Why is my check engine light on?

By Product Expert | Posted in Tips and Info on Wednesday, October 9th, 2019 at 3:27 pm
driver display with an illuminated check engine light

Five reasons your check engine light may be on

Seeing the check engine light illuminate up in the driver display can be one of the most frustrating things as a driver, because you’re left wondering why it’s on and wondering how much cash you’ll have to fork up at your next service appointment. Luckily, it’s not always the worst thing in the world. Take a look below at five different reasons why your check engine light may be on!

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Why is my check engine light on?

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to a check engine light being on, but typically it is due to one of five reasons.

  • The gas cap needs to be tightened. This is a common reason for the check engine light illuminating, and it can be fixed by simply tightening the gas cap.
  • Oxygen sensor needs to be replaced. This can cause damage to spark plugs and will decrease fuel efficiency.
  • The catalytic converter has gone bad. This component of the vehicle helps keep emissions in check.
  • Mass Airflow Sensor needs to be replaced. A faulty MAS can damage the spark plugs, oxygen sensor, and catalytic converter.
  • Spark plugs need to be replaced. Spark plugs help ignite the combustion chamber to start your vehicle, but if they aren’t working properly, you will experience reduced performance.

Read More: Signs of a bad alternator

Schedule a service appointment in Milwaukee WI

The best thing to do when you notice your check engine light is to try to tighten the gas cap. If that doesn’t make the light go off, there is probably another problem that you must get fixed. Schedule a service appointment with our team here at Eric von Schledorn today and see what we can do for you!

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