5 Reasons Your Check Engine Light Is On

It may be a little nerve wracking when your check engine light comes on. Nobody likes to see that their car is deteriorating. Usually, there is no warning or explanation for why the check engine light comes on. When you see this light come on, it means there is a trip to the best auto service department at the Lake of the Ozarks. There are many reasons why a vehicle's check engine light can come on, however, these are the five most common reasons.


1. Gas Cap Is Loose, Damaged or Missing

You wouldn't think a gas cap would be that important, but it is. When a gas cap becomes loose or is broken, it can leak out fuel vapors, which can throw the whole fuel system off. If your check engine light comes on, but your car isn't feeling jerky or strange, the first thing you should check is the gas cap.

2. Catalytic Converter Needs Replacing

Catalytic converters are another common item that drivers face. The catalytic converter works to reduce exhaust gasses. This is primarily because these parts won't fail unless there is another underlying issue. When it fails, it stops converting carbon monoxide into less harmful emissions.

3. Replace Oxygen (O2) Sensor

Malfunctioning oxygen sensors are one of the most common car repair problems. The O2 sensor can fail as a result of neglecting car repairs, engine issues or simply from using gas with a higher concentration of ethanol. Over time, the sensor gets covered in oil ash and it reduces the sensors ability to change the oxygen and fuel mixture.

4. Spark Plugs Or Wires Need Replacing

The spark plug ignites the air/fuel mixture in the combustion chamber of your vehicle. The spark plug wires deliver the spark from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. When the plugs are failing, the spark plug misfire, which will make your car jolt while accelerating.

5. Replace Mass Airflow Sensor

The mass airflow sensor tells the car's computer to add the proper amount of fuel based on the air coming through to the engine. When the mass airflow sensor becomes faulty, it can increase emissions, cause the car to stall and it can decrease gas mileage.

If your check engine light, don't wait to bring it to Lake of the Ozarks' best auto service department. If you wait to bring your car in, it could make the problem worse. Make sure you keep your vehicle running like new by performing regular maintenance. This could help keep your car running longer and save you from costly repairs. If you need to make an appointment for your vehicle, contact our service team at 573-317-3232.

That's The Way We Do It At Hulett!

513 N. Business Route 5
Camdenton, MO  65020

Sales: 573.317.4191


Service:  573.317.4195

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