Why is my check engine light on but my car is running fine?

Why is my check engine light on but my car is running fine?

These problems can range from faults within the electrical system, the engine, fluid levels or to problems within the car’s emissions system. The problem can even be as simple as forgetting to tighten your gas cap – in fact, this is the most common reason why check engine lights appear in the first place.

Why is my check engine light on when nothing is wrong?

Do a brake and steering check. If nothing seems to be acting strange, then it is probably safe to drive it until you can get it into a mechanic. Sometimes the light may come on after fueling if the gas cap is a little loose. Or it could mean your catalytic converter needs to be inspected.

Does the check engine light come on when you start the car?

The ignition system includes the spark plugs, coil packs, and everything else needed to ignite the air/fuel mixture inside the engine. As you probably guessed, the control module monitors ignition system operation. And it will turn on the check engine light if it detects a problem.

What triggers check engine light?

Loose or Broken Gas Cap The best news that you get get in regard to a check engine light is that it was caused by a loose gas cap. A loose, cracked or otherwise damaged cap can allow gasoline vapors to evaporate out of the filler hose, triggering the light! Always be sure your gas cap is tight every time you fill up!

What can throw a check engine light?

4 Common Reasons the Check Engine Light Comes On

• Broken or Loose Gas Cap. A loose or faulty gas cap will allow gasoline to evaporate out of the filler hose, causing the check engine light to come on.
• Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor.
• Bad Ignition Coil.
• Catalytic Converter.

What is the most common problem when the check engine light comes on?

A loose fuel cap is one of the most common reasons why the check engine light turns on. The cap is a crucial part of a car’s fuel delivery system. It notably prevents gasoline fumes from leaving the fuel tank, and it helps keep the whole system under the correct pressure.

Can low oil make check engine light come on?

Low oil pressure: If your car is low on oil, it can cause your check engine light to go off. This is often shown in its own glowing light along with the check engine light on the dashboard. Overheating: If your car’s engine temperature is heating up, it can once again trigger the check engine light.

What is the most common cause of a check engine light?

Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor — a sensor used to optimize a vehicle’s fuel-to-air mixture to increase gas mileage and reduce emissions — is the most common cause for a check engine light. With over 400,000 repairs nationwide, oxygen sensor replacements account for 8\% of all check engine light repairs.

Why did my check engine light come on all of a sudden?

A loose fuel cap is one of the most common reasons why the check engine light turns on. The cap is a crucial part of a car’s fuel delivery system. If your check engine light turns on immediately after a fill-up, pull over and make sure the cap isn’t loose — or still on your car’s roof.

Can low oil cause a check engine light to go on?

What does it mean if the Check Engine Light is flashing?

A flashing check-engine light generally indicates that there is a failure in the emission control system. The emission control system contains an array of sensors that work to reduce the amount of pollution released into the air. An oxygen sensor reads the air and fuel mixture and lights up when it is out of range.

Is it safe to drive with the Check Engine light on?

As a general rule, unless the check engine light is flashing, you can still drive the car. A flashing “check engine” light indicates an engine misfire, which can cause irreversible damage to the car’s catalytic convertor.

What causes engine light to go on?

Although the exact causes vary depending on the type of vehicle, the most common cause of the check engine light coming on is a faulty oxygen sensor. A loose gas cap also causes the check engine light to turn on, so owners should check this first.

What does your check engine light mean?

What the Light Means. The check engine light is part of your car’s so-called onboard diagnostics system. Since the 1980s, computers increasingly have controlled and monitored vehicle performance, regulating such variables as engine speed, fuel mixture, and ignition timing.