4 Common Check Engine Light Triggers

There is nothing that lights up the eyes of an automobile owner than when the check engine light suddenly blinks on. But calm down, it probably isn’t as bad as you think. The check engine light is actually a good thing, informing you of generally simple to fix problems that will only get worse with time. That means you need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop to have the light diagnosed before the problem expands. A good example of that is a failing catalytic converter, the first on our list of four common check engine light problems.

Bad Catalytic Converter
One of the most important parts of your car is something you’ll probably never even look at. The catalytic convert converts hazardous exhaust fumes into less harmful emissions as the gasses pass from the engine and out the tailpipe. If it is unable to do its job, the light will glow, but there is a good chance that the light was already on for awhile before you found out this was the problem. Generally something else has to fail to cause the catalytic converter to go bad. Repairing this part can be expensive, so always be sure to have the light diagnosed right away!

Loose or Broken Gas Cap
On the other side of the cost fence is finding out all you needed to do was tighten or replace your gas cap. If the cap is loose or faulty it will allow gas to evaporate up the filler hose, meaning you’re paying for fuel your car isn’t even burning, which triggers the light. So always make sure the cap is tight every time you leave the pump.

Faulty Ignition Coil
The ignition coil has an important job. It produces the spark necessary to get the vehicle started by creating an electrical pathway when you turn the key. Over the years the ignition coil is subject to wear and tear and if the check engine light is triggered by a bad ignition coil or switch, there’s a good chance you’re car has a lot of miles on it. Get to the shop before your car decides it doesn’t want to start!

Bad Mass Air Flow Sensor
Likely the most common cause of the check engine light glowing on modern vehicles is a bad mass air flow sensor. The MAF sensor monitors incoming air and regulates how much of the oxygen is able to be mixed with the fuel for proper combustion. If the MAF is malfunctioning it can cause a rich fuel mixture, decreasing fuel efficiency by as much as 25 percent!

While these are common issues that will cause the light to come on, they aren’t the only ones. Be sure to make an appointment with your local auto shop to have the issue properly identified. For check engine light diagnosis in Gretna bring your car, truck or SUV to West Transmissions Total Auto Care. Our team of experienced mechanics will be able to get your car’s health restored so you can continue cruising for miles and miles. Call West Transmissions today at 504-362-6947 when you need auto maintenance or repair, including our specialty, transmission repair in Gretna!

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