Why engine light comes on

Changing your own spark plugs is also easier than it sounds. As its name implies, a spark plug wire transfers electricity from the coil to the spark plug. The vast majority of cars use a single wire per cylinder, but there are models — notably, some older Mercedes-Benzes — with two spark plugs per cylinder, and consequently two wires. Symptoms of bad spark plug wires include a rough idle, a noticeable drop in engine performance, and lower gas mileage.

The mass airflow MAF sensor monitors how much air enters the engine. Symptoms of an MAF failure include a rough idle, trouble starting, and a sudden change in the position of the throttle pedal. Reduced gas mileage and stalling can also indicate a MAF problem. It can drain the battery, trigger the check engine light, or even prevent the vehicle from starting.

Getting it done right in the first place might cost a little bit more, but the peace of mind that comes with having a fully functional alarm is priceless. Every car has a vacuum system that performs a wide variety of functions. The brake booster is vacuum-operated, and the vacuum system also helps lower harmful emissions by routing the fumes as gasoline evaporates through the engine.

This is the most common cause of vacuum leaks. Other common issues include cracked fittings and loose connections. It directs the hot exhaust gases back into the combustion chambers, which warms up the fuel and makes it easier to burn.

It also reduces emissions. The EGR valve can get clogged up or fail entirely. Also, note that disconnecting the battery will often reset your stereo system. Modern cars are brimming with high-tech bells and whistles, but you inexplicably still need a separate, aftermarket device to decipher why the check engine light is on.

Most motorists simply take their car to the dealership. Repair manuals are useful for deciphering codes, but Google usually has the answer. Its purpose is to reduce emissions from the exhaust with an efficiency level required by each state to control pollution. That is why we always recommend getting a diagnostic as soon as that light comes on. When the check engine light flashes, you should pull over safely and shut the vehicle off as soon as possible. Continuing to drive the car will do more damage and will cost much more to repair.

Keep in mind that if you keep driving, you will likely cause irreversible damage , most of it to the expensive catalytic converter. Do not risk the expense and have the car towed to your trusted repair facility for a diagnosis and repair. Which is a connector found on every post car and truck? All you have to do is plug an OBD-II scanner tool into it and, in most cases, out pops a code that tells you what the problem is. Complete that, and the warning light will turn off.

Some check engine light warnings are temporary. Then again, if the light does come on again soon, you must conclude that you do have an issue that needs to be addressed. Still, some discrepancies might arise between codes you read on your scanner and what the dealership or shop uncovers, so keep this in mind when the dealership gives you their diagnostic report.

You can find scanners all over the web. As you now know, there are several reasons as to why the check engine light may appear on your dashboard. Once you get the check engine light fixed and you are ready to hit the open road, make sure you have peace of mind by having the appropriate coverage. Here at Illinois Vehicle, we understand the importance of being covered at the right price in order to give you peace of mind. Get your free no-obligation quote here and see how much you can save!

Each piece of the puzzle is designed to minimize tailpipe emissions, thereby, protecting the environment and making the world a safer place. But trust us when we say an emissions equipment failure can easily turn on the check engine light.

Issues with sensors, modules, networks and wiring can trigger the check engine light. When it gets either too much or too little of one or the other, the control module will likely notice.

The device then turns on the check engine light. As you probably guessed, the control module monitors ignition system operation. And it will turn on the check engine light if it detects a problem. Some people think that the check engine light indicates that their vehicle is running low on oil. The engine check light can turn on for a number of different reasons, but a low oil level is typically not one of them.

Being low on oil is a serious problem, but it will not trigger your check engine light. It will, however, cause the oil light in your dashboard to turn on. This light looks like an oil can with a drop of oil dripping from its spout. If you see this light turn on, this could indicate that your vehicle needs more oil.

Do you hear any strange sounds? Is it still driving smoothly or is it stopping and surging? However, proceed with caution and be sure to get it diagnosed and repaired right away to prevent further damage. Slow down and try to avoid quickly accelerating or shifting gears. Remain at this slow, steady pace until you can safely pull over and turn off your vehicle.

It can be hard to figure out what a check engine light means on your own, but a mobile mechanic has the tools and equipment to figure it out. This code will not tell your mechanic the exact reason why your check engine light turned on.