Reasons Why Your Engine Light is on – Quality Auto Care Tips from Water Star Motors

 A car’s check engine light usually turns on when it’s already time for a preventative care service. A service warning light might also show up on your dashboard. However, there are times when the check engine light comes on, not because of the routine service but an issue with some auto parts. This may include the catalytic converter, gas cap, mass airflow sensor, oxygen sensor or spark plug.

Water Star Motors can run a diagnostic evaluation to determine why your car’s check engine warning is on and repair the problem so you wouldn’t be bothered any longer.

Mass Airflow Sensor

The mass airflow sensor in your car’s engine is a sensor used to determine the air coming into the engine. The air mass information is critical for the engine control unit to make the correct fuel mass mixes to the engine. A faulty mass airflow sensor can cause several drivability issues, including a lack of power, stalling, no-start and poor acceleration. Furthermore, your check engine or service engine light will come on.

Oxygen Sensor

The same goes for your vehicle’s oxygen sensor. These sensors help manage your car engine’s air-fuel ratio. If your oxygen sensor becomes faulty, your car could run irregularly or sound rough when it idles. It could affect your engine and combustion timing, damaging other vital functions. One of the most common reasons a check engine light comes on while driving is a problem with the oxygen sensor.

Catalytic Converter

We hope your check engine warning is not due to an issue with your vehicle’s catalytic converter. It can be costly to replace the catalytic converter, and your car can’t go anywhere without it. The catalytic converter is responsible for converting harmful emissions into a harmless gas. They often last ten years or longer and should only be replaced when needed.

If you notice a smell of sulfur or rotten eggs from the exhaust, along with the check engine warning, your catalytic converter probably is the problem.

Gas Cap

Cracks, broken seals, or cover not tightened are some causes of a loose gas cap. Your check engine warning will light in your dashboard because there should be a vacuum seal with the lid once you’ve tightened it. We hope your check engine warning didn’t light because you didn’t close your gas cap enough the last time you filled your vehicle.

Spark Plugs

Worn out plug wires or spark plugs will light the check engine warning of your car. Any problem in your vehicle’s ignition system will likely cause your engine light to show up. We recommend having your plugs changed or possibly new wires installed every 30,000 miles.

We offer exceptional check engine warning diagnostics for your vehicle. Come, visit us at Water Star Motors, 318-A River Street, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060 today. You may schedule an appointment online or call us at (831) 621-5834. Our service desk will get you in right away. Remember, harmony in your car is essential to have peace in your path, creating world peace one car at a time!