Nothing ruins a great day than looking down at your dashboard to see the infamous check engine light. While it may be easy to pretend like it is not there, doing so will have headache-inducing consequences. Many drivers so dread the check engine light because the problem can be almost anything. And only a professional diagnostics test will let you know the culprit of the problem. Below are 6 of the many issues that can trigger the check engine light to illuminate.
Clogged Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter transforms dangerous gases, like carbon monoxide, into safer ones, such as carbon dioxide. Without proper care, the catalytic converter can get jammed and not carry out this process correctly. Thus, its sensors will trigger the yellow light.
Loose, Damaged, or Missing Gas Cap
The fuel lid keeps the gas tank enclosed and free from debris. It also prevents the gas fumes from leaking out. Fortunately, an impaired gas cap is an easy and inexpensive fix.
Malfunctioning Mass Air Flow Sensor
The mass airflow (MAF) sensor calculates how much air is in the engine, and it relays the measurement to compute an ideal air/fuel ratio. If there’s a problem with it, your check engine light will come on.
Old Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are needed to ignite the air and fuel in the combustion chamber. If these are worn or faulty, it can cause your engine to stop working altogether. Therefore, you should replace your spark plugs soon.
Vacuum Leaks
Engines have many vacuum lines made of rubber, so they are likely to wear down over time. Therefore, you should check on them when your check engine light is on.
Broken Oxygen Sensor
Like the MAF, the oxygen sensor detects the amounts of gases in the engine. When this sensor is faulty, it can trigger the check engine light may to come on. Delaying this repair could spread damage to other parts as well.
Check Engine Light Diagnostics in Webster, NY
All in all, you should not ignore a lit check engine light as the damage can worsen. The auto experts at Turner Auto Care would be happy to assist you in finding the exact cause of your dashboard warning light. If you need diagnostics and repairs related to the check engine light, please call or visit Turner Auto Care soon.