Severity: Fix right away. Driving risks expensive damage or a breakdown.
The engine speed went past the safe limit set by the manufacturer, which can happen when the car is downshifted too aggressively or the throttle sticks.
Check the throttle system and the engine speed sensor, and have a mechanic inspect for internal damage if the engine was revved hard.
Over-revving can bend valves and damage the engine. Have it checked before driving again.
Avoid driving until it is checked — towing is the safer choice. Over-revving can bend valves and damage the engine. Have it checked before driving again.
The most common causes are: Aggressive downshift at high speed; Stuck throttle; Failing throttle control; Faulty engine speed sensor. A scan tool and a visual check of the parts above is where a technician starts.
Check the throttle system and the engine speed sensor, and have a mechanic inspect for internal damage if the engine was revved hard.
