4 Main Reasons Your Check Engine Light Comes On

Check Engine Light Reasons - A Quick Guide

If you are not a mechanic, and you don't know much about cars, then it's understandable that you start to stress when the engine light comes on. However, it doesn't mean you need to freak out, or that the car will explode if you drive another mile. But the light is drawing your attention to something, and for the most part, it's better to have it looked at sooner rather than later.

To give you some idea of what could be causing the problem, here are some common check engine light reasons to remember next time.

It Can Be The O2 Sensor

The purpose of the O2 sensor is to measure the oxygen inside the engine that has yet to burn. But if the sensor isn't functioning properly, it will lead to two different things. Firstly, the check engine light will most likely come on. Secondly, the car begins to use more fuel than it is supposed to.

If it happens to be the sensor that is malfunctioning, it could damage other parts of the car like the spark plugs or catalytic converter.

Loose/Missing Gas Cap

Yes, something as basic as a gas cap can make the engine light jump to life. Now, the cap can either be missing, loose or damaged in some way. And the result is fuel getting lost through evaporation, and the pressure inside the gas tank won't be what it should.

This is not a major problem, but you will be wasting a lot of fuel if you don't address the issue.

The Catalytic Converter Is Faulty

The purpose of the catalytic converter is to convert harmful carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. And if this isn't happening properly, it could trigger the check engine light. This usually happens due to a lack of regular maintenance in general. 

As for not getting the problem fixed - you are bound to experience a less than impressive performance and fuel efficiency from the car.

Spark Plugs And Wires

Spark plugs and the proper plug wires are essential for maintaining a smooth ride. In fact, just one missing plug is enough to make the best car run like a messed up piece of junk.

So, if the check engine light comes on and it's been a while since the plugs and wires have been changed, now might be the right time to do it.

Of course, these are just some of the check engine light reasons, but they are definitely common.