What is a Check Engine Light?
The Mini Check Engine light is part of the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system of your Mini Cooper. It is the most dreaded onboard warnings for most drivers, but don’t fret. It doesn’t mean the engine is about to blow-up. The dashboard warning light can be illuminated for a variety of reasons, some of them requiring immediate attention, while other times it may indicative of a small, simple problem.
mini check engine light
What Problems Can Trigger the Check Engine Light?
When you see the check engine light illuminated in your dash, it means your Mini Cooper has detected a problem within its OBD system. The problems can range from mild to severe, depending on the color of the light. If the Mini engine light is flashing yellow or red, it is in your best interest to take it to an Independent Service Center for diagnosis right away. At German Car Depot, we hook up our computers to the Mini Cooper, and can then pinpoint the exact cause of the problem. This may require further investigation “under the hood”, but it does point us in the right direction.
Some causes of a Warning Light include, but are not limited to:
- Loose gas cap
- Fuel Injector that is dirty
- Faulty ignition coils
- Bad oxygen sensors
- Broken or loose hoses
- Misfiring spark plugs
- Faulty mass airflow sensor
- Emission control system malfunction
- And more…
What Should I do if my Check Engine Light Comes on?
As noted, a Check Engine light could come on for a variety of reasons, some of them minor, but some major. If the light is a solid yellow or orange color, the problem likely does not require immediate attention. However, if you ignore it for too long, it could turn into a more serious problem. If the light is red or flashing yellow, then check your oil pressure, or to be sure that your Mini is not overheating. Then make an appointment at the German Car Depot right away.
- Solid Yellow or Orange color = Minor problem.
- Flashing Yellow or Red = Problem requiring immediate attention.
What Should I Expect When I Visit German Car Depot for Diagnosis?
Our professionals at German Car Depot will attach our diagnostic computers to your Mini Cooper, to determine the problem. In some cases we may have to test-drive or inspect the problem further “hands-on.” But, the computer helps us pinpoint the problem exactly. We can then determine the cost to repair your Mini. We have the same diagnostic scanning tools that you will find at the Dealership, our Mini repair costs are far less.