How to Get Top Dollar for Your Junk Car

Posted on January 31, 2023 by junkcars17

Are you looking to sell a junk car for cash? If so, you’re in luck! There are many junk car buyers out there who will pay top dollar for your old vehicle. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best ways to sell your junk car and get the most money possible. We’ll also provide tips on how to find reputable junk car buyers and make sure you get paid quickly.

So, keep reading if you want to learn more about selling your junk car for top dollar!

Call 317-608-2188 for Fast Cash for Cars in Indianapolis!

Guide to Selling a Junk Car for Good Money

Documents and Proof of Ownership

The first step to selling a junk car for cash is to make sure you have all the necessary paperwork in order. In the best case scenario, this would include your vehicle registration, title, and if applicable, insurance. But really, all you need is the title. That will be used to provide proof of ownership. Other documents that might also prove ownership and accepted by junk car buyers are a bill of sale or the original purchase receipt with your signature on it. Having these documents will help ensure you get top dollar for your junk car.

Junk Car Buyers in Indianapolis

Next, it’s important to do your research and find the right Indianapolis junk car buyers. There are many auto salvage yards and auto scrappers willing pay cash for junk cars, but not all of them are reputable or offer fair prices. Make sure you compare prices and read customer reviews before making any decisions. You can also get a better idea of the car’s value by checking out online marketplaces like Craigslist or eBay.

Junk Car Appraisal and Offer

Once you’ve found the right buyer, it’s time to negotiate a price. Be sure to set realistic expectations and be prepared to haggle for the best deal possible. It’s also important to remember that the more time you spend negotiating, the better chance you have of getting top dollar for your junk car.

Finally, make sure all agreements are in writing and that payment is made quickly. Reputable junk car buyers will typically provide a receipt for any cash payments and handle all paperwork associated with selling your car.

Get Started With Junk Car Selling Today!

That’s all you need to know about how to sell a junk car for top dollar! With the right paperwork, research, and negotiation tactics, you should be able to sell your junk car and get the most money possible. Good luck selling your junk car!

So where can you find a junk car buying business that provides all these services and beyond? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer!

10 Common Signs of an Unhealthy Car Engine

Posted on January 17, 2023 by junkcars17

The car engine is the heart of your car and needs to be in top shape for it to perform at its best. But when something goes wrong, it can cause a lot of problems that could lead to costly car repairs or even engine replacement. That’s why it’s important to know the signs that indicate an unhealthy car engine so you can take action as soon as possible.

Continue below to learn the top 10 common signs of an unhealthy car engine that you should look out for.

To Sell Broken Motor in Indianapolis, Call 317-608-2188 for the best offer.

10 Signs That Suggest You Need Engine Repair or Replacement

1. Unusual Noises: If you start hearing strange noises coming from under the hood, it could mean that something is wrong with your car engine and needs to be repaired as soon as possible.

2. Stalling or Hesitation: If your car stalls or hesitates when you press the accelerator, this could indicate a problem with the car engine and should be checked out.

3. Poor Acceleration: If your car struggles to accelerate, it could indicate that the car engine isn’t functioning properly.

4. Unusual Smells: Any strange smells coming from under the hood of your car can mean there is something wrong with the car engine, so take it to the mechanic for a car engine repair.

5. Overheating Engine: If you notice your car’s temperature gauge rising above normal levels, your car engine is likely overheating, which means it needs to be checked out by a professional as soon as possible.

6. Loss of Power: If you notice your car losing power, it could be a sign that the car engine is malfunctioning and needs to be serviced as soon as possible.

7. Vibrations: If your car starts vibrating while you’re driving, this could indicate a problem with the car engine which should be inspected by a mechanic right away.

8. Excessive Exhaust Smoke: If you see excessive smoke coming from your car’s exhaust pipe, it could be a sign of an unhealthy car engine and should be checked out by a professional.

9. Leaking Oil: Any leaks coming from the car engine can indicate that something is wrong with your car and should be taken to a car engine repair shop as soon as possible.

10. Decreased Fuel Efficiency: If your car isn’t getting the fuel efficiency it used to, this could indicate a problem with the car engine which needs to be looked at by a professional.

Good Car Maintenance Can Protect You From Costly Engine Repairs

Being aware of these 10 common signs of an unhealthy car engine can help you take preventative action and avoid costly car repairs or even a blown engine. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s important to get your car checked out right away so that the car engine repair or replacement can be done as soon as possible.

