Signs of performance problems are indicators that something is happening in your engine. Before a problem gets too big, resulting in a costly engine repair, ask your mechanic for advice on what can be done to restore your vehicle’s power and reliability. The best advice you will hear over and over again is to be sure and take care of all engine service items as recommended in your owner’s manual.
Of course, if you keep your car for very long and as the miles add up, there may come a time that you see the “Check Engine” light illuminate on the instrument panel, warning of potential engine problems. You may start to notice a decrease in gas mileage, loss of power, stalling, and increased toxic emissions. It’s time to head to your auto shop for a diagnostic test to find out what is happening under the hood.
So what is the most common reason for a check engine light to come on?
- Gas Cap – A loose or cracked gas cap allows fuel vapors to leak out and can throw the whole fuel system off.
- Oxygen Sensor – The oxygen sensor monitors the unburned oxygen from the exhaust and how much fuel is burned. The correct data isn’t sent to the car’s computer if this sensor fails.
- Catalytic Convertor – The catalytic convertor reduces exhaust gases by converting carbon monoxide and other harmful materials into harmless emissions. An increase in toxic fumes will be emitted into the atmosphere if this converter goes bad.
- Mass Airflow Sensor – This is the sensor that tells the car's computer to add the proper amount of fuel based on the air coming through to the engine. This sensor can become clogged and then cause problems.
- Spark Plugs and Wires – Spark plugs perform several jobs; they seal the combustion chamber, provide a gap for a spark to jump across, and initiate combustion in the engine. When the spark plugs or wires go bad, you will probably begin experiencing starting problems.
Remember: Timely engine service will help keep your vehicle performing strong and prevent unexpected and costly engine repair!
Need to know more about what is the most common reason for a check engine light to come on? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Phil’s Service today for more information about engine service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Killeen, TX, and the surrounding area.
Signs of performance problems are indicators that something is happening in your engine. Before a problem gets too big, resulting in a costly engine repair, ask your mechanic for advice on what can be done to restore your vehicle’s power and reliability. The best advice you will hear over and over again is to be sure and take care of all engine service items as recommended in your owner’s manual.
Of course, if you keep your car for very long and as the miles add up, there may come a time that you see the “Check Engine” light illuminate on the instrument panel, warning of potential engine problems. You may start to notice a decrease in gas mileage, loss of power, stalling, and increased toxic emissions. It’s time to head to your auto shop for a diagnostic test to find out what is happening under the hood.
So what is the most common reason for a check engine light to come on?
- Gas Cap – A loose or cracked gas cap allows fuel vapors to leak out and can throw the whole fuel system off.
- Oxygen Sensor – The oxygen sensor monitors the unburned oxygen from the exhaust and how much fuel is burned. The correct data isn’t sent to the car’s computer if this sensor fails.
- Catalytic Convertor – The catalytic convertor reduces exhaust gases by converting carbon monoxide and other harmful materials into harmless emissions. An increase in toxic fumes will be emitted into the atmosphere if this converter goes bad.
- Mass Airflow Sensor – This is the sensor that tells the car's computer to add the proper amount of fuel based on the air coming through to the engine. This sensor can become clogged and then cause problems.
- Spark Plugs and Wires – Spark plugs perform several jobs; they seal the combustion chamber, provide a gap for a spark to jump across, and initiate combustion in the engine. When the spark plugs or wires go bad, you will probably begin experiencing starting problems.
Remember: Timely engine service will help keep your vehicle performing strong and prevent unexpected and costly engine repair!
Need to know more about what is the most common reason for a check engine light to come on? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Phil’s Service today for more information about engine service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Killeen, TX, and the surrounding area.
