Why Is Your Check Engine Light On? 6 Possible Reasons and What To Do About It
When your check engine light comes on it can trigger a whole world of distress because of its mysterious nature– it just comes on without notice or explanation. In this post, we dive into six common issues that might cause your check engine light to come on and how to go about fixing them.
Whether you’re a novice driver or a seasoned veteran, you’ll find this guide to be extremely helpful. We’ll discuss different symptoms you might experience and how to diagnose the issue using an OBD scanner. This article is packed with useful information to ensure you can drive stress-free.
Common Reasons for a Check Engine Light
Any time your check engine light comes on in your vehicle, it could signal a variety of issues related to the performance or emissions of your car. Some common potential causes of a check engine light are listed below.
(1) Defective Spark Plugs or Wires
A malfunctioning spark plug or wire can cause your vehicle to misfire or run erratically, signaling the need for a tune-up with the replacement of the spark plugs and wires.
(2) Issues With the Oxygen Sensor
Your vehicle’s oxygen sensor monitors the levels of oxygen in the exhaust system and helps ensure efficient fuel consumption. If this sensor becomes faulty, it will trigger the check engine light indicating it needs to be replaced.
(4) A Loose Gas Cap
Malfunctioning gas caps are one of the most common reasons a check engine light can appear in any vehicle. If your gas cap is not properly closed or threading correctly, it is likely to trigger your check engine light due to an issue with the fuel tank’s vacuum pressure.
(5) Faulty Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is responsible for cleaning harmful exhaust gases from entering the environment. When it fails, it can lead to an accumulation of these gases in the exhaust system and an increase in fuel consumption, resulting in a check engine light being triggered.
(6) Dirty Air Filter
An air filter that has become blocked due to dirt or dust can cause an excessive amount of air pressure in the intake manifold, triggering a check engine light.
What To Do if Your Check Engine Light Comes On
If your check engine light does come on, you’ll want to take it seriously. Get your car checked out by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible who can locate and fix any faulty parts before they cause further damage. Once they have identified any problems within your vehicle’s system, they can make appropriate repairs, such as replacing a faulty part or cleaning up a dirty air filter. If you are looking for a DIY approach to your repairs, you’ll want to use a mechanical lifting tool, such as a manual chain hoist, to assist in lifting heavier parts that need replacing. A chain hoist will make the job much easier than attempting to lift them manually.
Ensuring you address any problems signaled by your check engine light is key, as it not only ensures your safety but also saves you from additional costly repairs later. Keeping on top of car maintenance and repairs will also extend the life of your vehicle and reduce emissions released into the atmosphere from malfunctioning parts within your vehicle. Proactivity regarding repairs may also assist in improving fuel efficiency, which can lead to reduced gasoline costs and lower emissions from burning fuel.
Conclusion
The check engine light can be a scary sign of a potential problem, but with a few simple steps and the right information, you can be proactive in addressing the issue and ensuring your car runs smoothly and efficiently. By doing this, you’ll save yourself money and reduce emissions, resulting in a win-win for both you and the environment.