If your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s check engine light keeps coming on, there is a problem that should be addressed as soon as possible. There was a study conducted in 2019 that proved that the check engine light is incredibly accurate. It will turn on even if there is a problem that is otherwise undetectable. CAR FIX is going to list the common reasons for check engine warnings below. We can diagnose the reason behind your check engine light warning.
Catalytic Converter Trouble
Without a functioning catalytic converter, your vehicle’s exhaust fills with carbon monoxide. Unfortunately, this is not only dangerous for the environment, but it is also dangerous for you should exhaust come into your vehicle’s cabin. Aside from overheating, you will also get a check engine warning if your catalytic converter is having problems.
Faulty Vehicle Sensors
Faulty vehicle sensors can also cause the check engine light to turn on. This can be a system sensor or your vehicle’s main computer chip, the engine control module. It’s important to note that if the engine control module goes bad, your vehicle may shut down and you won’t be able to get it started again.
Loose Fuel Cap
Oddly, a loose fuel cap can turn on the check engine light because you have fuel evaporating from the tank. There is a sensor that indicates that the fuel cap has created a proper seal over the fuel tank. If the sensor detects that the seal has not formed, your check engine light will come on.
Malfunctioning MAF or O2 Sensor
Your vehicle is also equipped with mass airflow and oxygen sensors. These sensors actually have two separate functions. Usually, the MAF sensor will not go bad, but it can get dirty. When this happens, your check engine light may come on. The oxygen sensor can go bad after an average lifespan of anywhere from 60,000 miles to 90,000 miles.
Transmission Problems
Another thing that will trigger a check engine warning is transmission problems. Aside from the warning, you may be able to feel or hear your transmission having problems. Shaking, vibration, grinding, or clunking when the vehicle shifts gears indicates trouble.
Worn Spark Plugs
Finally, today’s spark plugs can last as long as 100,000 miles. That seems impossible to believe considering they used to need to be changed every 30,000 miles. Regardless, if your spark plugs are worn, your engine will misfire and you’ll get a check engine warning.
Call CAR FIX in Maryville, TN, today if your check engine light is on. We can diagnose the problem and fix it.
