1. Faulty oxygen sensor: The oxygen sensor monitors the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gas and helps the engine adjust the fuel mixture accordingly. A faulty oxygen sensor can cause the engine to run rich or lean, which can lead to decreased performance, increased emissions, and a check engine light.
2. Catalytic converter issues: The catalytic converter helps to convert harmful emissions into less harmful substances. A clogged or damaged catalytic converter can cause the engine to run poorly and can trigger the check engine light.
3. Faulty spark plugs or wires: Spark plugs and wires are responsible for delivering the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine's cylinders. Faulty spark plugs or wires can cause the engine to misfire, which can lead to decreased performance, increased emissions, and a check engine light.
4. Faulty fuel injector: Fuel injectors deliver the fuel to the engine's cylinders. A faulty fuel injector can cause the engine to run rich or lean, which can lead to decreased performance, increased emissions, and a check engine light.
5. Vacuum leaks: Vacuum leaks can cause the engine to run lean, which can lead to decreased performance, increased emissions, and a check engine light.
6. Transmission issues: Transmission problems, such as a slipping transmission or a faulty shift solenoid, can also trigger the check engine light.
If the check engine light is on in your 2002 Acura MDX, it is important to have the vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to determine the cause and have the necessary repairs performed.