Engine light malfunction?

DEBBIE1988

MEMBER
2011 NISSAN MICRA
1.2L
2WD
MANUAL
150,000 MILES

I have recently purchased the vehicle listed above preowned, it passed its MOT in Jan, however I have found issues with it since buying it, I have just repaired the stabilizing ball joints, front brake pads and discs and all 4 tires, so I have invested a lot into it.

The mechanic noticed that the engine warning light doesn’t come on when the key is turned and told me that this would then fail the next MOT as is. They ran a check and noticed the codes had been deleted so there was no data. The car seems to run fine now, and the engine sounds / seems fine. But there is no light at all which has made me concerned.

The garage was not able to resolve the issue and said I’d need to go elsewhere, but I’m not sure where to go or how much this could cost me, as obviously I’ve spent a lot more than expected getting it all up and running well. Any advice would be appreciated, thanks!

1 Reply

BRENDON S

MECHANIC
653 POSTS

Good morning, DEBBIE1988,

Unfortunately, your vehicle was not available in the United States, so I don't have a lot of information for you.

I would check all my fuses using a test light. I am adding an article for you that will help walk you through the procedure. It's very easy.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

Replace any blown fuses and see if the light is back on.

Since it sounds like the mechanic could find out there are no codes, meaning his scan tool can communicate with the computer it might not be a fuse issue but it's good practice to check anyway.

It is possible the bulb or LED has burnt out. Other possibilities included someone messing with it, so it doesn't come on to sell the vehicle or a damaged Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Sometimes if there is an issue with the PCM it will keep resetting itself and not store any codes.

If no fuses are found to be burnt out. I would drive it for a bit and then have a mechanic put a scan tool on it or go to a local auto parts store and see if there are any codes. Eventually they will come back, so getting it checked periodically for codes will help determine if there are any issues.

If none are found after driving it and checking for periodically you will need someone to check the wiring and see if the bulb is out. They should also check the PCM to see if it is damaged.

I would start there and see what you can find out.

Thank you,
Brendon
2CarPros

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