our experienced technicians will carefully examine your vehicle, providing you with potential causes, so you can make informed decisions about your vehicle.

With 30+ years of experience Highway 97 Transmissions is one of the Okanagan's most trusted transmission shops. Feel good knowing your transmission is in capable and caring hands.