Malfunction Indicator Lights: Notes

The CHECK ENGINE light is also referred to as Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). The MIL is displayed in instrument cluster as CHECK ENGINE. MIL can be displayed in 2 modes flashing (intermittent failure) and on steady (hard failure). The Reduced Power Lamp (RPL) is displayed in instrument cluster as REDUCED POWER. RPL illuminates when PCM detects a system fault resulting in reduced engine output. Both MIL and RPL indicators should illuminates when ignition is turned on, and turn off seconds after engine is started. If either indicator remains illuminated after vehicle is running, scan tool should be used to read any stored DTCs. See RETRIEVING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES  under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM. If both MIL and RPL remain illuminated after vehicle is running, a serious problem affecting vehicle performance is indicated.