An illuminated check engine light is one of every car owner’s nightmares. This light comes on when your car’s on-board computer detects a problem.
Here are six reasons why your vehicle’s check engine light is on:
Problem with the Gas Cap
The gas cap covers the opening to the gas tank and creates a tight seal to prevent gasoline fumes from leaking out of the fuel tank. If you don’t screw on the gas cap tight enough after filling your car, the check engine light will turn on. Without the gas cap creating a vacuum seal for your vehicle’s fuel system, fuel vapors will leak out of the gas tank and trigger the check engine light. A loose or faulty gas cap can lead to decreased fuel efficiency. If your check engine light comes on immediately after filling your car, check the gas cap to ensure it isn’t loose. If the seal is broken or the gas cap is cracked, head to a nearby auto repair shop and have it replaced.
Failing Mass Air Flow Sensor
Also known as air meter, a mass air flow sensor is a component of an electronic fuel injection system that measures the amount of air entering the internal combustion engine. When this component malfunctions, it could lead to an increase in exhaust emissions and an illuminated check engine light. You can avoid airflow sensor failure by routinely replacing the filter.
Faulty Oxygen Sensor
Your car’s exhaust system is equipped with an oxygen sensor that regulates your car engine’s air-fuel ratio. If the oxygen sensor malfunctions, it could trigger the engine light. A faulty oxygen sensor will reduce fuel economy and increase emissions. If left unchecked, it can damage the catalytic converter and spark plugs. You should have an auto repair shop inspect your oxygen sensors if you notice poor acceleration and your check engine light comes on.
Faulty Spark Plugs
As the name implies, spark plugs ignite the air/fuel mixture within the engine by creating electrical sparks. Faulty spark plugs can cause an engine misfire. A problem with the spark plugs or spark plug wires could cause the check engine light to turn on. Faulty spark plugs should be fixed as soon as possible to prevent problems such as oxygen sensor malfunction, a clogged catalytic converter, or damaged ignition coils.
Bad Catalytic Converter
A catalytic converter converts the harmful gas emissions of a vehicle into harmless compounds like steam and carbon dioxide. This component can fail as a result of misfiring spark plugs, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, improper mixture of fuel, and many other reasons. If your check engine light has come on and you’ve noticed deteriorated fuel efficiency and decreased performance, make sure you get your catalytic converter inspected.
Wiring Issues
Your car consists of a lot of wiring that ensures its components are running efficiently. Loose or damaged wiring can illuminate the check engine light.
Check Engine Light Diagnosis
Has your check engine light come on and you need help with diagnosing the problem? Bring your vehicle to Chloe’s Auto Repair and Tire. Here at Chloe’s Auto Repair and Tire, we offer reliable check engine light diagnostics and a wide range of auto repair services.
