Auto Diagnostics
The on-board diagnostics system and engine control unit in your vehicle monitor a lot of different systems to make sure your vehicle is running properly. If they get a reading that’s outside the predefined parameters it will trigger the check engine light.
The list of issues that can trigger the check engine light is quite lengthy. For instance, anything from a loose gas cap to a bad ozone sensor can be to cause. Some other potential issues that can cause your check engine light to illuminate are:
- A faulty sensor or EVAP Leak
- Faulty oxygen sensors
- Worn-out spark plugs
- Loose hoses
- Sticky re-circulation valves
- Pinched or deteriorated fuel injectors
- The need of a tune up
Check The Easy Things First:
Check to make sure your gas cap is on tightly. Tighten by making sure it clicks a couple of times. Once tight put a few miles on your vehicle to see if the Check Engine Light turns off. If the check engine light is still on head to Car Care Central and we will do a free Engine Light Scan.
One: Replace Oxygen Sensor
An oxygen sensor is a part that monitors the oxygen in the exhaust. It helps monitor how efficiently your car is burning fuel. A faulty sensor can hurt your gas mileage and cause you to fail a State Inspection.
Two: Loose or Faulty Gas Cap
The gas cap may seem tight but there may be something wrong with the seal. When it’s loose or cracked a bad gas cap allows fuel vapors to leak out and can cause problems in the highly technical fuel system. This will reduce your gas mileage and increase emissions.
Three: Replace Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter works to reduce pollution through your exhaust gases. It converts carbon monoxide and other harmful materials into harmless compounds. If your catalytic converter is failing, you’ll notice a decrease in gas mileage or your car will become less responsive to acceleration.
Four: Replace Mass Airflow Sensor
The mass airflow sensor helps the car’s computer know how much fuel your vehicle needs based on throttle applied and the air coming through to the engine. A faulty Mass Airflow Sensor can cause numerous issues including increased pollution and vehicle stalling.
Five: Spark Plugs and/or Ignition Coils
Did you miss your last regularly scheduled maintenance? If you did it is possible that it is time to change your spark plugs or you have a similar issue that would have been corrected with regular maintenance.
Not to worry, no matter what caused your Check Engine Light to come on our team at Car Care Central can get it diagnosed and tell you what needs to be done to correct the problem.
