Typically means the computer detected a malfunction with the emissions system. They can also be produced by bad gas, by not properly securing the gas cap, and low battery conditions. If the light is flashing and the engine is misfiring, take your vehicle for service immediately. Otherwise, if you recently got gas, check the cap, or wait for the next tank to see if the issue is resolved. If you noticed the light after a low battery condition or after a jump-start, then drive the car normally for a few days to see if the condition clears up. If after a few days of driving the light does not clear up, take your vehicle in for a more thorough diagnostic check.
picture of engine
Why? Just reset it.
I was told by a co-woker that if you disconnect the negative battery cable for about 20 minutes or so that will reset the service engine light.
It is important to pay attention to the warning lights on a car. To reset a service engine light on a car, a person must fix the problem causing the light to go off.
That requires an OBDII engine scanner.
Have vehicle scanned to determine the problem and have codes cleared
The service engine light is the same thing as a check engine light.
There are pages of things that can turn the light on. You need to have it checked for codes. See related questions below.
If you have another light that says Check Engine, then the Service Engine Soon light means to change the oil/filter or perform some other maintenance item as listed in your owner's manual. You will see the other light when you turn on the ignition. If however there is no Check Engine light, this light means there is a problem with the emissions system.
Take it to a mechanic and throw money at it.
The service engine soon light flashes when the computer senses a fault and sets a diagnostic code. Most auto parts stores will read this code for free and tell you what may be causing the problem.
Yes, the Service Engine Soon light is the same as the Check Engine light.