Why is My Check Engine Light on?

There are several reasons you might see the check engine light come on when you glance at your dashboard. You could face something as severe as damaged engine components, or simply need to tighten your gas cap.

Regardless of the issue, this is not something to ignore. This post will cover some of the most common reasons to encounter the dreaded check engine light.

Reasons for the Check Engine Light

  • Engine Trouble
      • Whenever the control module monitors detect anything out of place or misfiring in or around your engine, they’ll trigger a sensor that gives you a check engine light. Of course, the engine itself is not the only thing that generates this dashboard light. Many other items on this list give you that light because they operate with the engine in some way or another.
  • Transmission Issues
      • Vehicle transmissions work in close tandem with the engine, which is why if you have a problem there, it will bring up a check engine light. Usually, when this is the case, you may have already noticed a higher volume of tailpipe emissions.
  • Emissions Equipment Malfunctions
      • Everything from the catalytic converter to the gas recirculation system can impact the considerable amount of emissions equipment in your vehicle. This includes literally dozens of individual hardware pieces.
  • Powertrain Issues
      • The powertrain has an enormous number of sensors as well. Some of these might malfunction and cause a less serious issue, but you can’t always tell until you run a diagnostic scan.
  • Air & Fuel
      • You don’t need us to tell you how critical it is to have the proper air and fuel flow to and from your car’s engine. It’s a delicate balance, and if anything’s off just a bit, the check engine light will notify you. As annoying as the light may seem, it’s a lifesaver when it detects a serious fuel problem (allowing us to address it and prevent severe damage).
  • Ignition Problems
      • This is where you could run into trouble with components like spark plugs, coil packs, and an array of other things that help you start your vehicle. 

If you encounter problems like these or don’t know why you have the check engine light, then contact us for a diagnostic test. It’s better to be safe than sorry with these problems because the repair bills get much steeper if you delay or ignore them.

Vic Auto is the best place to take your premium European car, or any other make and model. We also offer roadside assistance and other helpful services. Contact us anytime to get a quote at 281-370-0101.
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