Can a burn out tail light cause a check engine light?

Yes, a burnt-out tail light can potentially trigger a check engine light, especially if the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system detects an issue with the lighting circuit or if it's part of a broader electrical problem. However, in most cases, the check engine light is more commonly associated with engine-related issues rather than lighting problems. If you're seeing both warnings, it's advisable to check the tail light and run a diagnostic on the engine system for more specific issues.