Your car’s check engine light, also known as the malfunction indicator lamp, serves as an early warning system for potential engine troubles. It’s like your car’s way of telling you something isn’t quite right. When it suddenly illuminates on your dashboard, it can easily trigger a wave of anxiety and a flurry of questions. Is it a minor issue? Or is it something serious, like engine problems, that requires immediate attention? It’s not always easy to tell.

In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 of the most common reasons why your check engine light might be on, helping you understand the possible underlying issues and what your next steps should be. Buckle up, and let’s dive into the world of automotive diagnostics and repair.

Call 317-475-1846 When You Need Check Engine Light Diagnostics in Indianapolis Indiana

Top 10 Reasons Why a Check Engine Light Comes On

1. Loose Gas Cap

It might seem like a simple and almost comical reason, but a loose gas cap can actually cause your check engine light to come on. Your car’s fuel system is designed to be airtight, and when the gas cap is not properly sealed, it can lead to an incorrect fuel-to-air ratio that triggers the light. If this is the case, simply tighten or replace your gas cap and see if the light goes off.

2. Faulty Oxygen Sensor

Your car’s oxygen sensor measures the amount of unburned oxygen in your exhaust system and helps regulate the fuel-to-oxygen ratio. A faulty sensor can cause your check engine light to come on and reduce your gas mileage, leading to a higher level of emissions. It’s important to have this sensor replaced promptly to avoid further engine damage and reduce your impact on the environment.

3. Failing Catalytic Converter

Catalytic converters are responsible for reducing harmful emissions from your car’s exhaust fumes. When it fails, not only can it cause your check engine light to come on, but it can also lead to decreased engine performance and increased pollution. If you notice a decrease in acceleration or an unusual smell from your exhaust, the catalytic converter may be the culprit.

4. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor

The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air entering your car’s engine and helps regulate fuel flow. When this sensor malfunctions, it can cause a variety of issues, including decreased gas mileage and engine performance. Ignoring the problem can lead to more severe engine damage, so be sure to address any issues with your mass airflow sensor as soon as possible.

5. Faulty Spark Plugs or Wires

Spark plugs and wires are essential components in your car’s ignition system. When they fail, your car may have trouble starting, and the check engine light can come on as a result. Regularly checking and replacing these parts can prevent further damage and keep your car running smoothly.

6. Worn-Out Timing Belt

The timing belt is responsible for synchronizing the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft in your car’s engine. When it becomes worn or damaged, your engine may misfire, leading to a check engine light warning. If left defective, a broken timing belt can cause significant and costly damage to your engine.

7. Faulty Ignition Coil

The ignition coil is responsible for supplying electricity to your car’s spark plugs, allowing them to ignite the fuel in the engine. When it fails, your car may experience issues with starting or acceleration, and the check engine light can come on as a result. Replacing a faulty ignition coil is relatively simple and can prevent further problems down the road.

8. Loose or Damaged Exhaust Pipe

If you hear a hissing noise coming from your exhaust system, it could be a sign of a loose or damaged exhaust pipe. A damaged pipe can cause your check engine light to come on and also lead to increased emissions and decreased fuel efficiency. It’s essential to have any issues with your exhaust system addressed promptly to avoid further damage and costly repairs.

9. Low Fluid Levels

If your car’s fluid levels, such as oil, transmission fluid, or coolant, are running low, it can cause your engine to function improperly. This can trigger your check engine light and potentially lead to more severe engine damage if not addressed promptly. Regularly checking and topping off fluid levels is an essential part of car maintenance and can prevent costly repairs in the future.

10. Electrical Issues

Modern cars are heavily reliant on complex electrical systems to function correctly. If there’s a problem with any of these systems, such as the battery or alternator, it can trigger your check engine light warning. Have an expert perform a diagnostic test using a check engine light reader to pinpoint the exact issue and prevent potential breakdowns on the road.

Conclusion

While seeing your check engine light come on can be a cause for concern, it’s important to remain calm and address the issue promptly. Ignoring warning signs can lead to more severe and costly engine damage in the future. By understanding these 10 common reasons why your check engine light is on, you can be better equipped to identify and resolve any potential issues with your car. Remember, regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial for keeping your car running smoothly and efficiently.

Is your check engine light flashing or illuminated? If so, you need immediate automotive diagnostics at an affordable price. Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

What Does an Alternator Do?

The alternator in your vehicle plays a vital role in its overall operation and performance. Basically, the alternator supplies your vehicle with electricity. This electricity is used to power all sorts of mechanical systems and electronics within your car, including the head and taillights, interior cabin lights, heating and cooling, onboard computer systems, GPS systems, stereo, radio, dashboard operating systems, and much more. Without a properly functioning alternator, you will start to notice problems with one or more of these systems within your vehicle. This is how you can look out for the signs of alternator problems.

Oftentimes, people confuse alternator problems with car battery problems because they both supply vehicles with power. However, the alternator is responsible for charging the car battery. So, if you are experiencing electricity-related problems in your vehicle, check your car battery first. If your car battery checks out, you can safely assume your alternator needs a turn in the repair shop.

Common Signs of a Malfunctioning Car Alternator

➀ Electrical Problems

As mentioned, if you start to notice problems with any of the electrical or computerized systems within your vehicle, you might want to assume that it’s the alternator. But first, always check on the car battery to be sure.

➁ Dead Battery

If your car battery checks out in the moment, but then later fails on you, and then continues to do this over and over again, your alternator could be the underlying culprit. If you find that your jump starting your car on a regular basis or your car keeps dying while out on the road, you may need to replace alternator.

➂ Dimming Lights

Because alternators supply vehicles with a source of power, one of the first indications of alternator malfunction is dimming lights. Headlights, taillights, and interior cabin lights can appear dimmer or weak, and may even flicker. If you notice this in your vehicle, it is important to have your car battery and alternator checked out right away.

➃ Strange Noises

A common problem with alternators actually stems from a loose serpentine belt. If the serpentine belt is stretched out, which commonly happens with age, it can lose its ability to spin the alternator pulley effectively.

If you hear squealing sounds coming from your car when you started it, it could be an indication that your serpentine belt is defective and has alternator to lose charge. If you hear grinding sounds or growling noises, it can be an indication that your internal bearings have corroded or deteriorated.

➄ Illuminated Warning Lights on the Dash

If you see any warning lights on your dashboard light up, such as your “ALT” light, battery light, or your Check Engine Light, you might want to take a look at the alternator. This is especially true if you get both the battery light and the check engine light on at the same time. If you just get the car battery light, check your battery to see if it still has charge. If it is not your car battery, take it into the shop to have alternator checked out.

➅ Engine Stalling

If your engine is repeatedly stalling when you start or drive your vehicle, it is a telltale indication of an alternator malfunction. The fuel injectors are simply not getting the power they need to fuel the engine and keep it going. This situation typically leads back to the alternator.

Are you looking for a trusted Indy auto shop that can repair your alternator at a price you can afford? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for engine repair and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana you can afford. We also offer auto service coupons and discounts!

Related Posts:

Northeast Auto Service

Tag Archives: check engine light is on

10 Common Reasons Your Check Engine Light is On