Why is the check engine light blinking on my Toyota Highlander?

Possible Causes of a Blinking Check Engine Light on a Toyota Highlander
The check engine light on a Toyota Highlander can start blinking for various reasons. Here are some possible causes:
1. Severe engine misfire: A blinking check engine light usually indicates a severe engine misfire, which allows unburned fuel to be dumped into the exhaust system.
2. Catalyst damaging misfire: A flashing check engine light can also indicate a catalyst damaging misfire, which can potentially damage the catalytic converter and O2 sensors.
3. Fuel system issues: Problems with the fuel system, such as running too lean or rich, can cause the engine to misfire and trigger a blinking check engine light.
4. Ignition coil failure: On higher mileage vehicles, an engine misfire and a check engine light may be caused by a failed ignition coil. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace all the coils to prevent future issues.
It’s important to note that these are just possible causes, and a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic is recommended to determine the exact cause of the blinking check engine light.
What to Do if the Check Engine Light is Blinking
If the check engine light in your Toyota Highlander is blinking, it indicates a serious issue with the engine. Here’s what you should do:
1. Do not drive the vehicle: A flashing check engine light typically indicates a severe problem that requires immediate attention. It is recommended not to drive the vehicle and to schedule Toyota service as soon as possible.
2. Get a professional diagnosis: To accurately diagnose and address the issue, it is best to take your Toyota Highlander to a qualified mechanic or an authorized Toyota service center. They will be able to perform a thorough inspection, retrieve any error codes, and provide the necessary repairs.
Remember, it’s important to address a blinking check engine light promptly to prevent further damage to the vehicle and ensure its safe operation.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Is it worse if your check engine light is flashing or solid?

A solid check engine light indicates a problem that needs to be addressed but is typically not urgent. A flashing check engine light indicates a severe problem that requires immediate attention to avoid further damage.

Can I drive my car with the check engine light blinking?

A flashing light indicates a more serious problem like an overheating engine or engine misfires, which can cause irreversible damage. If the check engine light is flashing, you should stop, turn off the car, and call for assistance.

Why is my check engine light flashing and my car shaking Toyota?

A blinking Check Engine light means there’s something seriously wrong with the emissions system. The shaking suggests you’re having a misfire, which is dumping unburnt fuel into the exhaust, while making the engine shake. This is usually caused by a bad spark plug, ignition coil, or wiring.

How do I stop my check engine light from flashing?

5 Easy Steps to Reset Your Check Engine Light Flashing

1. 1) Get an OBD Scanner or Reader.
2. 2) Find your code on OBD Scanner.
3. 3) Google the code and understand what it means.
4. 4) Diagnose the malfunction.
5. 5) Erase the code and reset the scanner.

What is the most common cause of the flashing check engine light?

Most often it means that the engine is misfiring and unburned fuel is getting into the exhaust system.

What does a flashing check engine light mean Toyota?

engine misfire
If the check engine light in your Toyota starts glaring, that means that the problem needs sudden attention and your Toyota should be brought in quickly. This blinking light usually indicates a severe engine misfire allowing unburned fuel to be dumped into the exhaust system.

Why is my car shaking and check engine light flashing?

A blinking Check Engine light means there’s something seriously wrong with the emissions system. The shaking suggests you’re having a misfire, which is dumping unburnt fuel into the exhaust, while making the engine shake. This is usually caused by a bad spark plug, ignition coil, or wiring.

Can low oil cause blinking engine light?

However, low oil pressure, which can be caused by low oil levels, can be a reason for the check engine light to turn on. Low oil pressure can seriously interfere with your car’s performance and disable your vehicle if not addressed immediately.

Why is the engine light blinking on my Toyota Highlander?

If the check engine light in your 2021 Toyota Highlander starts flashing, that means that the problem needs immediate attention and your Toyota should be brought in quickly. This shining light usually indicates a relentless engine misfire allowing unburned fuel to be dumped into the exhaust system.

Which is worse flashing or solid check engine light?

A solid check engine light indicates a problem that needs to be addressed but is typically not urgent. A flashing check engine light indicates a severe problem that requires immediate attention to avoid further damage.