Nothing can create a feeling of dread like your check engine light blinking. This is especially true if you don’t know why it’s happening. At Van Wyk Auto, we have been helping drivers in Sheboygan County, Wisconsin, with their car problems for many years. We are here to help you whenever you need it.
On that note, below is everything you need to know about check engine lights suddenly turning on.
Why Is My Check Engine Light On?
Like any other car, your car has a complex diagnostic system. This system includes different sensors, wires, and warning lights. The check engine light is a general warning. It turns on to show many different problems with your engine or emissions system.
If your check engine light is flashing or staying on, it could mean several things:
Your Gas Cap Is Loose
A loosened gas cap is one of the most common and easy-to-fix causes of a check engine light. If you forget to tighten your gas cap after filling up, it can cause an air leak.
This may turn on the check engine light. Tighten the cap, and the light should go off in a few minutes. If that doesn’t fix the issue, consider replacing the cap.
A Sensor Has Failed
Your oxygen sensor monitors the amount of unburnt oxygen in the car’s exhaust. If it fails, your vehicle will be less fuel efficient and emit more harmful contaminants into the air.
The Catalytic Converter Isn’t Working Right
A faulty catalytic converter can also cause your check engine light to come on. Other warning signs will clue you into this particular issue, like poor acceleration or the smell of rotten eggs. Bring your car to one of our licensed mechanics right away so we can fix or replace the device.
Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils Need Attention
If your engine’s spark plugs or coil packs aren’t working correctly, it can misfire, and your check engine light will start blinking. These problems require immediate attention to avoid more serious damage.
The Engine Isn’t Getting Enough Air
Your car has a sensor that tracks how much air the engine receives. If the sensor is not working correctly, your motor will start running rough, and the check engine light will come on.
What to Do When Your Check Engine Light Comes On
Your first step in figuring out the issue at hand involves determining the status of the check engine light. This means checking to see if the light is steady or flashing/blinking.
A steady light means that your system has detected a problem, but it’s probably not an emergency. You should book an appointment with one of our trusted mechanics at Van Wyk Auto soon. However, you can keep driving for now.
A flashing check engine light, on the other hand, is serious business. Pull over safely and have your car inspected right away. Consider having it towed to our shop and avoid driving it to prevent severe damage to the engine.
Some cars have red and yellow check engine lights instead of blinking and steady lights. Yellow is synonymous with a constant light, while red is the equivalent of a blinking check engine light.
Even if your car seems to run well and the light is on, it’s smart to get it checked. Van Wyk Auto can diagnose the problem and get you back on the road.
Don’t Ignore Your Check Engine Light
Ultimately, it is in your best interests to always pay attention to a check engine light that has turned on. with Van Wyk Auto, and we’ll work to ensure your vehicle is in tip-top shape.