Please do not ignore your check engine light, whether it comes on and stays on once you start your vehicle or illuminates while you’re driving. Yes, the problem may be minor or there may not be a problem at all – check engine lights have been known to come on for no reason – but the problem could be significant, as well. Mike’s Automotive knows all the check engine light warnings.
Catalytic Converter Trouble
One of the significant issues behind a check engine warning is a problem with your vehicle’s catalytic converter. The catalytic converter’s job is to prevent harmful carbon monoxide from entering the atmosphere. It converts carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide, which is safe for the environment. Your check engine light will come on if the converter isn’t performing as it should be.
Gas Cap Unsealed
When you fuel up, you probably replace the gas cap once you’re finished so automatically that you don’t even remember doing it. Here’s the thing, though. The gas cap creates a seal to prevent gas fumes from escaping. If you didn’t screw the gas cap on tight the last time you fuelled up, or if the seal is broken, your check engine will come on because you are releasing gas fumes from the tank.
Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor
Another reason why your check engine light came is you might have a faulty mass airflow sensor. Your car, SUV or truck’s engine runs on a combination of fuel and air. The mass airflow sensor calculates the fuel and air combination to ensure it’s the right mixture. If it isn’t, the sensor corrects the problem. If it can’t, your check engine light will come on. Incorrect fuel/air mixtures can damage the engine.
Oxygen Sensor Problem
Your vehicle should not have too much oxygen in its exhaust as this is dangerous. Oxygen is flammable, so the oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and sounds an alarm if it’s too rich. This part is crucial to your vehicle’s exhaust system, and the check engine light will illuminate if the part is faulty or not working at all. A faulty oxygen sensor also affects your gas mileage and performance.
Finally, the source of the problem may be your spark plugs or plug wire. These parts last much longer in automobiles than they used to, but Mike’s Automotive can inspect them if your check engine light comes on. We’re located in Del City, OK, give us a call today.