Average Cost of Car Engine Replacement

Replacing a car engine may be one of the most expensive car repairs that a car owner could experience. The cost of car engine replacement varies widely, but typically falls in the range of $3,000 to $4,500, depending on vehicle make and model as well as complexity of the replacement job. It is always important to shop around for the best rates and compare quotes from different repair shops to make sure that you are getting a good price. You should also take into account the type and quality of car parts used when considering car engine replacement costs. By taking these steps to ensure you are getting a fair price, you can save yourself time and money in the long run.

What To Do if You Can’t Afford to Repair Your Car Engine

Selling a car with a broken engine can easily be done by junk car buyers, more commonly known as auto salvage yards. These junk car dealers are always looking for scrap metal and usable parts from junk cars in order to refurbish and resell them. As long as the junk car has body integrity, it can still provide scrap metal to the junk car buyer. Once your junk car is evaluated and the cost determined, you’ll know the potential worth of selling it to an auto salvage yard right away. Once payment is made you can have it removed from your property quickly, so you no longer need to keep dealing with it or its broken engine.

Searching for junk car buyers that provide the highest level of service and convenience? Look no further–you’ve come to the right place! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer!

5 Tips for Selling Your Junk Car Quickly

Posted on December 23, 2022 by junkcars17

Do you have an old junk car that’s taking up space on your property? If so, selling it quickly can be a challenge. But with the right approach and some patience, you can get cash for junk cars in no time. In this blog post, we’ll share our top five tips to help you sell your junk car quickly and easily. From finding the right Indianapolis junk car buyer to negotiating a fair price, these simple steps will make sure you get the most out of selling your junk vehicle. So, let’s dive in!

Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Junk Car in Indianapolis Indiana.

How to Sell a Junk Car Faster Than You Can Say “Cha-Ching!”

1. Research Indianapolis junk car buyers in your area: The first step to successfully selling your junk car is researching the junk car buyers in your vicinity. Look for established auto salvage companies with a good reputation and competitive cash for cars offers. A quick online search should provide you with a list of junk car buyers in Indianapolis, making it easy to compare prices and pick the best option.

2. Gather all necessary paperwork: As you research scrap yards in Indianapolis, make sure to gather up all the required documents needed to sell your junk car. These typically include a valid title and proof of ownership, vehicle registration papers, and other documents that may vary by junk car buyer or state.

3. Get an estimate of your junk car’s value: Before you reach out to junk car buyers, take some time to get an accurate valuation of your junk vehicle. This will help make sure you don’t accept a low-ball offer from a junk yard or auto salvage company in Indianapolis. You can find online tools for estimating junk car values, or get an evaluation from an experienced junk car scrapper.

4. Negotiate a fair price: Once you have an estimate of your junk car’s value, you can start negotiating with junk yards and auto salvage companies to get the best Indianapolis cash for cars offer. Don’t be afraid to shop around and compare prices between junk car buyers. This can help ensure that you get a fair price for your junk vehicle.

5. Prepare the junk car before selling: To make sure you get top dollar for your junk car, it’s important to prepare it properly before selling. This includes cleaning out any debris and personal items from the interior, making sure the junk car is in the condition you claimed it was, and ensuring that all paperwork is filled out correctly.

Obtain the Best Possible Cash for Cars Experience

By following these tips, you can maximize your junk car’s value while minimizing the time it takes to get cash for junk cars. With a bit of luck and patience, you should be able to find a reliable Indianapolis junk car buyer quickly and get a great cash offer.

Looking for junk car buying professionals who offer the highest level of service and convenience? Look no further – you’ve found us! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer!

How to Get Tree Sap Off a Car

Posted on December 13, 2022 by junkcars17

If you’ve ever had the displeasure of getting tree sap on your car, you know it can be a real pain to get off. Not only is it sticky and difficult to remove, but it can also damage the paint on your car if not taken care of properly. And although this time of year, tree sap flow rates slow down a little, there are still trees producing this sticky, hard-to-clean residue.

In this post, we’ll show you how to get tree sap off your car quickly and easily.

Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Junk Car to Our Auto Salvage Lot in Indianapolis!

Tree Sap Removal for Cars and Trucks

Tree sap can be a real nuisance when it comes to cars and trucks. Not only is it difficult to remove, but it can also damage the paint on your car if not taken care of properly. Thankfully, there are a few methods you can use to remove tree sap from your car or truck quickly and easily.

