Understanding Your Check Engine Light: What It Means and What to Do
May 13, 2025
When your check engine light comes on, it can feel overwhelming.

Is it something minor—or something serious? Modern vehicles rely on sensors to watch everything from emissions to engine performance. When something goes wrong, even a little problem can trigger the light.
Sometimes, it’s as simple as a loose gas cap. Other times, it could point to an issue with your engine, transmission, or exhaust system. Ignoring the check engine light could lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the road.
At David’s Automotive Repair, we believe in giving you honest answers. Our advanced testing and analysis service can pinpoint the issue quickly and recommend the best solution. Don’t gamble with your car’s health—getting answers now could save you money and stress later.
If you see that check engine light, call 972-625-1836
today to schedule your reservation. We’ll get you back on the road with confidence!

Your cabin filter helps trap dust , pollen , and road debris before it reaches the inside of your vehicle. During hot and dry summer months, those particles increase. If the filter gets clogged, it can: Reduce airflow from your vents Make your A/C work harder Fill the cabin with musty air. If your car smells stale, the air seems weak, or your allergies act up while driving, your cabin filter might be overdue for a change. Replacing it is a simple fix that makes a big difference—especially if you’re planning a summer trip or spending more time in the car. Call 972-625-1836 to schedule a reservation and let us check your cabin filter. Breathe easy and stay cool this summer.

These are called ADAS , or Advanced Driver Assistance Systems . They’re especially helpful during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer . Features like: Blind spot monitoring Lane keep assist Automatic emergency braking These systems work in the background to help drivers stay safe. But for these systems to work properly, everything needs to be clean, connected, and calibrated. Summer dust, bugs, and road grime can block cameras and sensors without you even noticing. A dirty lens or damaged sensor could stop these features from working. This can be a big risk—especially for teen drivers or families taking road trips. If your car’s warning lights are on, or if your safety features seem off, don’t ignore it. We can help test and reset these systems so they work the way they’re meant to. Call 972-625-1836 to schedule a reservation and let us help keep your family safe this summer.

It’s a common North Texas summer issue, and it doesn’t always mean something serious. But it does mean your vehicle needs attention. Heat can put extra stress on your engine, sensors, and emissions system. A loose gas cap , a misfiring sensor , or even an overheating engine can trigger the light. Sometimes, it’s just a small problem that’s easy to fix. Other times, it could be the start of something bigger. Ignoring the light can lead to more damage, especially if you’re planning a summer road trip or if your teen is using the vehicle. It’s best to get testing and analysis done right away so we can find the cause and get it fixed before it becomes a major repair. Call 972-625-1836 to schedule a reservation. We’ll help you stay safe, cool, and worry-free this summer.

Worn tires can’t grip the road the way they should, especially during sudden stops or rain. If your tread is low or the rubber is cracked, your car may slide instead of stopping. Low tire pressure is also a common summer problem—it can lead to blowouts or uneven wear. Brakes are just as important. If they squeal, feel soft, or make the car shake when stopping, it’s time to have them checked. Waiting too long can damage other parts of your braking system, making repairs more costly—and your car less safe. Before any summer road trip—or before handing the keys to your teen—make sure your tires and brakes are in good shape. Need help with a safety check? Call 972-625-1836 to schedule a reservation. We’ll make sure your car is ready for the road.
Discover expert computer diagnostics at David's Automotive Repair in The Colony, TX. Optimize vehicle performance. Schedule an online appointment now!

When you bring your vehicle in for A/C testing and analysis, we recharge the system with fresh refrigerant and add a special dye that glows under a blacklight . This helps us track down the leak, even if it’s small or hidden deep inside the system. Some newer vehicles already have this dye from the factory, but not all do. Either way, we’ll use the right tools to spot where the refrigerant is escaping—so we can fix the problem and get your A/C blowing cold again. Don’t wait for it to get worse. If your air isn’t cold, let us take a look before summer really heats up. Call 972-625-1836 to schedule a reservation for A/C testing and repair.

If your windshield wipers are worn out , streaking , or squeaking , they might not do their job—and that can be dangerous. Windshield wipers are extremely important for your teen during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer. Good wipers help you see the road clearly during heavy rain, but they also come in handy for clearing dust, bugs, and even pollen. In Texas, summer heat can dry out the rubber on your wiper blades fast, causing them to crack or tear. If you notice your wipers skipping across the glass or leaving behind streaks, it’s time for a new set. Washer fluid is important too. Running out can leave your windshield dirty and tough to see through, especially during long drives or road trips. Before your next summer outing, take a quick look at your wipers and test your washer spray. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to check them for you. Call us at 972-625-1836 to schedule a reservation—we’ll make sure your view of the road is clear and safe.

One of the most common causes is a faulty blend door motor. This small part helps control the temperature inside your vehicle by opening and closing doors in your air system. When it starts to fail, it can get stuck or try to move the door the wrong way—which is what causes the clicking sound. You might still feel air coming from the vents, but it may not be the right temperature. Sometimes, it’s stuck on hot when you want cold, or vice versa. Over time, the noise can get worse and the motor may stop working altogether. If your dash is clicking, it’s a good idea to have it looked at before it turns into a bigger repair. Give us a call at 972-625-1836 to schedule a reservation. We’ll take care of the noise—and make sure your A/C is working like it should.

We’re partnering with Drive Smart Driving School to host a free Teen Driver Safety Class on Friday, June 28th at 10:00 AM right here in The Colony. The event is part of our effort to raise awareness during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer . This is the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day when teen driving accidents are at their highest. The class is free for teens and their families and includes two important parts: Classro om safety training led by certified instructors from Drive Smart A roadside safety course taught by one of our expert technicians But wait! There's more! One lucky teen who attends will receive a free dash cam with installation , right here at our shop! Dash cams help promote responsible driving, and we're proud to offer this to help keep our young drivers even safer. In addition to the class, we’re offering free safety checks on vehicles driven by teens all summer long . These safety checks help catch small problems before they become big ones—and give families peace of mind. Reservations are strongly recommended. 👉 Call us today at (972) 625-1836 to reserve a spot for the class or schedule a free safety check. Let’s work together to keep our teens—and our roads—safe this summer.

Storms can roll in quickly, and cloudy mornings or dusty evening drives can make it harder to see the road. That’s why working headlights aren’t just for nighttime, they help you see clearly and help other drivers see you. If your headlights look cloudy or yellow, they may not shine as bright as they should. And if one is dim or burned out, it can throw off your depth perception, making driving more dangerous. You may also be at risk of getting pulled over or missing important signs. Before you or your teen hits the road this summer, take a few minutes to check your lights. Turn them on, walk around your car, and make sure both front and rear lights are working. A quick fix today can help prevent an accident tomorrow. Need help with headlight replacement or cleaning? Give us a call at 972-625-1836 to schedule a reservation.