There was a study done in 2019 that showed that the check engine light is nearly 100 percent accurate in alerting drivers that there is a problem with their engine. In other words, if your check engine light comes on, it didn’t do so by mistake. Trojan Auto Care advises that there are many common reasons why the check engine light comes on and refuses to turn off. Here is what they are.
Catalytic Converter Problems
If the catalytic converter is clogged or malfunctioning in some other way, you will end up with the check engine warning. The catalytic converter switches carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide before it is released from the engine. Aside from the check engine warning, you may also smell rotten eggs.
Electrical System Issues
Sometimes, there is an issue in the electrical system or with your vehicle’s main computer that will cause the check engine light to come on. Aside from the check engine light, an electrical system error may also trigger an ALT, GEN, or battery light warning.
Fuel System Problems
Fuel delivery problems can cause the check engine light to come on, as can an untightened gas cap. If this dashboard warning came on right after you filled up, it’s possible that you didn’t secure the gas cap when you screwed it back on. Check this first.
Mass Airflow Sensor Issues
If your mass airflow sensor is going bad, your check engine light will come on. The mass airflow sensor is also called the MAF sensor and it measures the air that flows into the engine. Aside from the check engine warning, you may also have engine performance issues with a bad MAF sensor.
Oxygen Sensor Problems
The same happens with an oxygen sensor problem. When the oxygen sensor goes bad, you will end up with the check engine light warning, engine performance issues, reduced fuel economy, and possibly black exhaust smoke pouring out of your tailpipe.
Spark Plug Issues
Misfiring spark plugs can also cause the check engine light to come on. The problem could be with the spark plugs themselves or the engine control unit which directs the order in which they fire. If the unit is misdirecting the plugs, your engine will misfire and your check engine light will come on.
Transmission Problems
Finally, the check engine light may also turn on if your vehicle is experiencing transmission problems. Aside from the check engine warning, you may also find that your vehicle is struggling to shift through the gear cycle smoothly and without strange noises such as grinding or squealing.
Trojan Auto Care in Troy, OH, will get to the bottom of the reason why your check engine light has come on and won’t turn off. Call us today.
