Is This Why Your Light Is On?
Your vehicle has an extensive warning system. When the brake light comes on, you know there is a problem with the brakes. When the check engine light comes on, there's a problem with the engine. Unfortunately, it isn't always as easy as finding the one part that isn't working. Here are some of the reasons your check engine light may light up.
- Loose gas cap - the system could be triggered by vapor leaks in the engine or evaporative emissions system.
- Faulty oxygen sensor - if the sensor can't measure the proper air-to-fuel mix, you lose performance because the engine doesn't know how much air to inject into the system.
- Faulty catalytic convertor - the catalytic convertor reduces pollutants in the exhaust. When it degrades over time, the check engine light may come on.
- Bad spark plugs - spark plugs fire the cylinders. When one goes bad, you waste gas. Yes, the check engine can go on when the spark plugs aren't working.
- Non-compatible aftermarket parts - some car's check engine light goes on when aftermarket parts are installed that aren't compatible with the system.
- Leaky hoses - the check engine light will go on if fuel is evaporating before it gets to the right place.
- Faulty exhaust gas recirculation valve - another essential part of the combustion system. When the pieces aren't working correctly, the check engine light goes on.
- Battery - newer cars can detect problems with the battery. The check engine light will go on if there's a problem.
When the Check Engine Light Comes On
Diagnosing problems in the engine and exhaust system can be difficult without the proper equipment. Most cars have an extensive electronic system that produces and logs error codes. These codes can be fed into an onboard diagnostic scanner for codes that identify what is going on in the car. Without that system, it can be hit or miss in trying to find the exact problem. Don't ignore the check engine light. Your vehicle may still be drivable, but more damage will be done to your engine if the issue isn't resolved.
Please schedule an appointment with Millennium Transmission & Auto Care in Akron to let one of our expert technicians diagnose your check engine light. We'll get you back on the road as quickly as possible while maintaining your car's efficiency and performance.