As the car ages, many drivers who have kept their cars for very long know that eventually the “Service Engine Soon” light will illuminate on the instrument panel, warning of potential engine problems. What should you do? Although it is usually okay to drive for a while with that light on, it is wiser to head to your auto shop and ask for a diagnostic test. This will enable your mechanic to check out what is happening under the hood and take care of problems while they are small and before turning into a major engine repair.
What should you do when the “Service Engine Soon” light comes on? First of all, loosen, then retighten the gas cap. Fuel vapors could be leaking out and throwing off the whole fuel system. However, if the light doesn’t go off after driving for several miles, then it is time to head to your auto shop and ask for a diagnostic test. Your mechanic will check out several other common issues that can cause that little warning light to illuminate, including:
- Oxygen Sensor – The oxygen sensor monitors the unburned oxygen from the exhaust and how much fuel is burned. A bad sensor cannot send the right data to the car’s computer.
- Catalytic Convertor – The catalytic convertor reduces exhaust gases by converting carbon monoxide and other harmful materials into harmless emissions. If it should fail, the number of toxic fumes emitted into the atmosphere will increase.
- Mass Airflow Sensor – This sensor tells the car's computer to add the proper amount of fuel based on the air coming through to the engine. A clogged sensor will cause engine problems.
- Spark Plugs and Wires – The spark plug seals the combustion chamber, provides a gap for a spark to jump across, and initiates combustion in your engine. When these go bad you may start to experience starting problems.
If any of the above problems exist, you will start to notice a decrease in fuel efficiency, loss of power, stalling or rough idling, and an increase in emissions.
A word of advice: How can you prevent a major engine repair? Take care of the preventative vehicle maintenance items at the appropriate intervals as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Need to know more about what happens when the “Service Engine Soon” light comes on? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for information about engine repair and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.
As the car ages, many drivers who have kept their cars for very long know that eventually the “Service Engine Soon” light will illuminate on the instrument panel, warning of potential engine problems. What should you do? Although it is usually okay to drive for a while with that light on, it is wiser to head to your auto shop and ask for a diagnostic test. This will enable your mechanic to check out what is happening under the hood and take care of problems while they are small and before turning into a major engine repair.
What should you do when the “Service Engine Soon” light comes on? First of all, loosen, then retighten the gas cap. Fuel vapors could be leaking out and throwing off the whole fuel system. However, if the light doesn’t go off after driving for several miles, then it is time to head to your auto shop and ask for a diagnostic test. Your mechanic will check out several other common issues that can cause that little warning light to illuminate, including:
- Oxygen Sensor – The oxygen sensor monitors the unburned oxygen from the exhaust and how much fuel is burned. A bad sensor cannot send the right data to the car’s computer.
- Catalytic Convertor – The catalytic convertor reduces exhaust gases by converting carbon monoxide and other harmful materials into harmless emissions. If it should fail, the number of toxic fumes emitted into the atmosphere will increase.
- Mass Airflow Sensor – This sensor tells the car's computer to add the proper amount of fuel based on the air coming through to the engine. A clogged sensor will cause engine problems.
- Spark Plugs and Wires – The spark plug seals the combustion chamber, provides a gap for a spark to jump across, and initiates combustion in your engine. When these go bad you may start to experience starting problems.
If any of the above problems exist, you will start to notice a decrease in fuel efficiency, loss of power, stalling or rough idling, and an increase in emissions.
A word of advice: How can you prevent a major engine repair? Take care of the preventative vehicle maintenance items at the appropriate intervals as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Need to know more about what happens when the “Service Engine Soon” light comes on? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for information about engine repair and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.
