Here are some more common reasons why your check engine light may come on:
- A loose or damaged gas cap. This is the most common cause of a check engine light. When the gas cap is not properly sealed, it can allow fuel vapors to escape from the tank. These vapors can damage the vehicle's emissions control system and cause the check engine light to come on.
- A faulty oxygen sensor. The oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases. This information is used by the engine computer to adjust the air-fuel mixture. A faulty oxygen sensor can cause the engine to run rich or lean, which can damage the emissions control system and cause the check engine light to come on.
- A faulty spark plug or ignition coil. A faulty spark plug or ignition coil can prevent the engine from burning fuel properly. This can cause misfires, which can damage the emissions control system and cause the check engine light to come on.
- A problem with the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter helps to clean up the exhaust gases by converting harmful pollutants into less harmful ones. A problem with the catalytic converter can cause the check engine light to come on.
If your check engine light comes on, it's important to have your vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic. Driving with a check engine light on can damage your vehicle's emissions control system and cause you to fail emissions testing.
