My check engine light is on, can I still drive the car?

There is much that "depends" with this question, especially the year, make and model of vehicle.  Most 90's and newer vehicle "check engine" light situations are a signal that something is wrong with optimal operation of the engine, usually related to one of the many emission sensors.  My "check engine" light comes on when I do not properly secure my gas cap, for instance. (2005 Pontiac SV6 minivan)  So, you should check your gas cap and if the light continues to come on, try to feel or hear any difference in how the engine is operating.  If you think the engine is running differently than before, take the vehicle in for service sooner than later.  Either way, you should have it checked out.

A check engine light now a days is usually an emission problem.   Can you drive the car?  yes.  If it works,  drive it.  You might get bad gas mileage,  but without knowing what is causing the light to come on it is hard to say.  When you go to get it state inspected,  you will not pass the emissions test,  but they will tell you exactly what is wrong so you can have it fixed.

Ok, what you can do is go to your local Auto Parts store and get them to to a diagnostic test (it's usually free) and they can tell you exactly what it is . Good luck !

-Rob ,  

The Check Engine Light detects a multitude of problems. In some vehicles the light will be saying;"You have an emission control device needing service" or "You have left your fuel cap loose" or a multitude of other things. It may only need a simple a minor correction or a major correction. Only a mechanic can answer this for sure!