My Check Engine Light is On...Is It Serious?

October 29, 2020

You're driving your regular route to work and look at your vehicle's dashboard only to see that the dreaded check engine light has turned on. You're secretly hoping that it is an error and that it will turn back off in a few minutes. However, it stays on throughout the day and doesn't seem to be going anywhere.


We know this dreaded feeling and the uncertainty that comes along with figuring out a check engine light. You don't know exactly what is wrong with your vehicle, or how serious it could be. You also may not know if you can continue driving. Let's look at some of the potential causes for the check engine light and what you should do as soon as you see it turn on. 


There are many different reasons why your check engine light may come on - some of the problems can be minor and others can be more extensive. Even if you are scared of the possible reason why the light is on, it is critical to bring your vehicle into Stang Auto Tech as soon as you notice it turn on. The quicker that we are able to identify the issue and repair it, the less damage that will be done, and the less money you'll find yourself spending on repairs. 


Here are some of the most common issues that can cause the check engine light to turn on:


  • Faulty oxygen sensor
  • Loose or damaged gas cap
  • Bad catalytic converter
  • Faulty mass airflow sensor
  • Bad spark plugs


These are some of the typical reasons for a check engine light that we see here at our shop. However, in order to correctly identify the issue, the professionals at our shop will run computer diagnostics on your vehicle's system to pull the error code. The error code will direct us in the area of the issue and allow us to determine what services or repairs are needed to restore your vehicle. 


Now, if you're wondering whether or not the check engine light is serious, the answer is it could be, or it could not be. The only want to really know is to bring your vehicle into our shop at your earliest convenience for an inspection. We will perform the tests necessary to fix the problem and get you back on the road in no time!

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