The first step in removing tree sap from your car is to gently wash the surface with a mild soap and water. This will help remove some of the loose debris and any dirt or dust that has accumulated on top of the sap. You may need to repeat this process several times before all of the sap is removed.

Once you’ve washed the surface, you can use a light rubbing compound to gently scrub away any remaining sap. Start with a small area and rub in the direction of the grain. This will help to ensure that all of the sap is removed without causing any damage to your car’s paint finish.

If you still have some stubborn sap leftover after washing and scrubbing, you may need to use a solvent. Turpentine and mineral spirits are both effective solvents that can help remove tree sap from your car. Apply the solvent directly onto the sap with a clean cloth and let sit for one or two minutes before wiping off.

If the area is still sticky after using a solvent, you may need to use a degreaser. Choose one specifically designed for automotive use and apply it directly onto the sap with a clean cloth. Let it sit for several minutes before scrubbing gently in circular motions to remove any remaining residue.

Last Resort Options for a Tree Sap Covered Car

If all else fails, you can always take your car or truck to an auto body shop. The technicians there can use special chemicals to remove the sap without damaging your car’s paint finish. However, if you are cleaning up a car to resale or scrap at a local auto salvage yard, you might not be interested in paying for any more automotive services. If you are junking the car, don’t worry too much about the sappy mess– auto scrappers accept all make and model vehicles no matter the condition.

Conclusion

These are just a few tips on how to get tree sap off of your car or truck quickly and easily. Remember, always use a light hand when scrubbing and be sure to follow the directions on any solvent or cleaner you use. Following these steps will help to ensure that the tree sap is removed without causing any damage to your car’s paint finish. Good luck!

Is your car reaching the end of its life? You can make money fast by selling it today! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 and get started on the junk car selling process in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our cash for cars buyers will give you cash right away for all vehicles no matter their condition, plus free junk car removal! No extra charges ever – what more could you ask for?

The Rising Costs of Owning a Vehicle

Posted on November 14, 2022 by junkcars17

If you’re a driver, then you know that the costs of auto repair can be pretty high. But what you may not realize is that the total cost of owning and operating a vehicle can be even higher. In fact, according to a new study from AAA, the average cost of owning and operating a vehicle in the United States is now $8,849 per year.

That’s right – the average cost of owning and operating a vehicle in the United States is now over $8,000 per year. And that number is only going to go up as the years go by. So, what’s driving up the cost of owning a car? Well, there are a few factors. Let’s scroll down to continue exploring this intriguing topic.

Call Our Indianapolis Auto Salvage Yard at 317-608-2188 Today!

Cost Breakdown For Car Ownership

Gas Prices are Insane

For one, the cost of gasoline has been on the rise in recent years. In fact, according to AAA, the average price of gasoline in the United States is now $2.64 per gallon. That’s up from $2.51 per gallon just a year ago. And as gas prices continue to rise, and so too will the cost of owning and operating a vehicle.

Car Insurance Isn’t Getting Cheaper

Another factor driving up the cost of car ownership is the cost of auto insurance. According to AAA, the average cost of auto insurance in the United States is now $1,555 per year. That’s up from $1,503 just a year ago. And as the costs of auto insurance continue to rise, so too will the cost of owning a car.

Auto Maintenance is Pricey

Finally, the cost of vehicle maintenance and repairs is also on the rise. According to AAA, the average cost of maintaining and repairing a vehicle in the United States is now $1,049 per year. That’s up from $1,021 just a year ago. And as the costs of vehicle maintenance and repairs continue to rise, so will the cost of owning a vehicle too.

Reconsider Buying a Car That is Brand New

So, what does all this mean for you? Well, if you’re thinking about buying a new car, you might want to think twice. The cost of owning and operating a vehicle is only going to go up in the years to come. And that means that your monthly car payment is only going to get higher and higher.

How to Save Money on Car Ownership Expenses

But don’t worry, there are still ways to save money on your vehicle ownership costs. For one, you can always buy a used car instead of a new one. Used cars are often much cheaper to own and operate than new cars. And they can still get you from point A to point B just as easily as a new car can.

You can also save money on your car ownership costs by shopping around for the best deals on auto insurance. There are a number of different auto insurance companies out there, and each one offers its own set of rates and discounts.

