Seeing the check engine light illuminate on your dashboard is never a welcome sight. That little glowing orange indicator warns you that something is amiss with your vehicle. But what exactly does the check engine light mean, and what should you do when it turns on? Here’s all you need to know about it.
What the Check Engine Light Means
The check engine light is part of your car’s onboard diagnostics system (OBD) that monitors emissions controls and other vital components. Hundreds of sensors throughout your engine, transmission, and emissions systems constantly check for faults or malfunctions.
When one of these sensors detects an issue, it triggers the ECU (electronic control unit) to turn on the check engine light. This indicates a problem somewhere needing further diagnosis and repair to prevent damage to your vehicle.
Potential Causes
There are countless reasons why your check engine light could be illuminated. Here are some of the most common issues:
- Loose or faulty gas cap
- Catalytic converter problems
- Faulty oxygen sensors
- Bad spark plugs or wires
- Issues with the mass airflow sensor
- Evaporative emissions system leaks
- Worn-out brakes triggering ABS sensor
- Computer glitches
Seeking a Professional Diagnosis
Since so many components could trigger the check engine light, do not try to guess the cause or make repairs without having the vehicle properly diagnosed. Instead, immediately make an appointment with a car mechanic in Sun Prairie, WI.
Their expert technicians have the tools to diagnose OBD trouble codes, including code readers and scanners. This will reveal the exact sensor that detected the malfunction so the underlying issue can be pinpointed and fixed.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, diagnosing the check engine light could be a quick process or require more extensive troubleshooting. Talk to your mechanic about estimated costs before proceeding with repairs.
Address Issues Promptly
Having your vehicle serviced as soon as possible is essential when the check engine light switches on. Driving with this warning light can allow minor problems to escalate into more significant repairs. It also means your engine is likely operating inefficiently, impacting fuel economy and emissions output.
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