Malfunction indicator lamp. This is the standardized industry term for the check engine light. It illuminates when the onboard diagnostic system detects a failure that affects vehicle emissions or powertrain performance. A flashing MIL indicates a severe active misfire that will rapidly destroy the catalytic converter.
The customer states the MIL came on after fueling, so grab the scanner and check for an EVAP leak code.
Also heard as
- check engine light
- CEL
- idiot light
- malfunction indicator lamp
Related terms
OBD
On-board diagnostics is the standardized computer system that monitors vehicle emissions and engine performance.
DTC
A diagnostic trouble code generated by a vehicle computer to indicate a fault.
ECM
The electronic control module that manages a vehicle's engine and sometimes transmission.
Idiot light
A basic dashboard warning indicator replaces proper analog gauges to alert drivers of critical faults.
Same word, different worlds
One thousandth of an inch (25.4 micrometers), the usual North American unit for coating thickness.
Powder CoatingOne thousandth of an inch, exactly 25.4 microns, the everyday unit for coating thickness in North America.
GeosyntheticsOne thousandth of an inch, the unit North American crews use for geomembrane thickness.
Units & MeasuresA unit of length equal to one thousandth of an inch.