Blog - Nissan Check Engine Light Guide
View All Blog Posts
February 11, 2021
When your Nissan check engine light comes on, your vehicle is trying to tell you something and needs your attention. What is it trying to tell you, though? Find out in this guide to your Nissan's check engine light.
What Does It Mean When the Nissan Check Engine Light Comes On?
The Light Stays On
A Malfunction Indicator Light that stays on but doesn't blink typically means your Nissan should be serviced soon but isn't in jeopardy of being harmed right away. You may be able to keep driving your vehicle, but you should set up a service appointment with a Nissan dealer when you get a chance. However, it's best not to ignore a solid MIL, as it could result in a small issue turning into a big problem.
The Light Is Steady or Blinking While the Engine Is Running
If the check engine light (also known as the Malfunction Indicator Light) comes on — either steady or blinking — while the engine is running, it might mean a malfunction with the emission control system. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) also might come on steady if the fuel-filler cap is loose or missing or if your vehicle runs out of fuel.
The Light Comes On and Blinks While the Engine Is Off
If the indicator light comes on steady for 20 seconds and then blinks for 10 seconds when the engine is not running, it may indicate the vehicle isn't ready for an emission control system inspection or maintenance test.
For additional information, refer to the “Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test” in the “Technical and consumer information” section of your owner's manual.
Regardless of why the MIL comes on, it's wise to take your vehicle to a Nissan dealer to have it inspected. Nissan technicians can “talk” to your vehicle's computer by using a Nissan-specific code reader. Reading the code can help determine why the MIL is illuminated.
What Should You Do When the Nissan Check Engine Light Comes On?
If the Light Stays On
If the MIL is illuminated but not blinking, first check to see whether the fuel-filler cap is loose or missing. Make sure the fuel-filler cap is closed and tightened. Make sure your vehicle has at least 3 gallons of fuel in the tank.
Once you've ensured the fuel-filler cap is on tightly, continue driving your vehicle. If a loose fuel cap was the issue, the light should turn off after a few trips. If not, other potential problems may exist with the emission control system.
If the light does not turn off after a few trips, get your vehicle inspected at a Nissan dealer. You shouldn't need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer in this situation. When the light remains steady, it could signal that there's a problem with the emission control system.
If the Light Is Blinking
If the MIL is blinking, this could mean your Nissan has detected an engine misfire. An engine misfire can damage the emission control system. A damaged catalytic converter could also be another cause of a flashing MIL.
If your MIL is blinking, you may need to take some extra precautions to reduce or avoid emission control system damage:
- Do not drive over 45 mph
- Avoid hard acceleration or deceleration
- Avoid steep uphill grades
- Reduce the amount of cargo being hauled or towed if possible
If the Malfunction Indicator Light is blinking, it's important to get your Nissan inspected at your closest Nissan service center as soon as possible to avoid damage to the vehicle.
Signs That the Check Engine Light May Not Be a Serious Issue
Though it can seem scary, an illuminated check engine light doesn't always spell immediate doom. Sometimes, the check engine light can be more of a friendly reminder to have something on your Nissan serviced. Here are five indicators that your MIL might not be a serious issue:
- Your vehicle is running normally.
- You don't hear any odd noises coming from your vehicle while you're driving.
- You don't see any smoke coming from your vehicle.
- You don't smell anything unusual inside or around your vehicle.
- Your gas mileage hasn't changed.
Signs That the Check Engine Light May Be a Serious Issue
At the opposite end of the spectrum, your check engine light could be a warning that something needs to be fixed right away. Here are five indicators that a check engine light means you should have your Nissan serviced immediately:
- Your vehicle is making strange noises, such as knocking and rattling.
- You see smoke coming from your vehicle.
- Your vehicle has experienced a major loss of power.
- Your gas mileage has decreased.
- Your vehicle won't start.
Four Major Issues Related to the Check Engine Light
Several things can trigger your check engine light, but four major issues are almost always directly related to an illuminated check engine light.
1. The O2 sensor needs to be replaced.
The oxygen sensor measures the level of unburned oxygen in your vehicle's exhaust system. If the sensor isn't working right, you're burning more fuel than you should and could see lower gas mileage. A faulty sensor also can damage the catalytic converter and spark plugs.
2. The catalytic converter isn't working properly.
The catalytic converter turns harmful carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. Failing to keep up with regular maintenance can often lead to this component being damaged. That damage can trigger lower gas mileage and poor overall performance.
3. The mass airflow sensor needs to be replaced.
The mass airflow sensor monitors and controls the amount of air entering the engine to ensure efficient engine operation. Failing to replace the mass airflow sensor can harm the spark plugs, O2 sensors, or catalytic converter.
4. Spark plugs need to be replaced.
Your spark plugs “spark” the air and fuel mixture in your vehicle's combustion chamber. The spark plug wires supply the spark from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. Bad spark plugs can drag down the performance of your vehicle, cut down on gas mileage, clog the catalytic converter, or damage to ignition coils and O2 sensors.
Don't Ignore the Check Engine Light
You might be tempted to ignore your Nissan's check engine light when it comes on. However, that could be costly and dangerous.
If your check engine light is on, it means your Nissan is trying to communicate with you. It's best not to ignore your check engine light to ensure any small issues don't turn into larger problems down the road!
Is your Nissan's check engine light trying to tell you something? Head to an authorized Nissan retailer or service center to have your vehicle diagnosed to ensure everything is running as it should. For additional genuine parts and accessories, to ensure the part you're looking for will fit your Nissan's model and year.
Shop Nissan Oxygen Sensor Parts Shop Nissan Spark Plugs Shop All Nissan Engine Parts
Material in this article is for general information purposes only and was accurate as of the date of first publication. Information is subject to change and does not constitute an offer, representation or warranty (express or implied) by Nissan North America, Inc. ("Company"). Interested parties should confirm the accuracy of any information in this website as it relates to a vehicle directly with Company before relying on it to make a purchase decision. Unless expressly referenced, Company does not endorse and is not affiliated with any company that might be mentioned in this article. Company is not responsible or liable for the availability of links to websites or resources, or for any content, advertising, products, services, privacy policies, or other materials on or available through these websites or resources, or for your reliance thereon. Any references to data or products are subject to change without notice. Trademarks are property of their respective owners.
