Why did your check engine light come on?
Few things inspire stress and anxiety in drivers, like the check engine light in their dashboard display. That little yellow light could mean many things, some serious, some not so serious. The one thing that light means is that it’s time to take your vehicle to your favorite service center to have the check engine light diagnosed and to get the root problem repaired.
Gas Cap
One of the simple and often less expensive reasons your check engine light might illuminate is to let you know there’s a problem with your gas cap. It could be a misaligned gas cap. You might check this, especially if the light on the dashboard came on not long after you got gas. Or you might have a faulty or damaged gas cap. You’ll still want to take your vehicle in to have your mechanic check the code from your car and advise you on how best to repair the issue.
Oxygen Sensor
If your oxygen sensor is malfunctioning or has failed, you’ll notice a difference in your fuel efficiency as well as see the check engine light come on. The oxygen sensor is part of your exhaust system and will indicate when the emissions are not at acceptable levels.
Spark Plugs
Worn or dirty spark plugs can also be behind that check engine light. Ignoring this problem can cause further damage to your vehicle by damaging your catalytic converter(s), ignition coils, or oxygen sensor.
Catalytic Converter
A damaged, faulty, or failed catalytic converter might be the reason behind your check engine light, too. The catalytic converter(s) is part of your vehicle's emissions system and are designed to convert toxic emissions into less. If the catalytic converter(s) is behind the check engine light, you might notice your vehicle is running hot, wasting fuel, and not performing as it used to.
No matter what the cause of your check engine light coming on is, the best course of action for you to take is to contact your preferred service station and have them inspect, diagnose, and repair the issue. Ignoring a check engine light for an extended time can lead to catastrophic engine failure and expensive repairs.
In San Diego, CA, you can call West Automotive Group and speak with their qualified technicians when your check engine light comes on. They’ll be happy to help you make an appointment and walk you through their process for determining the root cause of the check engine light. If your check engine light is on now, why not call West Automotive Group today?
