These tips will
help you determine whether your car needs a small, simple tune-up or large,
serious repair.
For most car owners, the most confusing warning light on the dashboard reads "check engine.” This tiny suggestion might as well read “panic” for some people, as it can light-up for no apparent reason, resulting in an unplanned auto bill just to figure it out. I’m here to help you diagnose, and sometimes even fix, the various problems that can make you “see red.” So, the next time your “check engine light” comes on don’t panic! Don’t call your mechanic. Bookmark this website and let me tell you how to turn off that light.
1. Check for serious problems. If you’re driving, pull over to check for a serious problem needing immediate attention. First, look at the vehicle’s dashboard for signs of low oil pressure or overheating. Next, shut off the engine if either of these issues is present. Some cars feature 2 different "check engine" lights. The YELLOW one indicates a problem that can be fixed later on, but a RED light always means stop immediately.
2. Reduce your speed and engine load. When the "check engine" light is blinking, or you notice serious performance problems (IE. loss of power), reduce your driving speed. Also try to reduce the load on the engine. If you’re towing a trailer, you should stop. Have the car promptly checked by a professional to prevent further damage.
3. Check your Harley gas cap. About 10% of the time the problem is simply, that the gas cap, which is about a $3 repair. In fact, this was THE most common issue over 12 years of data. So, try taking off your gas cap. Then, put it back on...and make sure it's on good and tight. Since the check engine light is connected to the car's emissions system, it comes on when there are fuel vapors leaking from the gas cap. In fact, a loose gas cap is the #1 reason the warning light is activated. NOTE: Sometimes it takes a few trials to reset the system. So, don't assume that was not the problem, just because the light does not go out after checking the gas cap. If the car is still running well, repeat this step a few more times. Letting the Check Engine light stay on due to a defective gas cap will release will decrease fuel economy by 5%.
4. Get the engine’s diagnostic system code. The engine's diagnostic code is also available for free from an automotive pro. Many auto parts stores and franchise oil change and service shops will read the code for you for free (most often it’s a single letter, followed by numbers) ...but then pressure you to feel obligated to hire them for the repair. If you’re like me.
If it’s a major repair, the trouble code produced often refers to multiple problems. It may be best to work with a mechanic to diagnose the full extent of the car’s problem.
5. Oxygen sensors nearly 10% the "check engine" lights illuminated in 2010 were due a defective oxygen sensor. When this happened, the car engine control computer defaults to a 'safe' mix of air and fuel. This makes the engine less powerful and pollutes more. AND it also uses up to 40% more fuel. The gas alone would cost hundreds of dollars a year, for what would have been a $200 oxygen sensor repair, with parts and labor.
For most car owners, the most confusing warning light on the dashboard reads "check engine.” This tiny suggestion might as well read “panic” for some people, as it can light-up for no apparent reason, resulting in an unplanned auto bill just to figure it out. I’m here to help you diagnose, and sometimes even fix, the various problems that can make you “see red.” So, the next time your “check engine light” comes on don’t panic! Don’t call your mechanic. Bookmark this website and let me tell you how to turn off that light.
1. Check for serious problems. If you’re driving, pull over to check for a serious problem needing immediate attention. First, look at the vehicle’s dashboard for signs of low oil pressure or overheating. Next, shut off the engine if either of these issues is present. Some cars feature 2 different "check engine" lights. The YELLOW one indicates a problem that can be fixed later on, but a RED light always means stop immediately.
2. Reduce your speed and engine load. When the "check engine" light is blinking, or you notice serious performance problems (IE. loss of power), reduce your driving speed. Also try to reduce the load on the engine. If you’re towing a trailer, you should stop. Have the car promptly checked by a professional to prevent further damage.
3. Check your Harley gas cap. About 10% of the time the problem is simply, that the gas cap, which is about a $3 repair. In fact, this was THE most common issue over 12 years of data. So, try taking off your gas cap. Then, put it back on...and make sure it's on good and tight. Since the check engine light is connected to the car's emissions system, it comes on when there are fuel vapors leaking from the gas cap. In fact, a loose gas cap is the #1 reason the warning light is activated. NOTE: Sometimes it takes a few trials to reset the system. So, don't assume that was not the problem, just because the light does not go out after checking the gas cap. If the car is still running well, repeat this step a few more times. Letting the Check Engine light stay on due to a defective gas cap will release will decrease fuel economy by 5%.
4. Get the engine’s diagnostic system code. The engine's diagnostic code is also available for free from an automotive pro. Many auto parts stores and franchise oil change and service shops will read the code for you for free (most often it’s a single letter, followed by numbers) ...but then pressure you to feel obligated to hire them for the repair. If you’re like me.
If it’s a major repair, the trouble code produced often refers to multiple problems. It may be best to work with a mechanic to diagnose the full extent of the car’s problem.
5. Oxygen sensors nearly 10% the "check engine" lights illuminated in 2010 were due a defective oxygen sensor. When this happened, the car engine control computer defaults to a 'safe' mix of air and fuel. This makes the engine less powerful and pollutes more. AND it also uses up to 40% more fuel. The gas alone would cost hundreds of dollars a year, for what would have been a $200 oxygen sensor repair, with parts and labor.
There are also
other places you need to check; there is also some bonus tip here, always
address engine problems promptly, so you don’t become conditioned to ignore
your car’s “Check Engine” light. If you can’t diagnose and fix the problem
yourself, take it to a mechanic. Pay a little now. You’ll save a lot later.
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