just open your owner manual, for most cars is standard
steady light: maintenance
flashing for a time: issues on the emissions controls, you risk on the long run to damage the converter or stuff like that
fixed flashing light: something seriously wrong, like a misfire or worse, running the engine is actively damaging it. car runs in protected mode as not to leave you stranded in a dangerous situation, but you are not supposed to run it.
what's your car if I might ask?