So Your Engine Warning Light Came On

If the workings of your car’s engine is a total mystery to you, you’re not alone. If your engine warning light comes on telling you to check your engine this can set you in a panic mode. In most cases, it’s not as bad as you might think and is probably not a serious situation. It could be something as simple as a loose fuel cap or a sensor that has malfunctioned. You should head to a good garage, they will perform a diagnosis and get it fixed in no time at all.

What Is An Engine Sensor?

The engine sensor is an indicator located on your dashboard. It will usually illuminate as a symbol or in text like “service engine”. Your car has a computer that continually monitors the operations of your vehicle using various sensors. When a problem arises, the computer will turn on the “check engine” indicator. The system is letting you know something is not operating properly. You should get it checked out as quickly as possible if for no other reason but as a precaution.

The Engine Light Came On, What Should I Do?

Usually, if the symbol or text is stable, it’s probably not critical. On the other hand, if it’s flashing you should get your car to a garage as quickly as possible. Keep in mind, if you drive around with a flashing engine light you could seriously damage your catalytic converter which will be quite expensive to replace. You should pull over, stop the car in a safe place, and have it towed to your garage.

If the indicator is stable, you can continue driving your car but it’s highly advisable you get to a garage as soon as you can. Even if you are able to drive, your car could be operating inadequately. Your car could be violating emission regulations or burning fuel much faster than it should. On top of that, ignoring the situation could lead to major damage down the road resulting in major repair bills. Also, if the problem is not fixed, your car will probably not pass the next MOT Test. If that happens, you cannot drive your car until the problem is repaired.

Common Problems That Can Set Off Your Check Engine Light

There are several reasons why the engine warning light came on. It could be something quite minor like a loose fuel cap or something a great deal more serious. In most cases, it has something to do with air intake, your fuel supply, or your exhaust system. Here are some reasons for the engine light coming on:

1. Fuel Cap

It could be something as simple as a damaged fuel cap or the cap is loose. Unfortunately, if you don’t get it corrected in a timely manner, you could lose fuel from your fuel tank by evaporation which can happen even when your engine is turned off.

2. Oxygen Sensor

The fault lies in the oxygen sensor. If not corrected, your fuel economy will drop over time. This could easily damage your spark plugs or your catalytic converter, so get it corrected as soon as possible.

3. Mass Airflow Sensor

Your mass airflow sensor is not working properly. If you don’t know, your mass airflow sensor regulates the best amount of fuel to keep your engine running properly. Going too long without correcting the problem could damage other sensors, your spark plugs, and/or your catalytic converter. All of which will set you back financially.

4. Spark Plugs

Your spark plugs are not good. Your spark plugs provide the spark to ignite your engine. If you have a faulty spark plug, your engine’s performance will be less than adequate. The engine’s performance will be harmed and through prolonged operation, it will cause serious damage to other areas of your engine.

5. Catalytic Convertor

Your catalytic converter is not operating properly. The catalytic converter turns carbon monoxide from the engine’s exhaust into carbon dioxide. Outside of affecting emissions and fuel consumption, your engine will probably operate at a much higher temperature. If that happens, your car will be emitting poisonous carbon monoxide into the air. You must get the problem repaired as soon as possible.

Getting Your Car Evaluated And Fixed

Once you get your car into a garage, they will perform a few steps to diagnose the problem. Your mechanic will pull data from your car’s computer by connecting your car up to a diagnostic computer and scan the system for any error codes. The coding received will help find the reason for the engine light coming on. After repairs have been made, the car’s computers will be reset. If everything has been repaired properly the engine light should not come on. If the warning light stays off, after a few days, you will know the problem was fixed.

If you are having problems with your car, you need to locate a good garage or mechanic that can fix the problem by using the right equipment and applying their expertise. Just make sure you locate a garage with a good reputation so you will be assured your car will be repaired properly.

You want to ensure your car will run properly for many years and the only way you can make that happens is taking proper care of it and getting it checked out if a problem arises.

Are you in or around Birchwood, Warrington, Winwick, Risley, Partington, Padgate, Newton le Willows, Lymm, Lowton, or Irlam? Lowton Motor Company Birchwood is the solution your car needs for any engine issues and problems that may arise in your vehicle. With over 25 years of experience, we will be able to find and fix the problem quickly and get your car back on the road. As the largest garage in Birchwood we provide a convenient and affordable service. For all types of car service and repairs, book your service using the simple booking form below. You can also email us or call us on 01925 330468.