Most drivers wish that their cars could speak so they can know what the problem their vehicle is facing so they can get timely repairs. Vehicles don’t speak, but they can still communicate with you using a variety of signs.
A common sign through which your vehicle communicates most of the problems is through its check engine light. The check engine light is also known as the malfunction indicator; this is a signal from the car’s engine that something wrong is happening.
There are a range of problems due to which the check engine light is turned on. If you are confused as to why this light is on, then you should visit an auto repair shop in USA and diagnose the problem.
However, here we will discuss some of the common problems due to which you see the check engine light and why these problems are caused.
Oxygen Sensor Failure
An oxygen sensor is an essential component in any car’s exhaust system. Its primary purpose is to determine the amount of unburnt oxygen in a car’s exhaust system and send data back to the vehicle’s computer which uses this information to regulate the mixture of air and fuel that enters the cylinders.
If the O2 sensor is not functioning properly, then the engine will burn more fuel than usual, and this can also lead to damage to other components such as spark plugs and catalytic converter.
If the O2 sensor is not functioning properly, then the check engine light will be illuminated. Replacing this sensor is not very expensive, and you can get a new one for $150-$200.
Catalytic Converter is Not Working
The catalytic converter is included in your vehicle’s exhaust system, and it turns carbon monoxide generated during conversion into carbon dioxide as it is less toxic. Getting timely oil changes can enhance the life of your catalytic converter.
If you mostly drive your car in the city, then you should take your car on the highway after some time to ensure that the catalytic converter doesn’t get clogged.
Replacing your catalytic converter is quite expensive and costs between $400 to $600, depending on the type of car you are driving.
Issues with Spark Plugs
As the name suggests, a spark plug is used to create a spark of electricity needed to ignite the fuel and air mixture in the cylinders. The older vehicles had a single coil in their engine, but the modern cars have one coil per cylinder.
So, if you ride a V6, then you will have six separate coils to support ignition in each cylinder. If any one of the coils in your car is not functional, then the check engine light will be illuminated.
However, if you are driving a car with a diesel engine, then you don’t have to worry about spark plugs because these engines don’t need spark plugs for ignition.
Driving a car with faulty spark plugs causes a range of problems, such as the car shutting off unexpectedly, car jerking under heavy acceleration, and it can also cause engine misfires.
A good quality spark plug is somewhere between $30 to $50.
Braking System Failure
Modern cars are equipped with sensors that can determine the wear of brake pads. Most of the time, when the brake pads have worn out, and the braking system is sacrificed, then the check engine light is turned on.
If the level of brake oil is not up to the mark, then check that the engine light is on. Maintaining proper lubrication of the brake pads is essential to ensure their lifespan is maximized.
If you think that the brake pads are not functioning properly, then you should visit an auto mechanic who will lift your car and inspect the brakes and suspension. Moreover, if the brakes are not working like they used to, then you will also hear a squeaking sound.
ECU has Malfunctioned
In some cases, the engine light is turned on, but no problem is diagnosed. This is because the vehicle’s ECU has malfunctioned. An ECU is designed to keep your engine working smoothly, controlling the amount of fuel that enters the engine and burns in cylinders.
If the ECU has malfunctioned, then it causes the engine to perform abnormally. It will give the wrong inputs to burn fuel, which eventually results in loss of power while driving, and the fuel average is sabotaged.
Vacuum Leak
All cars come with a vacuum system that performs a range of functions. The brake booster is vacuum-operated, and it helps to lower emissions by routing the fumes as gasoline evaporates through the engine.
Your vacuum hoses can dry out and crack as they age, or the connections might be loose. This is a common problem of vacuum leaks, due to which your engine vibrates when idling.