Yes, you can drive with the check engine light (CEL) on, but it is a risk that can cost you significantly more if ignored. The immediate risk of a breakdown is low, but the long-term risk of damaging expensive components like the catalytic converter is high. For example, ignoring a faulty oxygen sensor in a 2022 Toyota Camry in Dubai's traffic can increase fuel consumption by up to 20%, adding roughly 0.15 AED/km to your fuel cost. According to workshops in Al Quoz, a simple spark plug replacement for a GCC-spec V6 engine might cost 300-450 AED, while ignoring it and damaging the catalytic converter can lead to a repair bill of 4,000-6,000 AED. The RTA Dubai's vehicle inspection report for 2023 indicates that emissions-related faults are a leading cause of initial test failure. A used-car valuation guide from a major UAE dealer network (2024) shows that a car with an unresolved CEL history can depreciate 15-20% faster than a comparable fault-free vehicle. For a car worth 80,000 AED, that's an instant loss of 12,000-16,000 AED in potential resale value. The safest and most economical step is to use a basic OBD2 scanner (available from 120 AED) to read the fault code, which can indicate whether it's a minor issue like a loose fuel cap or a serious one requiring immediate attention.
- Immediate Action: Use an OBD2 scanner to read the fault code for a diagnosis.
- Common Cost: Ignoring a minor fault can lead to major repairs costing thousands of AED.
- Resale Impact: An unresolved check engine light history accelerates vehicle depreciation by 15-20%.
