The 5 most common engine light problems
The dreaded worry of any vehicle owner; engine lights. As if paying full attention to the road wasn’t enough, now there is reason to worry about the internal issues! If a light comes on, be sure to stop in a safe place as soon as you can. A red light requires immediate attention; whilst others mean you can carry on driving, allowing you to reach a garage professional. The engine light unfortunately comes with no indication as to what is causing it to light up - here are the 5 most common causes:
1. A faulty oxygen sensor
Most vehicles have between two to four oxygen sensors; they monitor the unburned oxygen leaving the exhaust and ultimately read how much fuel is burned, impacting mileage and emissions. The code you get from the sensor scanner will tell you which sensor is in need of replacing.
A sensors ability to change the oxygen and fuel mixture is impacted over the time that is is covered in oil ash. They should be changed quickly upon indication there is a problem, as this can further lead to a broken catalytic converter - something a lot more expensive to fix.
Fortunately, oxygen sensors are easy to replace and are detailed in the owners manual. Once you have located the damaged sensor, simply unclip it and reattach the replacement.
2. A mass airflow sensor fault
Mass airflow sensors tell a cars computer how much fuel to add based on the volume of air coming through the engine. A faulty sensor can cause a vehicle to stall, increase emissions and decrease mileage.
Frequently, airflow sensor issues arise due to the incorrect installation, or lack of replacement, of the air filter. Although it is often not an immediate problem, it is recommended air filters should be replaced once a year in order to stop the sensors from failing. It is best to seek a professional to replace your mass airflow sensor as they can ensure it is fitted correctly; they will also be able to spot if it is not just the sensor causing the engine light to turn on. Enquire today with used cars in Manningtree, we would be happy to help.
3. The catalytic convertor
Catalytic converter issues frequently come as a result of poor maintenance or are consequences of other issues such as deteriorated spark plugs or broken oxygen sensors. When Catalytic converters fail, they stop converting carbon monoxide into less harmful emissions. If converters are failing, there will be a noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency and you will be unable to increase much speed when pressing on the accelerator.
The implications of a failing catalytic converter mean you will not be able to keep the vehicle running for long - it is a problem of which should be fixed immediately. It is in every owner’s best interest to maintain their vehicle well as a replacement converter can be very expensive and will require the attention of a professional mechanic.
4. Spark plug
Working spark plugs are vital as they seal the vehicles combustion chamber and provide a gap for the spark to move across; initiating combustion in your engine. If plugs are failing, they misfire. A jolt will be felt in the car’s acceleration if this is the problem occurring.
Replacing spark plugs or coil issues are cheap, easy and will ultimately make your vehicle run much better - therefore it is best to be done right away. As this is a regular part of vehicle maintenance, they are usually easily accessible from the bonnet of the car. Although replacing failed spark plugs is easy enough to do yourself, a professional service can guarantee they are fitted properly.
5. A loose petrol cap
Assumed to be the easiest light cause to remedy, forgetting to fasten your engine cap will cause your dashboard to light up due to sensing incorrect pressure in the tank. However, this cause can be of more concern than you might initially think. If the light indicates it is a problem with the petrol cap, this can mean that fuel vapours are leaking out from inside; your cap may be cracked or not tightened properly. Leaking vapours can ultimately throw off the entire vehicle system, causing a reduction in used milage and increasing emissions.
If there is nothing obvious suggesting a whole vehicle problem, such jolting or other strange sensations, then the first thing you should check is the cap. Pulling over and ensuring it is on tight enough could be all you need to do - check over the cap for cracks too. If necessary replacement caps are inexpensive, can improve mileage and are easy to fit.
Although there are seemingly endless possibilities as to why your engine light might turn on, there are the 5 most common - therefore they are a good place to begin having a look should you find yourself roadside and taunted by a flashing red glow. If you have any further questions, please contact us. Our experience with used cars in Essex means we are equipped with a high level of professionalism and we would be happy to help.