Do you have a car that is not worth investing any more money into? Would you like to make fast cash by selling your junk car? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get started on the car selling process, today! Our Indianapolis IN junk car buyers pay cash on the spot for all vehicles, no matter the condition! Plus, we offer free junk car removal! No hidden fees, ever!

How Long Do Vehicles Last?

Posted on November 3, 2022 by junkcars17

How long do cars last? It’s a question we hear a lot, and unfortunately, there’s no easy answer. Cars are complex machines with many different parts, and each part has its own lifespan. So, when it comes to figuring out how long a car will last, it really depends on a number of factors.

Continue below to learn which factors impact the total lifespan of a car or truck, from the date it is manufactured to the time it has driven its very last mile. Stick around to the end for a bonus tip on how to make the most out of a junk car that is no longer worth repairing!

Your Trusted Indianapolis Scrap Yard! Call 317-608-2188 Today!

Factors That Impact the Lifespan of a Car or Truck

What influences the number of years a car or truck will last after it is built and sold to its first owner? Well, there are a number of variables to consider when estimating this automotive timeline. The first factor is the quality of the car. A high-quality car that’s well-made and uses high-quality parts is likely to last longer than a lower-quality car. The second factor is how the car is used. A car that’s driven gently and regularly serviced is likely to last longer than a car that’s driven hard and not serviced as often.

The third factor is the environment. A car that’s driven in a hot climate is likely to have a shorter lifespan than a car that’s driven in a cooler climate. And finally, the fourth factor is luck. Some cars just seem to last forever, while others have problems early on and don’t make it to their full potential.

So, when you’re wondering how long a car will last, keep these factors in mind. There’s no easy answer, but with a little bit of knowledge, you can get a better idea of what to expect from your vehicle. With that being said, at some point in time your vehicle will be totaled, meaning its current market value is below the cost to maintain it as an operational vehicle. In the automotive insurance industry, this is referred to as a total loss vehicle.

Total Loss Vehicles and Insurance Standards

A total loss vehicle is one that is so damaged, it’s not economical or safe to repair. When a car is totaled, the insurance company pays you the market value of your car minus the deductible on your policy. If you still owe money on the car, the lender will get paid first from the insurance payout. You may be able to buy back your totaled car from the insurance company, but it’s usually not worth it. Total loss claims are one of the most common claims made on auto insurance policies.

If your vehicle is not insured, you can choose to scrap it at a local Indianapolis auto salvage yard and get paid for its actual cash value. You can then put your earnings toward a new vehicle purchase. Not only junk car sales profitable for you as the junk car owner, but it is also a magnificent effort toward one of the most critical global efforts to preserve our natural resources, create jobs, boost the economy, and much more. Just be sure to choose a qualified and reputable Cash for Cars Company in Indianapolis to get the best payout, the most convenient amenities, and assurance that your junk car will be recycled responsibly.

Are you ready to learn how much your junk car will get you? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell your junk car in Indianapolis, Indiana for cash on the spot! We provide free junk car removal, so we come to you!

Do Scrap Metal Prices Matter When Selling a Junk Car?

Posted on October 19, 2022 by junkcars17

If you’re looking to get the best price for your junk car in Indianapolis, it’s important to keep an eye on the scrap metal market and understand how such prices fluctuate. Continue below to learn why scrap metal values are a critical element in determining the total value of a junk car, plus where to get the most cash for junk cars in Indiana.

Sell a Junked Car in Indianapolis Indiana 317-608-2188

The Variations in Scrap Metal Prices

The prices of scrap metal can vary greatly, depending on the type of metal and the current market conditions. Generally speaking, however, the cash value of a junk car is directly proportional to the price of scrap metal. In other words, if scrap metal prices are high, the cash value of a junk car will be high as well; if scrap metal prices are low, the cash value of a junk car will be correspondingly low.

The current scrap metal prices in the Indianapolis area are quite reasonable. You will likely get a good amount of money for your scrap metal without having to worry about haggling too much. This is great news for those of us who are trying to make some extra money by recycling our old metals, especially junk cars.

Metal in Junk Cars

There’s a lot of metal in a junk car. Enough to make it worth your while to scrap it if you’re looking to make some quick cash. But how much metal is actually in a junk car? A typical junk car contains about 1,000 pounds of steel and iron. This doesn’t include the weight of other metals like copper, aluminum, and lead. So, if you’re looking to scrap a junk car in Indianapolis, you could stand to make a decent chunk of change!

