One of the most dreaded lights to see illuminate on the dashboard is the check engine light. Sometimes the reason for this light coming on may be an issue that is not related to the engine. Going to regular scheduled maintenances can help prevent possible issues with your vehicle. We can inspect your vehicle for anything that may be wrong with the engine. We can also look for any issues of why the check engine light may be coming on. Some reasons can be a quick and easy fix, while other reasons may include parts being repaired or replaced.
The gas cap is missing or is loose
If the gas cap is loose fitting or missing, vapors can escape from the fuel tank. When this happens, the check engine light may illuminate on your dashboard. It is usually the most common cause for the light turning on, especially if your vehicle is well maintained. It is also the cheapest fix for why a check engine light turns on. If the gas cap is on tight, but the light keeps coming on, it is best to bring your vehicle in so we can inspect the vehicle and fuel cap thoroughly.
The oxygen sensor might be faulty
The oxygen sensor for your vehicle measures the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust. It also helps to measure the amount of fuel in the tank of your vehicle. This information is then transferred back to your vehicle’s computer system. If it is not working properly, the light can illuminate on the dashboard. The gas mileage can also begin to drop because your vehicle’s computer system is getting incorrect information for it.
The spark plugs might be misfiring
The spark plugs are an important piece for your vehicle. The spark plugs ignite the fuel inside the engine. If the spark plugs are misfiring, the fuel mileage will drop in your vehicle. In some cases, you may even lose power to the engine. This can also have the potential to damage the catalytic converter. This is why it is important that anytime the check engine light comes on, you bring your vehicle in as soon as possible. That way the issue can be found and fixed before other parts of the vehicle become damaged.
An issue with the air flow sensor
The air flow sensor monitors the amount of air that the engine gets. This can then determine how much fuel is delivered. If the air flow sensor is not working properly, you may notice that the engine has less power. You may also notice or feel that your vehicle surges during any acceleration when driving. Another sign of poor air flow sensors is if you notice a decrease in gas mileage for your vehicle.
Inspect the catalytic converter
The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system for your vehicle. It converts the harmful gases caused by engine combustion into less harmful emissions. Typically, catalytic converters do not fail unless related parts, like spark plugs, also fail. Bringing your vehicle in so it can be inspected is the best way to determine what the issue with your vehicle may be.