It can be very stressful to have your check engine light come on. There may be no other signs of engine trouble, which can make it difficult to determine whether it’s safe to continue to drive your automobile. Eddie’s Auto Service recommends that you drive straight to our service shop rather than risk causing additional engine damage. The check engine light is quite effective in alerting drivers of serious problems. Here are the common reasons why vehicle check engine lights come on.
Catalytic Converter
If your catalytic converter is clogged or malfunctioning, you will end up with the check engine warning and a rotten egg smell. Your engine may also start to overheat because the catalytic converter is backing up the engine’s exhaust.
Engine Control Module
The engine control module is your vehicle’s main computer chip and it is responsible for turning on the check engine light. In rare cases, the module can malfunction and turn on the check engine light even though there isn’t a problem in your engine.
Fuel Cap
The gas cap is responsible for creating a seal over the gas tank to prevent fuel evaporation. If this cap is too loose or can no longer create a seal, the check engine light will come on because your vehicle is losing diesel fuel or gasoline through evaporation.
Mass Airflow Sensor
Also called the MAF sensor, the mass airflow sensor can get dirty or malfunctioning. When it does, it sends a code to the engine control module to let it know that it’s having problems. The engine control module will illuminate the check engine light as a result of this error code.
Oxygen Sensor
The same holds true for the oxygen or O2 sensor. This sensor is a common reason why the check engine light comes on. It has an average lifespan of about 100,000 miles and, once it fails, you will end up with an illuminated check engine light that won’t turn off until you replace it.
Spark Plugs
Misfiring or worn spark plugs can also trigger a check engine warning. The problem can also occur if you have worn spark plug wires. If you can’t remember the last time that you had your plugs changed, and your engine has been stuttering and stalling, the spark plugs are likely the reason why your check engine light is on.
Eddie’s Auto Service in Kingston, TN, advises that your check engine light may also come on if your vehicle has transmission problems. Call us today to schedule a service appointment if your check engine light is illuminated.
