Over time, nearly every automobile is prone to needing repairs. Considering that, your automobile has a section of indicator lights that inform you of any problems. One of the most common lights in this section is the check engine signal. Unfortunately, 10% of automobiles currently being driven have a check engine light on. Making matters worse, 50% of those drivers neglect this warning for over three months. Neglecting this important light means driving a vehicle that isn’t in optimal shape. With that in mind, here are four possible reasons your check engine light is on.
- Catalytic Converter Issues
An essential component of any exhaust is the catalytic converter. This device converts carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. Considering that, the catalytic converter is an extremely important part to keep properly maintained. If you’re dealing with a catalytic converter problem, you’ll likely notice strange sounds or smoke emitting from your vehicle. Receiving regularly scheduled oil changes can help extend the lifespan of your catalytic converter. - Spark Plug Problems
Another cause of many car repairs are issues related to spark plugs. These items play an important role while your vehicle is in operation. As fuel and air are mixed together, spark plugs act as an ignition device. If your car is behaving strangely while being driven, you’re likely dealing with a spark plug problem. It’s important to have this problem taken care of right away, as faulty spark plugs are known to cause damage to other parts of your vehicle. - Loose Gas Cap Connection
Surprisingly, not all check engine issues involve extensive car repairs. Considering that, a loose or missing gas cap is another common reason for a check engine light to come on. While it might seem that important, the gas cap plays a crucial role in making your vehicle work properly. Without a tight connection, you’re likely to lose fuel tank pressure. - Worn Down O2 Sensors
Auto repair shops regularly help customers solve O2 or oxygen sensor problems. It’s common for a worn down oxygen sensor to cause your check engine light to activate. While this should be an easy fix for most car repair services, you’ll want to get this issue resolved quickly. Faulty oxygen sensors often wreak havoc on how your vehicle consumes fuel. This item reads how much unburned oxygen is traveling throughout your automobile. If these readings aren’t accurate, you’re likely going to burn through fuel at an alarming rate.
In closing, it’s important to understand why your check engine light turns on. A recent survey found that nearly 77% of automobiles on the road were in need of maintenance or repair work. Ignoring your check engine light isn’t only bad for your vehicle, it could cause an accident. In fact, statistics show that mechanical failures make up for 12-13% of all automobile accidents. If you’re wanting to avoid these problems, regularly take your vehicle to a car repair shop. These shops provide tune up services, helping to ensure your vehicle is always ready for the road.