The check engine light is an amber light that comes on the dashboard to warn you of a malfunction in the vehicle. Cars have a monitoring system that keeps scanning the engine for errors and reports the same on the dashboard. It is good to know what each light means so that you can deal with the problem promptly. Here are a few reasons why the check engine light comes on.
Loose Gas Cap
The gas cap should be the first aspect you consider in this case. It ensures that your gas tank has the appropriate pressure. In case the cap is not closed tightly or if it has a crack, you may find the light coming on.
Failing Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is a device that transforms harmful gases into clean emissions that are later released into the atmosphere. If it is failing due to failure by related systems such as wiring, sparks, and sensors, you will get the check engine light.
Failing Oxygen Sensor
If your car is experiencing a decline in the number of kilometers it covers per liter of fuel, and you get the check light in, be sure to have the oxygen sensor checked. A diagnostic code reader can pick issues with the sensor.
Ignition Coil and Spark Plug Issues
The ignition coil generates the power used by spark plugs to ignite the mixture of air and fuel so that combustion commences. Most classic cars have just one coil. However, modern models have a coil for each cylinder. It does not matter if the vehicle has one or several coils. If any of them malfunctions, it will trigger the check engine light warning.
Issues with the Alarm System
If you install an aftermarket alarm wrong, there is a chance that it will wreak havoc on your vehicle. Many of them drain the battery and trigger the check engine light warning. You may have the alarm disabled if you cannot locate the source of the warning light.
If you need check engine light diagnosis and repair, we invite you to bring your vehicle into our auto repair shop today!