When your check engine light comes on, you should seek service from a professional mechanic. While this light can come on for minor reasons such as a loose gas cap, it can also signify a serious problem with your vehicle. Your mechanic will use a special computer to read the diagnostic code and find out what’s going on with your car. Taking the appropriate action in a timely manner can save you the trouble and expense of a potentially larger repair in the future. Review the common reasons your car might give you this signal that something’s amiss.
Faulty Oxygen Sensor
This component of your vehicle measures how much fuel the engine burns. When one of the several oxygen sensors of a car burns out, the check engine light will light up so you can have it replaced. Failure to fix this issue can result in a damaged catalytic converter — a much more expensive repair. According to Edmunds, this is the most common reason for an illuminated check engine light (tied with faulty spark plugs, below).
Damaged Spark Plugs or Wires
Spark plugs can misfire, which might cause the check engine light in your car to illuminate. This issue is common in older-model cars since modern spark plugs last about 100,000 miles. If damaged spark plugs or wires affect your vehicle, it’s a quick and affordable fix that will immediately have your car running more smoothly.
Broken Mass Airflow Sensor
The airflow sensor communicates the appropriate amount of fuel for the car’s computer to release to the engine. When this component fails, you will notice lower than expected gas mileage. Your car might fail an emissions inspection or begin to stall out when you stop. Replacing the air filter on a manufacturer-recommended schedule (usually at least once every 12 months) can keep the mass airflow sensor in good working condition. If it breaks, your check engine light might come on. Getting this part replaced will keep your car running well and prevent more serious repairs.
Damaged Catalytic Converter
The check engine light could also indicate a problem with the catalytic converter on your car. The catalytic converter decreases the harmful exhaust from the engine and can cause reduced gas mileage or impaired accelerations when not working correctly. Usually, this component of the vehicle’s exhaust system fails only when failure to complete routine maintenance causes small problems to become major issues. Edmunds reports the catalytic converter as the most common reason for the check engine light to come on after the oxygen sensor and spark plugs.
If your check engine light is blinking rather than steadily lit, it could indicate an emergency. Pullover right away and have your car towed to a trusted mechanic. All American Chrysler Jeep Dodge Odessa offers fast, professional service that goes the extra mile. Whether you want to schedule routine maintenance to prevent an issue with your vehicle or find out the reason for your check engine light, make an appointment with our experienced certified technicians today.
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