If you keep your car for very long and as the miles add up, there may come a time that you see the “Check Engine” light illuminate on the instrument panel, warning of potential engine problems. Head to your auto shop as soon as possible and ask for a diagnostic test. This will enable your mechanic to check out what is happening under the hood. Most mechanics, plus drivers, usually want to take care of problems while they are still small before they turn into a major engine repair.
When any of the problems below become apparent, drivers will experience decreased gas mileage, an increase in toxic emissions, loss of power, and stalling. So what is the most common cause of check engine light illuminating? Take a look at the list below:
- Gas Cap – A loose or cracked gas cap allows fuel vapors to leak out and can throw the whole fuel system off.
- Oxygen Sensor – The oxygen sensor monitors the unburned oxygen from the exhaust and how much fuel is burned. If this sensor becomes bad, the right data cannot be sent to the car’s computer.
- Catalytic Converter – The catalytic converter reduces exhaust gases by converting carbon monoxide and other harmful materials into harmless emissions. If it goes bad, your car will be emitting more toxic fumes into the atmosphere.
- Mass Airflow Sensor – This is the sensor that tells the car's computer to add the proper amount of fuel based on the air coming through to the engine. This sensor can become clogged, causing problems.
- Spark Plugs and Wires – The spark plug seals the combustion chamber, provides a gap for a spark to jump across, and initiates combustion in your engine. When these go bad you may start to experience starting problems.
So how do drivers prevent major engine repair? By taking care of the preventative vehicle maintenance items recommended by their vehicle’s manufacturer.
Want to know more about what is the most common cause of check engine light illuminating? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Cannon Auto Repair for more information about engine repair and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
If you keep your car for very long and as the miles add up, there may come a time that you see the “Check Engine” light illuminate on the instrument panel, warning of potential engine problems. Head to your auto shop as soon as possible and ask for a diagnostic test. This will enable your mechanic to check out what is happening under the hood. Most mechanics, plus drivers, usually want to take care of problems while they are still small before they turn into a major engine repair.
When any of the problems below become apparent, drivers will experience decreased gas mileage, an increase in toxic emissions, loss of power, and stalling. So what is the most common cause of check engine light illuminating? Take a look at the list below:
- Gas Cap – A loose or cracked gas cap allows fuel vapors to leak out and can throw the whole fuel system off.
- Oxygen Sensor – The oxygen sensor monitors the unburned oxygen from the exhaust and how much fuel is burned. If this sensor becomes bad, the right data cannot be sent to the car’s computer.
- Catalytic Converter – The catalytic converter reduces exhaust gases by converting carbon monoxide and other harmful materials into harmless emissions. If it goes bad, your car will be emitting more toxic fumes into the atmosphere.
- Mass Airflow Sensor – This is the sensor that tells the car's computer to add the proper amount of fuel based on the air coming through to the engine. This sensor can become clogged, causing problems.
- Spark Plugs and Wires – The spark plug seals the combustion chamber, provides a gap for a spark to jump across, and initiates combustion in your engine. When these go bad you may start to experience starting problems.
So how do drivers prevent major engine repair? By taking care of the preventative vehicle maintenance items recommended by their vehicle’s manufacturer.
Want to know more about what is the most common cause of check engine light illuminating? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Cannon Auto Repair for more information about engine repair and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
