You start your car just like you do every morning. Suddenly, an orange glow from the dashboard grabs your attention. You groan. The check engine light has come on. While your first reaction may be to ignore it, a check engine light could be signaling a serious issue with your vehicle.
The check engine light is a critical part of your car’s onboard diagnostics system. Since this system monitors multiple aspects of your car’s operation, there could be several reasons for that bothersome signal. Here are five common issues that could cause a check engine light to turn on.
Faulty or Loose Gas Cap
While it seems like a small issue, a loose gas cap can release dangerous fumes or allow moisture and dirt into your fuel tank. The fix could be as simple as tightening the fuel cap, or you may need to replace the cap if it isn’t able to seal properly.
Defective Spark Plugs
The spark plugs are a crucial part of your car’s ignition system, creating the spark that makes the engine produce power. Over time, they can wear down and begin misfiring. Other potential signs of faulty spark plugs are slower acceleration and increased fuel consumption.
Transmission Problems
Since your car’s transmission and engine work so closely together, transmission problems can also light up the check engine light. Anything from low transmission fluid to clogged cooler lines could cause the signal to come on.
Emissions Trouble
The check engine light also notifies when there is an issue with your vehicle’s emissions system. If sensors detect smoke in your exhaust system or if there’s trouble with your catalytic converter, the light will be triggered.
Urgent Repair Needed
If your check engine light is flashing, or if it’s red instead of orange, there is an urgent issue with your vehicle. Get your car to a trusted mechanic as soon as possible to prevent any major damage.
The only way to know the exact reason behind your check engine light coming on is to perform a diagnostic test. Contact Young Automotive in Sturgeon Bay, WI today to schedule an appointment. We’ll use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to find the issue, make any necessary repairs, and ensure that you can get back on the road safely.
