Consumer Reports explains what the check engine light means and what to do when you see it: how to tell if your car has a loose gas cap—or a serious engine problem.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA has taken MB’s computer-mouse body design language and kid’s-toy interior aesthetic to another level. But a wagon with an active-aero spoiler is still pretty darn cool.

You know it's going to be a bad day when your car struggles to start or the check engine light comes on. It can cost $200 at the dealer just to have the problem diagnosed.

For example, the average cost to repair a check engine light issue in the U.S. was $384 in 2019, up just 1% from the previous year.