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Ed Hicks INFINITI
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Home / Maintenance & Repair / What a Flashing Check Engine Light Means for Your INFINITI

What a Flashing Check Engine Light Means for Your INFINITI

Is your INFINITI’s check engine light flashing or blinking? Learn what it means, what causes it, and why immediate service at Ed Hicks INFINITI in Corpus Christi is essential.

Your INFINITI was designed to deliver exceptional performance with elegance and precision. So when something’s off—like a check engine light flashing on your dashboard—it’s not just a nuisance. It’s a signal that your vehicle’s performance is being compromised.

If you’re asking, “Why is my check engine light flashing?” or wondering whether it’s okay to continue to drive, you’re in the right place. Let’s look at what causes a flashing check engine light, what it could mean for your INFINITI, and what steps you should take next.

Flashing vs. Steady: Why the Difference Matters

Your INFINITI’s onboard diagnostics system continuously monitors your engine’s performance. When it detects a problem, it activates the check engine light. But how that light appears is just as important as why it appears.

  • A steady check engine light typically indicates a non-urgent issue, such as a loose gas cap or minor sensor fault.
  • A blinking or flashing check engine light, however, suggests a severe problem—most commonly an engine misfire—that requires immediate attention.

In short, a flashing check engine light is not something to ignore.

What Does a Flashing Check Engine Light Mean?

The most common answer is that your engine is misfiring. A misfire occurs when one or more engine cylinders fail to ignite fuel properly, which can allow unburned fuel to enter your exhaust system. This poses a serious risk to your catalytic converter, engine health, and fuel efficiency.

Let’s explore the top causes of a check engine light blinking.

1. Engine Misfire

An engine misfire causes your vehicle to run unevenly, feel underpowered, or shake at idle. It may be caused by:

  • Faulty spark plugs or ignition coils
  • Bad fuel injectors
  • Timing issues
  • Low compression in one or more cylinders

2. Failing Oxygen Sensor

Your oxygen sensor plays a key role in managing fuel efficiency and emissions. When it fails, it disrupts your engine’s fuel-air balance, leading to performance issues and possible misfires.

3. Catalytic Converter Problems

The catalytic converter transforms harmful gases into safer emissions. If unburned fuel reaches the converter (often due to a misfire), it can overheat or become clogged, triggering a flashing check engine light and reducing your vehicle’s power.

4. Faulty EGR Valve

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve helps reduce emissions by recirculating exhaust gases back into the engine. If it sticks open or fails, it can alter your engine’s combustion process and lead to a check engine light blinking.

5. Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction

Speed sensors control various performance and safety systems. When a sensor fails, it can affect timing and fuel delivery—sometimes causing engine misfires and other driveability concerns.

Can I Keep Driving If My Check Engine Light Is Blinking?

It’s not recommended. If your check engine light is flashing, continuing to drive can result in:

  • Permanent engine damage
  • A ruined catalytic converter
  • Poor fuel economy
  • A sudden breakdown on the road

Your INFINITI is engineered for smooth, high-performance driving. A misfiring engine puts that experience at risk. If you notice engine problems, visit your local service center right away.

Precision Care for Your INFINITI—Only at Ed Hicks INFINITI

At Ed Hicks INFINITI in Corpus Christi, we understand that your vehicle is more than just transportation—it’s an experience. When warning lights show up, it’s not just about fixing a problem. It’s about restoring the performance and confidence you expect from your INFINITI.

Our certified technicians use advanced diagnostic tools to identify the issue quickly and accurately. Whether it’s a misfire, a sensor issue, or something more complex, we’ll handle it with the care your luxury vehicle deserves.

Your vehicle was made to perform. Let’s keep it that way. Schedule your service appointment and visit us today.

Ed Hicks INFINITI

3026 S Padre Island Dr
Corpus Christi, TX 78415

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Material in this article is for general information purposes only and was accurate as of the date of first publication. Information is subject to change and does not constitute an offer, representation or warranty (express or implied) by the Hicks Auto Group ("Company"). Interested parties should confirm the accuracy of any information in this website as it relates to a vehicle directly with Company before relying on it to make a purchase decision. Unless expressly referenced, Company does not endorse and is not affiliated with any company that might be mentioned in this article. Company is not responsible or liable for the availability of links to websites or resources, or for any content, advertising, products, services, privacy policies, or other materials on or available through these websites or resources, or for your reliance thereon. Any references to data or products are subject to change without notice. Trademarks are property of their respective owners.
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