Why Is My Check Engine Light On?

It's a situation most drivers dread—without warning the check engine light on the car's dashboard suddenly turns on and you have no idea what it means or what to do. This confusion is understandable because the light may come on for many reasons. Sometimes the alert may have been triggered by a condition that is minor and easy to address, while in other cases it may be an indicator of a serious problem that needs to be looked at. It is very important to have a licensed mechanic assess the vehicle, as delaying maintenance may lead to further damage and more costly repairs. Be sure to stop by the Melloy Dodge service center in Albuquerque. Our licensed mechanics will be happy to take care of any issues related to your check engine light.

Before coming in for maintenance, it is possible to learn a little bit more about why the light came on. Some newer model vehicles display a diagnostic code on the dashboard, which can help give you some insight into the problem. You can do so by looking up the code in the driver's manual, or online. Keep in mind that the code will only point to the general source or location of the issue. Most likely, a licensed mechanic will need to fully identify and repair the problem. Here are a few of the most common causes:

•The gas cap is loose. Try tightening it and see if the light turns off.
•The mass airflow sensor or oxygen sensor needs replacement. If these parts are malfunctioning, the vehicle may have reduced fuel economy and suffer possible damage to other engine parts.
•The catalytic converter is damaged. This part is critical to the emissions system and damage will hinder performance and fuel economy.

It’s okay to err on the side of caution when the check engine light comes on. However, never ignore this alert. A timely checkup could easily prevent much more costly repairs down the road. To get your vehicle checked or for routine maintenance, reach out to the Experts at Melloy Dodge!