QA

Question: Reasons Why The Check Engine Light Is On

Possible Reasons for Your “Check Engine” Light Coming On Loose or faulty gas cap. The lines and valves in your gas tank system recirculate gasoline vapors and keep them from escaping. Worn spark plugs. Faulty catalytic converter. Dirty or faulty mass airflow sensor.

What is the most common reason for check engine light?

Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor — a sensor used to optimize a vehicle’s fuel-to-air mixture to increase gas mileage and reduce emissions — is the most common cause for a check engine light.

Is it safe to drive with check engine light on?

Can you drive a car with the engine light on? It’s okay to drive for a few miles, but be sure to schedule an inspection of the engine as soon as possible. If the check engine light comes on while you’re driving, don’t panic! Just be sure to have your car inspected as soon as possible after the light turns on.

Why is my engine light on but nothing seems wrong?

Normally, the appearance of a check engine light indicates a problem somewhere in your vehicle, but nothing seems amiss. The problem can even be as simple as forgetting to tighten your gas cap – in fact, this is the most common reason why check engine lights appear in the first place.

Can your check engine light come on for no reason?

Why Is My Check Engine Light On? The check engine light can come on for many reasons. For example, something as simple as a loose gas cap can trigger the warning. And major problems, such as failed internal engine components, can turn on the light, as well.

When should I be worried about check engine light?

Unlike a Temperature or Oil Pressure light, a Check Engine light is usually not an urgent, “Stop right now or you may cause permanent damage!” type of situation, unless it is flashing. If your gas cap is loose or the seal is not tight, the vapor leakage can cause your fuel system to trigger the check engine light.

What does a solid check engine light mean?

A solid Check Engine Light can mean something like a loose gas cap, or it can indicate a more in-depth problem like a fuel, timing, or transmission issue. Get your car diagnosed, although the urgency isn’t the same as if the light was flashing at you.

Can AutoZone check engine light?

Does AutoZone Scan Check Engine Lights? AutoZone can diagnose Check Engine Light codes, yes. If your engine light turned on and you are wondering why, head down to your local AutoZone where one of our store associates can help diagnose the issue through our free Fix Finder service.

Can low fuel cause check engine light?

Fuel System Issues Something as simple as forgetting to replace the gas cap could cause your “check engine” light to come on. This is because the gas cap keeps vapors from escaping the fuel tank. A loose or broken gas cap can dramatically reduce fuel efficiency and increase emissions.

How much does it cost to get engine light checked?

There’s a lot that goes on inside your engine, and rooting out the problem and fixing it can be a costly proposition. How costly? On average, the fee to have an auto mechanic diagnose a check engine light is $100.

How long can you ignore check engine light?

The dreaded check engine light. Now, it wasn’t flashing, which I knew meant the problem was urgent. But how bad was the news going to be? A new study found that the average person will wait 9 days after seeing that light pop on before taking their vehicle in to see what is wrong.

Who can diagnose a check engine light?

Solving check engine light problems Take your car to a mechanic and pay a diagnostic fee. Often, the fee is waived if you agree to have the necessary service performed at that garage. Bring your car to an auto parts store and have the code read for free. Buy an inexpensive scanner and read the code yourself.

Why does my check engine light come on at half a tank?

Most likely, the fuel pump is having trouble picking up those dwindling volumes of gas at the bottom of the tank. Have your fuel filter checked to see if it needs to be replaced. Get your vehicle “scanned” to see if the computer code indicates a lean condition.

What are signs that your fuel pump is going out?

If you notice these six signs, consider taking your car to your local dealership to have the fuel pump replaced. Whining Noise From the Fuel Tank. The Engine Sputters or Surges. Trouble Starting the Car. Loss of Power Under Load. Reduced Gas Mileage. Stalling at High Temperatures.

How do I fix my car engine light?

If the check engine light comes on, here are some tips on what you should do: Look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Try tightening your gas cap. Reduce speed and load. Use built-in diagnostic services, if available.

Can I reset check engine light myself?

Turning the Ignition On and Off The on-off method is the equivalent fix for a vehicle’s check engine light. It forces the computer to refresh its saved state through a reboot. Simply place your key into the ignition and turn it on for 1-2 seconds, then turn it off for 1-2 seconds. Repeat this step three or four times.