5 Common Causes of Check Engine Lights and How to Address Them

You may have known the annoyance of having your check engine light suddenly come on while operating a vehicle. It might be a sign that something is wrong with your car, and you should fix it right away to prevent further damage or expensive repairs. 

 Here are five typical reasons why check engine lights come on, along with solutions:  

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2. 1. Faulty Oxygen Sensor  

The check engine light may come on if the oxygen sensor isn't working properly because it measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust system. Additionally, an oxygen sensor problem can also cause decreased fuel efficiency and harm to the catalytic converter.  

If the oxygen sensor is a problem, it can be quickly identified at one of the smog test centers in California and replaced there.  

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3. 2. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap  

One of the most frequent causes of the check engine light coming on is a loose or damaged gas cap. The gas cap keeps the fuel tank's pressure constant and prevents gasoline fumes from escaping into the atmosphere.  

In addition to lowering fuel efficiency, a loose gas cap can result in the emission of dangerous pollutants. At a smog check in Rancho Cucamonga, it is simple to fix the problem by replacing or tightening the gas cap.  

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4. 3. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor  

The mass airflow sensor calculates the amount of fuel required for combustion by measuring the amount of air entering the engine. The check engine light can come on as a result of a damaged mass airflow sensor, which can also cause poor acceleration, decreased fuel efficiency, and engine stalling. The best solution is to replace the sensor, which can be accomplished at an auto and smog repair facility.  

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5. 4. Failing Catalytic Converter  

The catalytic converter is an important component of the exhaust system that converts harmful pollutants into less harmful emissions. A failing catalytic converter can cause the check engine light to turn on and lead to reduced engine performance, poor fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.  

Only a smog test center can identify a failing catalytic converter, and it must be replaced at an auto and smog repair station.  

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6. 5. Dead or Weak Battery  

A dead or weak battery can cause the check engine light to turn on. The battery is responsible for providing power to the engine, and if it's not functioning correctly, it can cause other components to malfunction.  

In some cases, the check engine light may turn off after replacing or charging the battery. It's important to get your battery tested regularly at a smog check to avoid unexpected issues.  

Conclusion  

To prevent further damage or expensive repairs, it's critical to address a check engine light as soon as it appears on your dashboard. The problem can be located with the aid of a trip to a smog test facility for a Smog Check and it can be quickly fixed at an auto and smog repair facility.  

The check engine light is your car's way of alerting you that something needs to be done; do not ignore it.