A1 Auto & Cycle
Check Engine Light
Regardless of what form your “check engine” or “service engine soon” light takes on when illuminated on your dashboard, it is seldom something to ignore. This is just not one of those times to stick your head in the sand and ignore it, in the hopes it will just go away. Unfortunately, it will most likely not go away; and has the potential to cause great damage to vehicle and wallet alike!
For decades, cars had dashboard indicators that only monitored the basics: fuel level, oil temperature, coolant temperature and whether the generator or alternator was charging. That all changed in 1981 when federal clean air statutes required catalytic converters to be put on all domestic cars and light trucks, to help reduce the level of smog. Emission control is a process involving sophisticated sensors that compare the air contents entering and leaving the catalytic converter. Because many parts of the engine affect what comes out of the exhaust, it takes an “on board diagnostic” (OBD) system to keep everything performing properly.
The vehicle computer system essentially acts like a built-in emissions testing station, monitoring and adjusting dozens of components and processes. Many problems that cause the check engine light to come on are caused by the air/fuel mixture, bad spark plugs, plug wires, or a failed oxygen sensor. Anything causing poor engine performance or inefficiency can trigger the light.
Also, seemingly unrelated problems with the transmission, anti-lock braking system or even a loose gas cap could activate a check engine light. Though a warning may be caused by something minor, it can also predict a potentially dangerous situation. A thorough engine analysis is the only safe and reliable way to find out for sure.
On some cars, the check engine light may simply go on; on others, it may flash to indicate an immediate, potentially damaging situation. You should read your Owner’s Manual to learn what the check engine light means on your vehicle. Failure to heed an illuminated check engine light because the vehicle seems to operate normally could mean an expensive failure. It also can be a sign that your car is getting poor fuel economy and emitting higher levels of pollutants.
So remember, should your check engine light illuminate and you notice your vehicle running rough or out of the ordinary, first look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for any indication of low oil pressure or overheating. These conditions mean you should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as you can find a safe place to do so. Having your car checked out before driving it again may save you from any further damage.
A1 Auto Service has state of the art diagnostic equipment, computer software and knowledge to expertly diagnose the problem behind your vehicle’s check engine light. Just remember, although not all check engine lights indicate a serious problem, it could affect engine life, efficiency, and performance, so it should be taken seriously and investigated.
On some cars, the check engine light may simply go on; on others, it may flash to indicate an immediate, potentially damaging situation. You should read your Owner’s Manual to learn what the check engine light means on your vehicle. Failure to heed an illuminated check engine light because the vehicle seems to operate normally could mean an expensive failure. It also can be a sign that your car is getting poor fuel economy and emitting higher levels of pollutants.
So remember, should your check engine light illuminate and you notice your vehicle running rough or out of the ordinary, first look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for any indication of low oil pressure or overheating. These conditions mean you should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as you can find a safe place to do so. Having your car checked out before driving it again may save you from any further damage.
A1 Auto Service has state of the art diagnostic equipment, computer software and knowledge to expertly diagnose the problem behind your vehicle’s check engine light. Just remember, although not all check engine lights indicate a serious problem, it could affect engine life, efficiency, and performance, so it should be taken seriously and investigated.
Location
A1 Auto Asian & Domestic Service61 Lacombe Street Marlborough
Massachusetts 01752
(508) 460-3855
About Us
Quality Car Maintenance & Repair
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