Top 5 Reasons Your Check Engine Light Is On You're cruising down the road when suddenlyâding!âthe check engine light pops on. đŹ Now what?
Don't panic. That little light is your car's way of saying, "Hey, something's not right." Here are the top reasons it happens and what you should do.
Loose or Damaged Gas Cap Yes, it's really that simple sometimes. A loose gas cap can cause a drop in fuel pressure, triggering the check engine light. Fix: Tighten the cap or replace it if cracked. Easy win!
Faulty Oxygen Sensor Your oxygen sensor monitors the fuel/air mix. If it fails, it can throw off your car's efficiencyâhurting performance and fuel economy. Fix: Get a diagnostic scan to confirm and replace it ASAP.
Bad Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils Worn spark plugs or ignition coils can lead to misfires, rough idling, andâyou guessed itâthe check engine light. Fix: Replace spark plugs every 30,000â100,000 miles, depending on type.
Failing Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter helps reduce emissions. If it's failing, your car might run hotter, use more fuel, and trip the light. Fix: This one can be priceyâso catch issues early by fixing misfires or replacing sensors before they cause catalytic damage.
Mass Airflow Sensor Issues This sensor helps control how much fuel the engine gets. When it's dirty or malfunctioning, you'll get poor mileageâand a check engine alert. Fix: Clean or replace the MAF sensor, especially if you notice sluggish acceleration.
What Not to Do When the Check Engine Light Is On
- Don't ignore the light for too long
- Don't try to reset it without fixing the problem
- Don't keep driving if the car feels unsafe
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I drive with the check engine light on?
A: For minor issues, yesâbut get it checked ASAP to avoid bigger problems.
Q: How do I know what's wrong?
A: Use an OBD-II scanner or visit an auto parts store for a free scan.
Q: Is it expensive to fix?
A: Some fixes are cheap (gas cap), others can be costly (catalytic converter).