Why Is My Check Engine Light On?
When something is wrong with one of your vehicle's parts, it can be hard to tell right off the bat. Luckily, our vehicles come equipped with a system that alerts us when something is wrong. Through our dashboard lights, our vehicle will show us which area of the car needs to be taken a look at. Whether you drive a Ford, Toyota, Honda, Chevy, or a car, truck, SUV, or van from another manufacturer, these dashboard lights have mostly universal appearances.
However, sometimes it is not very obvious what this light is trying to tell us. One dashboard light that turns on when various parts are malfunctioning is the check engine light. If your check engine light turns on, it is a good idea to observe when the light turns on and if the light is flashing or is steady. Generally speaking, a steady check engine light does not mean the issue is immediately urgent (although you should still get the issue checked out), but if the light is flashing, you should bring your car to an auto repair shop immediately. If you are in Jamesburg, NJ, East Brunswick Township, NJ, Manalapan Township, NJ, Monroe Township, NJ, Old Bridge, NJ, or nearby, you can come to Platt's Performance Plus, Inc in Middlesex County. We can determine why your check engine light has turned on and resolve the issue efficiently and skillfully.
Here are some reasons your check engine light may have turned on:
Oxygen sensor failure: Your vehicle's oxygen sensor measures the amount of unburnt oxygen in a car's exhaust system. If this sensor is failing, your engine will keep running but your vehicle will be burning more fuel than usual.
Loose fuel cap: If your check engine light turns on right after you've filled up with gas, it's likely that you just have a loose fuel cap or you forgot to screw it back on.
Catalytic converter failure: The catalytic converter turns the carbon monoxide produced during the combustion process into carbon dioxide. Getting regular oil changes will help keep the catalytic converter in shape. We at Platt's Performance Plus, Inc can take care of that for you, along with, and auto repair.
Spark plug/ignition coil issues: An ignition coil generates electricity the spark plugs need to ignite the air and fuel mixture in your vehicle's cylinders. If you have a diesel vehicle, you do not have spark plugs or ignition coils.
Bad spark plug wires: Some signs of bad spark plug wires include idling, a noticeable drop in engine performance, and the check engine light turning on.
Mass airflow sensor failure: The mass airflow sensor monitors how much air enters the engine. If you are experiencing a rough idle or trouble starting, you can come to Platt's Performance Plus, Inc so we can check out your mass airflow sensor.
Your Quality Shop for Check Engine Light
We at Platt's Performance Plus, Inc in Jamesburg are experts in all things auto repair. We've been fixing cars since 1988 and our owner Edwin W. Platt and technicians have decades of combined experience. We can perform a multitude of services on your vehicle, including engine repair.
Reasons You Should Do Business With Us:
To schedule an appointment with Platt's Performance Plus, Inc in Jamesburg, give us a call at 732-521-1978 or schedule an appointment online at https://plattsplus.com/. Platt's Performance Plus, Inc - Quality you Can Trust, at a Fair Price!.
FAQ
- Why is my check engine light on?- Your check engine light could be due to a loose gas cap, faulty oxygen sensor, or more serious engine issues. To find the exact cause, it's recommended to use an OBD-II scanner or consult a mechanic for a diagnostic check.
- Can I still drive my vehicle with the check engine light on?- Whether it's safe to drive with the check engine light on depends on the issue. Minor issues may allow you to drive, but for flashing lights or severe problems, it's best to ask your mechanic to avoid potential damage.
- How do I reset the check engine light?- While you can reset the check engine light by disconnecting the battery, it's crucial to address the underlying issue. For a proper diagnosis and repair, consult a mechanic to avoid potential long-term damage to your vehicle.
- What does it mean if the check engine light is flashing?- A flashing check engine light indicates a severe issue that requires immediate attention. It could be a sign of a misfire, which can lead to catalytic converter damage. Consult a mechanic promptly to prevent further complications.
- How much does it cost to fix the issues causing the check engine light?- The cost to fix check engine light issues varies based on the problem and your vehicle's make and model. Consulting a mechanic for a thorough inspection will provide an accurate estimate tailored to your specific situation.