You are driving down the street, yelling out the lyrics to your favorite song that’s on the radio when suddenly a little yellow light that is shaped sort-of like a box with three “T” shaped protuberances coming from it appears on your dashboard. This light is commonly known as the check engine light but is also sometimes referred to as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL).
The check engine light is important because it receives messages from the engine’s computer when something may be wrong. While the check engine light shows that there is a problem, it does not tell you exactly what the problem is, which is why it is important to take your car into the mechanic as soon as possible after the check engine light has come on. If you need to get your engine checked out, feel free to reach out to us at Paskett Automotive.
Emissions/Exhaust System
The most frequent reason why your check engine light will come on is due to a problem with your emissions and exhaust system. You can have a leak in your exhaust pipes or there could be an issue with your catalytic converter. Your vehicle’s mass airflow sensor may have also been tripped on, as it is easily flipped.
Loose Fuel Cap
Another thing that may cause the check engine light to turn on would be a loose fuel cap. If you are not paying attention to screwing your fuel cap on completely after you fill up your car’s tank with gas, then you will likely find the malfunction indicator lamp when you get back into the car, or shortly thereafter. Luckily, there is a quick fix for this problem. Simply replace the cap and tighten it properly.
Electrical System
Because the check engine light is a catch-all for car issues, it very well may turn on due to an electrical problem. There are many wires within your car connecting the battery, spark plugs, ignition system, and many other parts together to all your car to work properly. If the electrical system is not firing correctly, it may indicate to the engine’s computer system that something is wrong, notifying your check engine light.
Oil Is Low
If your engine is running out of oil, your check engine light may turn on to warn you. If your engine runs out of oil, then your engine will begin to malfunction and begin performing poorly. If your oil is contaminated, it can also lead to certain problems. A leak may also be present in your fluid system if the check engine light comes on.
Oxygen Sensor
While there are still many other reasons why your check engine could be turning on, the last common reason is an issue with the oxygen sensor. The oxygen sensor is a crucial component of your emissions system that is installed to track exhaust leaks. The sensor will message the check engine light if there is an exhaust problem or if the sensor itself is having issues.
Has Your Check Engine Light Come On Recently?
Clearly, there are many possible reasons why your check engine light could be coming on. That is why it is important to see a mechanic if your check engine light comes on at any point. We at Paskett Automotive offer repair and maintenance services to our clients for all sorts of different automotive problems. From engine issues, to tire problems, to simple diagnostic checks, we at Paskett Automotive have got you covered. If you are living in the Layton, UT area and your check engine light comes on or you are in need of a vehicle tune-up, feel free to reach out to us today.
