Q: What does it mean when the MIL stays on after car if shut off?

asked by on May 26, 2017

The check engine light comes on when I turn the vehicle off?

My car has 146251 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

You may have a sticking EFI relay in the main fuse box in the engine compartment. This relay if stuck on can keep power to the computer to turn on check engine light. Replace the relay and then retest.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Convertible not working.
Hi. If your top will not longer move up or down it can be from a number of items in the system from a fuse, to a wiring issue, to the lift motor. The most common part that I have...
Vehicle stalls when I drive over bumps
When an engine stalls, it is usually due to lack of one or two things: Either the ignition system temporarily quit working properly, or the fuel system temporarily quit working properly. It is also possible that you may have an...
Oil pressure drops to 0 "stabilitrak" issue across message center traction control shuts off but oil sending unit was just replaced
The first thing to do is to have the Check Engine Light scanned (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) to see what code is stored. Once this is done, then the code should be diagnosed to see if it has anything to do with the...
I now know my catalytic converter is bad can I still drive it to work til I have it fixed in a day, I drive one way 65 miles
Although you catalytic converter may still allow the car to run, there is often times no telling when it will cause the car to not run. As you have experienced, this will cause the car to get very poor fuel...
Does the dipstick tube just pull out of the block or are there retaining clips?
To answer your first question: yes, it does have a bracket on the oil dipstick tube but, if you remove the bracket, it will pull out. Your dipstick is going to have some curves in it; this is normal for...
Car cuts off when sitting still and idling. What could that be that is causing it to do that
This may be related to a dirty or failing idle air control valve. The idle air control valve monitors the air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the engine at low speeds and at...
Should I buy an Acura tl 2009 with an engine replacement at 70k miles?
If a used engine was installed, to make a wise decision you would need to know exactly how many miles were accumulated on that used engine PRIOR to its transplant to the car that you are looking at. However, if...
Can a camshaft position sensor make my SUV have the code p0300 multiple misfire?
If the camshaft position sensor waveform output is abnormal (as viewed on an automotive scope), that can cause misfiring but such must first be confirmed by actually testing the sensor especially as there are many, many causes of misfiring and,...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser
If If you’re looking for a hint of nostaligia in an SUV that can actually handle off-roading like a pro, the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser is the perfect choice for you. Designed specifically for tackling those off-road jaunts, what this...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Anti-Lock Fuse Or Relay
Common signs include the ABS Light turning on, tires locking up regularly, and a blown fuse.
How Long Does an ECM-Power Relay Last?
As As technology continues to advance and move forward, so does the way our vehicles operate and run. It seems more and more parts rely on computers and sensors than ever before. The ECM-power relay is an excellent example of...