Of course, the amount of money you’ll make from scrapping your junk car will depend on the current market value of metals. But regardless of the market conditions, there’s always going to be a decent amount of metal in a junk car. So, if you’re looking to get rid of an old car or clunker, scrapping it is always worth considering.

How to Learn Your Junk Car Value

To get the most accurate estimate of your junk car’s value, it’s best to check with a local Indianapolis auto salvage yard or junk car buyer. They will be able to give you the most up-to-date information on current scrap metal prices, as well as provide you with an estimate of how much your car is worth.

Are you ready to get in touch with an Indy-based junk car buyer right now? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get started with the junk car selling process in Indiana. We serve all of Central Indiana, including Avon, Bloomington, Greenfield, and Zionsville.

Do I Need to Get an Oil Change?

Posted on October 6, 2022 by junkcars17

The car’s oil is one of the most important fluids, and it needs to be changed regularly in order to keep the car running properly. If you’re unsure whether or not your car needs an oil change, it’s always best to consult with a professional mechanic. They can help you determine if it’s time for a change, and they can also perform the task for you.

In the meantime, continue below to learn the common signs that suggest you need an oil change, why oil changes are important, and what might happen if you skip your regularly-scheduled oil change service.

Junk Car Buyers Indianapolis Indiana 317-608-2188

When to Change Your Oil

There are a few different signs that suggest you need an oil change, so it’s important to be aware of them. One common sign that your car needs an oil change is if the oil level is low. You can check this by looking at the dipstick; if the oil level is below the minimum line, then it’s time for a change. Another sign is if the oil looks dark and dirty. This means that it’s not doing its job of lubricating and cooling the engine as effectively, so it needs to be replaced.

If your car’s engine is making strange noises, this can also be a sign that the oil needs to be changed. If you notice any knocking or ticking sounds, it’s best to get it checked out by a mechanic. Finally, if your car is due for an oil change according to the manufacturer’s schedule, then it’s definitely time to get it done. Don’t put it off, as old, dirty oil can cause serious damage to your engine.

Refer to the Owners’ Manual for Your Oil Change Schedule

Oil changes are an important part of maintaining your vehicle. Not only do they keep your engine running smoothly, but they also help to prolong the life of your car. Depending on your driving habits, you should change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual to see what the specific recommendation is for your car. You can also ask your handy automotive mechanic for their advice.

What to Expect From Oil Change Service

When you bring your car in for an oil change, a team of certified technicians will drain the old oil and replace it with fresh, new oil. They will also check your other fluids and make sure that your tires are properly inflated. All of this helps to keep your car running at peak performance. So, don’t put off your oil change any longer. Schedule an appointment as recommended by your owners’ manual or mechanic so that you can keep your car on the road for miles to come.

Consequences of Driving With Low or No Oil

If you drive with low oil, it can cause your engine to seize up. This means that the engine will no longer be able to turn over, and you will not be able to start your car. If this happens, it can cause serious damage to your engine. In some cases, it may even require a new engine. This can sometimes cost more than what your car is actually worth. In this case, consider selling a totaled car to an Indianapolis junk car buyer for cash on the spot.

Is your car totaled because of a broken down engine? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car in India n apolis, Indiana. We offer free junk car removal, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! Request a free estimate, today.

What You Need to Know About Your Fire Damaged Vehicle

Posted on September 26, 2022 by junkcars17

If your car catches fire, there are some things you need to know about insurance coverage and the claims process. Since there are different scenarios that can cause a car to catch fire, you can expect to come across different limits of coverage and procedure for each. Continue reading to learn some basic information about car insurance claims and coverage in the case that a vehicle is burned down in a fire.

Car Scrappers Indianapolis Indiana 317-608-2188

Not All Car Fires Render a Totaled Car

Car fires will clearly do a lot of damage to a vehicle. In most cases, cars are rendered a total loss after an engine or chassis fire. Fortunately, most insurance policies offer additional coverage for fires. This is called “comprehensive coverage”, and it will cover damages caused by a fire regardless of how the blaze occurred. However, this type of coverage must be purchased before a fire occurs. Some of the most common causes for automotive fires include car accidents, engine fires, garage fires, and arson.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents are one of the most common causes for car fires. Serious vehicular collisions and accidents can damage fuel lines and fuel tanks, which leads to gasoline leakages. A tiny spark from metal colliding together is all it takes for combustion to happen. This is often the reason why fires break out after a car accident.

