Hello Clare 1984, when the amber engine light comes on,it means the engine computer system has detected a problem in the emission control system. To check the problem a scan too is connected to the car and trouble codes are retrieved. Then the circuit indicated has to be tested. The car is safe to driver as long as the light isn't blinking, that indicates a misfire that could damage the catalytic converter. You should have the cause for the light coming on as soon as possible, since some sensor problems could affect your gas mileage. It can be something as simple as a defective gas cap.
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