check engine light near me (2023)

1. Defective oxygen sensor

Hidden in the tailpipe of your vehicle are several small oxygen sensors that constantly test the exhaust system to measure the air-fuel ratio. The sensor transmits this data to your vehicle's computer, which uses this information to create an optimal air/fuel mixture based on driving conditions. Therefore, the symptoms of a faulty oxygen sensor are not apparent to many drivers.engine control unitIt may be the first time you realize there is a problem. Fixing a major maintenance issue like a faulty oxygen sensor can improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency by up to 40%.according to the US Department of Energy.

2. Loose or damaged fuel cap

The check engine light could alert you to a problem with your vehicle's gas cap. Fixing the problem can be as simple as turning the gas cap to make sure it is tight, or replacing a damaged or missing gas cap. While it may not seem like a big deal, a loose, missing, or damaged gas cap will cause fuel vapors to escape and the EVAP system to malfunction. This in turn can result in an illuminated Check Engine Light.

3. Defective spark plugs

Spark plugs are small but powerful power packages. They create the electrical spark that ignites your vehicle's engine. But when spark plugs wear out, they can cause problems. If faulty spark plugs are not replaced, they can cause misfiring, wasted fuel, or damage to other parts of the vehicle. Worn spark plugs can also prevent your car from starting.

If the check engine light indicates a problem with the spark plugs, it's best not to delay troubleshooting. Otherwise, your vehicle's problem could be more serious than just a Check Engine Light. Bad spark plug wires, along with bad ignition coils, can also be responsible for the Check Engine Light. An ignition coil generates the current that allows the spark plugs to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine's combustion chamber.

make an appointmentat your local Firestone Complete Auto Care and one of our auto care experts can restore the spark to your vehicle.

4. Low battery

A low battery could be responsible for the Check Engine Light to illuminate. When a battery is faulty or not fully charged, it can't send the correct amount of power to your vehicle's computer system. This, in turn, can cause your check engine light to come on. It can also be displayed on the dashboard of your vehiclebattery lightthat comes on when there is a problem with the battery or alternator.

5. Defective Mass Air Flow Sensor

As the name suggests, the mass air flow meter measures airflow so that the engine's computer can help keep the vehicle running smoothly. If this sensor fails, your vehicle may stall, lose fuel efficiency, or idle. In some cases, the mass air flow sensor can be removed and cleaned or replaced with a new one. A problem with the air flow sensor could be related to a dirty air filter; Therefore, installing a new filter may help resolve the sensor issue. Regardless of the cause of a sensor problem, this situation can turn on your check engine light.

6. AGR-Ventilation problem

Your vehicle's Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) rating serves an important purpose: it helps reduce emissions of harmful nitrogen oxides by recirculating measured amounts of exhaust gases into the air intake system.

A faulty EGR valve can trigger your vehicle's Check Engine Light. A bad EGR valve that is not replaced can cause problems with fuel efficiency, power, and acceleration.

7. Damaged catalytic converter

Your vehicle's catalytic converter helps reduce air pollution by removing pollutants from your vehicle's tailpipe. How does it work? The catalyst converts three harmful compounds into less harmful compounds:

• carbon monoxide
• hydrocarbons
• nitrogen oxides

One sign that your catalytic converter may not be working properly is the smell of rotten eggs. Another sign - the Check Engine Light comes on. Damage to a catalytic converter usually occurs when faulty connectors or sensors have been overlooked. This damage can result in reduced fuel efficiency and higher operating temperatures.

You can help prevent your vehicle's catalytic converter from failing by monitoringregularly scheduled maintenance. If you suspect a problem with the catalytic converter, we can take care of that too.

8. Vacuum leak

A vacuum leak could be another reason for your check engine light to come on. While a vacuum leak may not be dangerous, it can cause a loss in vehicle performance and a drop in fuel efficiency. Given the number of parts in your vehicle's vacuum system, it is recommended that you call a trained Firestone Complete Auto Care technician.Fix a suspected vacuum leak.