MIL - Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Blink. Hey! Your car is talking to you. The light on your dashboard may say "check engine," or "service engine soon," but it's your car's way of telling you something is wrong.

Cars built since 1986 have been equipped with on-board computers ("on-board diagnostic" or "OBD" systems) designed to alert you to the first sign of trouble. OBD systems monitor your vehicle's operation and performance, and give you advance warning to perform maintenance. Since 1996, the second generation of this technology has been installed in new cars - called OBD2.

Sometimes the warning light (called the MIL -- Malfunction Indicator Lamp) comes on for something simple, like a loose gas cap. Still, any time this warning light comes on, seek professional help. Don't wait for your normal maintenance time. If the MIL comes on, see a qualified mechanic or service technician NOW.

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