It pops up when you least expect it. You’re driving to work or grandma’s house, you’re on your way to the lake or grocery store, or you’re taking a road trip to the Black Hills. Suddenly, a light appears on your dash. Many owners don’t know what the “check engine” dash light means, and it can be the most misunderstood indicator on your dashboard.

Mills Automotive is having this year’s second Dash Light Days now through September 24 to improve awareness about dash warning lights and provide free initial computerized diagnostic. Mills Ford Lincoln, Mills GM, and Mills Honda in Brainerd/Baxter, along with Mills Ford Chrysler and Mills Auto Center in Willmar are all participating. 

Dash warning lights are part of a vehicle’s diagnostic system. Computers control and monitor vehicle performance, including engine speed, fuel mixture, transmission shifting, and ignition timing. When the diagnostic system detects a problem, a computer turns on some type of “check engine” warning light and a trouble code is stored in its memory. 

Factory-trained Mills technicians will perform a free computerized diagnostic up to one hour using state-of-the-art equipment.* Service advisors at each location will provide additional information.

From this diagnosis, a full report will be provided with a no-obligation estimate for any necessary repairs. While some lights can be turned off without any repairs, others are safety related and can’t be turned off without required repairs.

There are 15 to 20 possible types of dash warning lights, including include low tire pressure, safety restraints, emissions, anti-lock brakes, transmission and evaporative emission control, just to name a few.  

“We want to find out why the light is on and make sure your vehicle is operating as it should,” said Tim Sundberg, parts and service director for Mills Automotive. “Anyone with a flashing dash warning light has an urgent issue and should pull over and shut the vehicle off.”

If you have a dash warning light, call 866-455-7638 and a Mills Automotive Customer Care Center specialist will promptly schedule a service appointment.** Contact us with any additional questions you may have. We look forward to helping you drive away safely!

* There will be a charge if additional diagnosis time is needed.

** Some models may be excluded.