Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor — a sensor used to optimize a vehicle’s fuel-to-air mixture to increase gas mileage and reduce emissions — is the most common cause for a check engine light.
What can cause a check engine light to come on?
Spark Plugs
Finally, worn spark plugs or plug wires will result in a check engine warning. Just about anything wrong with your vehicle’s ignition system will likely cause your check engine light to come on. … Stalls are another indicator of spark plug trouble.
How do you fix a check engine light?
If the check engine light comes on, here are some tips on what you should do:
- Look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. …
- Try tightening your gas cap. …
- Reduce speed and load. …
- Use built-in diagnostic services, if available.
Can a check engine light come on for no reason?
Something as simple as forgetting to replace the gas cap could cause your “check engine” light to come on. … Faulty ignition – Spark plugs ignite the fuel as it flows through the engine’s cylinders. Failing to replace a spark plug could lead to catalytic converter failure or other serious problems.
When should I be worried about check engine light?
Both a solid and flashing engine check light indicates that a problem has been detected. However, a flashing engine check light indicates that it is a serious problem that requires your immediate attention. If you see a flashing light, it’s best to contact a mechanic as soon as possible to prevent serious damage.
Where can I get my engine light checked for free?
At a local auto parts store
- Advance Auto Parts.
- AutoZone.
- Napa Auto Parts.
- O’Reilly Auto Parts.
- Pep Boys Auto Parts.
Can AutoZone reset check engine light?
Does AutoZone Scan Check Engine Lights? AutoZone does. If your light is on, and you are wondering why, head down to your local AutoZone where one of our store associates can help diagnose the issue through our free Fix Finder service.
Can needing an oil change make your engine light come on?
1. Your Car Needs an Oil Change. An illuminated check engine light is the first warning sign that your vehicle needs an oil change. It can activate because the oil is too dirty or when there’s not enough flowing throughout the engine.
How long can you drive with engine light?
When the check engine light is solid, you can typically drive the car for hundreds of miles without an issue. Of course, that depends on which code is stored in the vehicle’s computer. If an engine sensor is faulty, the car will usually use made up sensor values to keep running.