Check Engine Light Diagnostics in Apple Valley & Victorville, CA

The Light Is On

CEL FACTS

The Check Engine Light, also known as CEL, first appeared in cars in 1996. It was part of the on-board vehicle diagnostics update, known as OBD2. It is helpful when it comes to important vehicle maintenance, but has become a dreaded omen for drivers. While it may seem disastrous, understanding what your check engine light is, what causes it to illuminate, and how to address it can demystify this fearful dashboard indicator. This blog will explore the facts, common causes, and repair options for the Check Engine Light.

The Usual Suspects>/h3>

You get in your car and turn on the ignition. All of the lights come on as your vehicle boots up, ready for another journey of getting you safely from point A to point B. And then, the hiccup happens. All of the dashboard lights go off, except for one. Or, maybe even two. And all of a sudden, you’re stuck wondering if your vehicle is safe enough to drive. Your immediate reaction may be to panic; however, you can stop this reaction by knowing some of the common causes that trigger these lights. Surprisingly, a loose or damaged gas cap is one of the most common causes of an illuminated check engine light. A loose cap will allow oxygen to enter the fuel system, which messes with your vehicle’s efficiency when utilizing the gas in its tank to propel itself forward. You can easily fix this issue by tightening the cap, or replacing it altogether if it’s damaged beyond repair. But if that doesn’t work, it’s time to consider other reasons.

A faulty spark plug, ignition coil, or oxygen sensor could be the culprit. It will need specific diagnostics to find the correct code for the problem. These parts will likely need replacing. Problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the check engine light as well. This component reduces harmful emissions, and issues may lead to reduced engine performance. No matter the issue, it’s important to get your check engine lights looked at immediately. Driving on a serious issue can cause even more problems to build up, not to mention it threatens your safety as well as the safety of others on the road. So, don’t delay, take care of that CEL today!

What We Can Do

If you notice your CEL is on, take a deep breath and come to us. The technicians at Big Apple Automotive in Apple Valley & Victorville, CA, can help pinpoint the issue. We have the experience and technology to diagnose your CEL problems quickly and accurately. The Check Engine Light is not something to be feared but respected. It’s a helpful indicator that can alert you to potential problems with your vehicle’s engine and emissions systems.