Common Reasons For the Engine Light and How We Address Them

1. Faulty Oxygen Sensor
   Cars normally have two to four sensors. The code we get from the scanner allows us to identify the faulty oxygen sensor and replace it. If it’s not replaced, it could lead to a busted catalytic convertor which is more expensive to fix.
2. Damaged or loose gas cap
   A loose or cracked gas cap allows fuel to evaporate which leads to an increase in emissions and reduced gas mileage. A loose cap only needs to be tightened while a damaged one is replaced with a new one.
3. Problems with the spark plug
   Spark plugs require replacing after every 25,000 to 30,000 miles. If they fail, get them replaced immediately. When this problem is not fixed, it eventually causes the catalytic converter to fail.
4. Problems with the catalytic converter
   When the catalytic converter is not working properly, it leads to a decrease in gas mileage and also hinders the car from going faster when you push the gas. If you keep up with regular maintenance, the catalytic convertor shouldn’t fail. However, if it fails completely, we’ll replace it with a new one.
5. Failing mass airflow sensor (MAF)
   A faulty mass airflow sensor increases emissions, decreases gas mileage and causes the car to stall. We’ll replace it with a new one and install it properly. Always have the air filter replaced at least once every year to prevent the MAF sensor from failing.

Other causes of the check engine light include a leak in the engine vacuum, excessive release of air pollutants, bad ignition coil and a problem with the EGR valve.