While driving your car, you want to ensure that it’s in top condition for smooth driving. However, if you notice the check engine light is glowing, it’s impossible because there might be something wrong with your vehicle.
The check engine light’s meaning and purpose are to detect if something’s wrong with your car engine. When the light is glowing on your dashboard, you need to take it to your nearby garage for repairs.
Unfortunately, the check engine light doesn’t explain the reason behind its glowing. It’s usually upon the technician to figure out the problem and solve it immediately. While the check engine light is on, you can continue driving your vehicle, but we don’t recommend it.
If you see your car engine light glowing, several possibilities and problems could take place in your engine. To help you out, we’ve made a list of reasons for the question “why is my check engine light on”. These reasons should give you an idea of why you should take your car to the garage immediately.
Let’s take a look!
1. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap
The gas cap is a crucial component of your vehicle which keeps your fuel vapours contained in the gas tank. It prevents the vapours from entering your engine, keeping it safe.
However, if your gas cap is faulty or loose, it allows the vapours to enter the engine. These vapours may cause engine failure or reduce your vehicle’s performance significantly.
One of the most common reasons that light up the check light engine is a loose and faulty cap. Therefore, if you see it illuminate on the dashboard, check if the cap is properly secured and isn’t damaged. If it’s broken, replace the cap immediately to avoid any additional damage to your engine.
2. Faulty Catalytic Converter
A faulty catalytic converter could be another reason why your check engine light is on. The catalytic converter plays a crucial role in controlling your car’s emissions. It breaks down dangerous pollutants like carbon monoxide, converting it into carbon dioxide.
If you’re facing any issues with the catalytic converter and see the check light engine on, we highly recommend visiting the experts at In Town Automotive. They can determine the cause of the problem and provide you with the right course of action.
It’s because if the converter is faulty, you need to replace it with a new part that’s compatible with your vehicle’s exhaust system. If you install a converter that’s not compatible, it could lead to further damage and repairs.
3. Worn Spark Plugs
Worn spark plugs also can be one of the main reasons why your check engine light is illuminated. If your vehicle has a worn spark plug, replace them as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your engine.
These spark plugs play a critical role in keeping a vehicle running smoothly. They tend to degrade with use, which may cause performance issues with your vehicle. Therefore, you should get them replaced from your nearby garage if you see a check engine light.
You should leave spark plug change in the hands of professionals because it’s crucial to choose the right one for the engine. If you don’t use the right plugs, the engine won’t function properly and the check engine light may return.
4. Dirty Mass Airflow Sensor
Your vehicle’s engine relies on a network of complex sensors to ensure it runs smoothly. One instance of such a sensor is the mass airflow sensor (MAF) which measures the quantity of air flowing into the engine.
If your mass airflow sensor is dirty or faulty, it can cause a wide range of problems to your vehicle. Fortunately, a faulty MAF will trigger the check engine warning light.
If you drive with a faulty MAF, the engine can lose power and damage vital components of your vehicle. Therefore, if you spot a check engine light on your dashboard, take it for a checkup at your nearby garage immediately.
Contact In Town Automotive for Check Engine Light Fixes and Repairs Today
Now that you’re aware of the common reasons for a check engine light, you need to deal with it appropriately. The best way to do this is by taking your vehicle for a visual check from the technicians at In Town Automotive.
You can book an appointment at our award-winning garage in Northampton and we can provide the appropriate fixes. We also provide car servicing and repairs for parts like brakes, exhausts, and more!
To learn more about us, visit our contact us page or call us at 01604 666 700 today!
bookings@intownautomotive.co.uk