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MOST COMMON REASONS FOR THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT
American Pride Automotive • December 16, 2013
It’s one of every vehicle owner’s most dreaded moments. You’re driving to work, minding your own business, when suddenly….the check engine light pops up on the dash. Ugh! In addition to having to take time out of your week to bring the car to the shop, you know there’s a chance that you are facing an extremely costly engine repair. While this may be the case, there’s also a chance that the issue causing the check engine light is as cheap and minor as a loose gas cap. Here are a few of the most common causes for the check engine light according to a study released by CarMD.
1. BAD 02 SENSOR
You should thank your check engine light for this one. While a properly functioning O2 sensor measures the amount of unused oxygen in the engine exhaust to indicate efficiency and adjust gasoline usage, a malfunctioning one misreads the levels, leading to significantly decreased gas mileage. Replacing the 02 sensor will fix the problem and increase vehicle efficiency and since it’s a common repair, won’t break the bank.
2. LOOSE OR DAMAGED GAS CAP
Yep, something as simple and seemingly harmless as a loose gas cap can trigger the check engine light. This is because it disrupts the air to fuel ratio. A loose gas cap also disturbs fuel economy. If you think that may be the reason for your check engine light, head to the nearest auto parts store and pick up a new cap for next to nothing.
3. BROKEN CATALYTIC CONVERTER
The catalytic converter is another vital part of a vehicle’s emissions control systems. It converts harmful exhaust gases like carbon monoxide into less harmful gases to lessen air pollution and health risks. If you have paid attention to regular vehicle maintenance, the catalytic converter is unlikely to malfunction, but if it does, it is is an expensive but necessary repair.
4. MALFUNCTIONING MASS AIRFLOW SENSOR
Changed your air filter lately? If not, your check engine light may be indicating a bad mass airflow sensor. The mass airflow sensor detects the amount of air flow making its way to the engine to control how much fuel is supplied to the engine. Another indication that you’ve got a broken mass airflow sensor is decreased fuel economy and poor acceleration. Don’t worry, it’s not a hugely significant or costly repair.
5. SPARK PLUG ISSUES
When spark plugs misfire, the engine’s combustion process becomes labored and eventually stops. Spark plugs are easy to replace and doing so is part of regular vehicle maintenance.
It’s tempting to ignore the check engine light until your car breaks down, but we promise that you’re better off bringing your vehicle into American Pride Automotive as soon as possible. Problems surrounding the engine can be serious but catching them early can potentially save you thousands of dollars. Our ASE-certified auto technicians are experts in engine repair. Call or contact us today.
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You’re driving home at night and it is raining cats and dogs. You can’t see but 20 feet in front of your car, but you’ve slowed down and are being extra cautious, so what could go wrong? Then you feel it. A sinking Cl-clunk. Maybe that “puddle” you saw ahead of you was deeper than just a puddle. Before you know it, your car is stalling in the high water in the middle of the road. Now what? First off, don’t panic. Turn on your hazards and crank the ignition once. If the car starts, make it dry land and pull over to assess the damage. If it does not start the first time, do not try to start it again. Doing so can result in a hydro locked engine and will likely necessitate the rebuilding or replacement of the engine. Unfortunately, if you find yourself stalling in water at all, your vehicle will probably need costly repairs. The best way to avoid water damage is to practice safe and smart driving in wet weather, which brings us to Part 2 of the Everything Auto “Blame it on the Rain” series (Find Part 1 here). Take heed of these severe weather driving tips: 1. TAKE NO CHANCES ON PUDDLES Even if the standing water ahead of you looks shallow enough to drive through, think twice. If the water is “rushing” or if other drivers are making a point to avoid it, don’t assume that your vehicle is the exception. Additionally, you never know the hazards that lay at the bottom of a puddle. Hidden potholes or debris can pierce your tires and jostle your alignment and suspension system. 2. IF YOU MUST TAKE A CHANCE, TAKE IT SLOW AND STEADY When you deem it necessary and safe to drive through water of questionable depth, go slowly. Speeding through a puddle, even a shallow one, can splash water into your vehicle’s intake and critically harm the engine. Like we mentioned last week, after driving through standing water, lightly tap your brakes to make sure they aren’t saturated and to dry them off. 3. KEEP A ROADSIDE EMERGENCY KIT HANDY Sometimes, no matter how careful you are on the road, accidents and vehicle malfunctions happen, especially in wet severe weather. That’s why it is extremely important to keep emergency supplies ready in the trunk for the worst case scenario. You can buy a preassembled one, but it is cheaper (and more rewarding) to assemble your own. What should you include? Edmunds.com provides an excellent comprehensive list of items, a few of which include: 12-foot jumper cables Four 15 minute road flares Two quarts of oil A gallon of antifreeze A first-aid kit. Find the rest of the list here We hope that this series has given you helpful safety insights and tips for driving in the rain! Remember that American Pride Automotive is always here to help and ready to answer any and all of your auto repair and maintenance questions! Call or contact us today.
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