If your check engine light stays illuminated after you start your vehicle or comes on while you’re driving, something is wrong. Should you be worried? Yes, but not too much. Usually, the issue is easy to diagnose and resolve. Kauai Auto Repair, LLC, has the diagnostic equipment to isolate the reason why your check light has come on, and we also have the certified technicians to fix the problem.
Warning Lights 101
Today’s car, truck or SUV is an amazing feat of automobile technology. Vehicle systems are automated and monitored at all times by an onboard computer that can make necessary adjustments when needed. In fact, when you first start your automobile, the onboard computer checks all systems to make certain it’s safe for you to drive. If not, it will shine a dashboard warning light.
The check engine light is one of those warning lights, and it’s a catch-all for systems not covered by other lights. Your dashboard likely has warning lights for your anti-lock braking system, oil level, seatbelts, temperature and tire pressure. These lights will turn on if something specific to that system is wrong. The onboard computer turns on the check engine light for all other concerns.
Things That Could Be Wrong
The onboard computer will turn on the check engine light when you first start your car and leave it on if it’s not safe to drive. It will also turn it on while you’re driving if any of the following occur
- Your oxygen sensor fails
- Your gas cap is too loose or has lost its seal
- Your catalytic converter is not operating as it should be
- Your mass airflow sensor is returning an error
- You need to replace your spark plugs or spark plug wires
These are the five primary reasons why a check engine light might come on. It will also illuminate for other concerns, which is why auto mechanics recommend a diagnostic test to isolate the problem.
Diagnostic Testing
To perform a diagnostic test, a mechanic will hook up your vehicle’s onboard computer to a machine to test all systems and then download the computer’s data. The computer itself will test each vehicle system, collect information and return error codes if something goes wrong. For example, if your oxygen sensor is the culprit, it will return the applicable error code when it tests your exhaust system.
If your check engine light comes on while you’re driving, bring your vehicle into Kauai Auto Repair, LLC. We are located in Lihue, HI. You can also call us at today to set up an appointment.