In terms of insurance coverage, the answer can be complex. Depending on how the blaze occurred and the parameters of your coverage, the damage could fall under comprehensive or collision. It is necessary to discuss this with your insurance adjuster to learn the details pertaining to your particular policy. If you do not have collision coverage insurance, there is still a possibility that it could be covered under comprehensive.

Garage Fires

In the case of garage fires, which are more common than you think, vehicles can experience a severe amount of damage. Most of the time, they are rendered totaled. Because garage fires are commonly caused by a household hazard or malfunction, people tend to assume that homeowners’ insurance will cover the damages to their vehicles; but the truth is that homeowners’ insurance never covers vehicles. Instead, cars damaged in garage fires are only covered under comprehensive coverage.

Engine Fires

Engine fires generally result in a total loss vehicle. That is because the cost to purchase and install a new engine is often close to the actual cash value of the vehicle. In this case, comprehensive coverage will cover engine fires. However, it is important to know that car insurance policies do not typically cover mechanical defects in car engines. Fires are the exception to this rule. Whether a vehicle is a total loss or not, a car insurance policy will likely pay the actual cash value of the vehicle minus the owner’s insurance deductible.

Arson

There’s not much to say about the criminal act of arson, except that it does happen to vehicles and the damages can be covered by car insurance policies. Comprehensive coverage covers vandalism, so if a vehicle is intentionally set on fire, the damages are covered so long as a police report is made.

Sell a Burned Car in Indianapolis for Cash on the Spot

If your car is damaged in a fire, you likely have a total loss vehicle on your hands. Sell your totaled car for cash on the spot to a local junk car buyer. They will pay you cash for the actual cash value of your vehicle. This is sometimes more than what you can get from your insurance company!

Not sure which Cash for Cars Company in Indy to trust for the highest junk car payout? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to speak with a licensed and qualified junk car buyer about scrapping a burned vehicle in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide free phone quotes and junk car removal!

Why is My Check Engine Light Flashing?

Posted on September 15, 2022 by junkcars17

Uh oh. Your Check Engine Light icon just lit up. And instead of being the usual solid symbol or phrase, it is flashing. Is this nothing to worry about? Does this mean something serious? Continue below to learn some of the most common reasons why Check Engine Lights come on, including the meanings behind solid and flashing symbols.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

Check Engine Light Diagnosis

Before diving into the difference between a flashing Check Engine Light and a solid one, let’s cover some of the most common reasons why Check Engine Lights illuminate in the first place. Answer some questions, like “Did you just add fuel to your tank with gas?” or “Did your car jolt or vibrate the last time you drove it?” The answers to these questions can help you narrow down the cause behind the symbol. If you forgot to tighten your gas cap all the way, for instance, your car’s onboard computer system will trigger the Check Engine Light to turn on. If you felt a jolting, jerking, or vibrating movement from your car the last time you drove it, the culprit could be a quick fix like a worn spark plug.

Flashing Check Engine Light Versus Solid

For most vehicles, the Check Engine Light will illuminate in all its glory as a solid symbol or phrase to warn against minor to moderate problems. Some vehicles have a Check Engine Light that comes up solid or flashing. In vehicles that only have a solid Check Engine Light symbol, the color of the icon might change from sun colors to red to indicate a more serious issue.

If the symbol or phrase are flashing, it generally indicates a more serious problem. A flashing Check Engine Light suggests that you have an automotive emergency and should have your vehicle towed, that’s right, towed to the nearest mechanic shop for diagnosis. Driving with the Check Engine Light on is dangerous because it poses several safety risks, but also does a lot of damage to a vehicle.

Common reasons for a flashing Check Engine Light are engine misfiring and overheating. Both of these mechanical defects can do significant damage to the internal parts of the engine block, including cylinders, pistons, spark plugs, and more.

Red Check Engine Light

As mentioned, in addition to solid and flashing, Check Engine Lights can also be different colors, which might signify different types of mechanical needs. In most vehicles, a yellow or orange Check Engine Light denotes a minor to moderate mechanical, safety, or performance issue in a vehicle. If the light turns red, it is indicating an automotive repair emergency. In this case, a car should never be driven.

Did your car’s diagnosis come back totaled? Not to worry! You can still make a generous profit by selling it to a trusted Cash for Cars Company near you! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to speak with a certified Indianapolis junk car buyer for details on how to get started! We offer free junk car removal and accept all old or broken auto parts!