Six Reasons Why Your Check Engine Light May Have Come On

Picture this: you’re driving down the road when suddenly, your check engine light turns on. Your first thought may be to ignore it. After all, those things are infamous for coming on at random times. However, we’re here to tell you that ignoring it is a mistake!

Though it can be hard to recognize what the real problem is, your check engine light gives you some valuable insight into issues with your vehicle. Keep reading to learn a few of the leading causes of an illuminated check engine light in Everett, WA:

• Loose gas cap: Without a tight seal formed by the gas cap, your engine can’t get the fuel that it needs to do its job. If your check engine light turns on immediately after you fill up your tank, there’s a good chance that your gas cap is loose. Pullover and double-check that the cap is as tight as possible. If there’s a crack somewhere in the cap, you may have to get a new one from the nearest auto shop.
• Old spark plugs: Your spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel in the engine. Even though they’re small, they’re obviously essential for your car to operate. Spark plugs can last for up to 100,000 miles or even longer, but after a while, they may start to fail. On top of noticing rough idling, your check engine light may come on if you need new spark plugs.
• Bad spark plug wires: The issue might not be with the spark plug itself, but with the wires that connect the plug to the coil. Without properly functioning wires, the spark plug can’t do its job to ignite the fuel in the engine. Luckily, new spark plug wires will only set you back about $50.
• Aftermarket alarm issues: Installing an aftermarket alarm in your vehicle can be a gamble. If installed improperly, the alarm can drain the battery, prevent your car from starting and trigger your check engine light in Everett, WA. If this is indeed the cause of the light, you may need to have the alarm reinstalled by a professional mechanic.
• Faulty mass airflow sensor: As the name suggests, the mass airflow (MAF) sensor monitors how much air enters the engine. On top of the check engine light coming on, you may notice a rough idle, trouble starting the car or reduced gas mileage when the MAF sensor starts to fail. Only a mechanic will be able to tell for sure whether the light has to deal with this sensor.
• Vacuum leak: Your vehicle’s vacuum hoses don’t last forever. As they age and start to crack and wear down, your car will experience a host of problems related to the engine. Hopefully, your check engine light comes on before you notice any of the problems!

When your check engine light in Everett, WA comes on, be sure to bring your car to Auto Truck Service Inc. It doesn’t matter if the light is on because of a loose gas cap or old spark plugs—our team will figure out the problem and set it straight. We provide a wide range of services for all sorts of vehicles. Get in touch today to schedule an appointment!

Categorised in: Car Repairs