Saint Maries Check Engine Light
Would you know what to do if you're driving and your car's check engine light (CEL) suddenly came on? You'd be surprised to learn how many people answer no to that question. We'll explain the different reasons your car, truck, SUV or van's check engine light might come on and what to do if it happens. If you live in Saint Maries, check engine light service is quick and easy when you visit the Knudtsen Chevrolet Service Center in Post Falls, Idaho.
The check engine light usually doesn't indicate an emergency. It might occur due to something as small as a broken gas cap. But the check engine light can be a warning of a serious problem. If you're driving and notice your check engine light has come on, take it to Knudtsen Chevrolet for CEL diagnosis & testing near Saint Maries.
Flashing Check Engine Light
A check engine light can be flashing or steady. A flashing light is alerting you to a serious problem that needs immediate attention. Most likely, it means the ignition system is misfiring. When this happens, unburned fuel is dumped directly into the exhaust system. This can damage the catalytic converter, resulting in an expensive repair. If your car's check engine light comes on and it's flashing, pull over, shut the car off, and call for roadside assistance.
Steady Check Engine Light
A steady check engine light is alerting you to a problem that isn't urgent but needs attention. Call the Knudtsen Chevrolet Service Center and schedule a service visit. These are some of the most common issues that can trigger a steady check engine light:
- Faulty Oxygen Sensor: Your car's oxygen (O2) sensor measures the exhaust system's unburned oxygen. If you don't replace a bad O2 sensor, the engine will burn extra fuel. You'll notice a loss of fuel efficiency. A faulty O2 sensor can damage the spark plugs and the catalytic converter.
- Broken Mass Airflow Sensor: The mass airflow sensor measures the engine's air inflow and controls the amount of fuel necessary to run the engine properly. If this part malfunctions and isn't replaced, it can damage the catalytic converter, spark plugs and O2 sensor. You'll notice a drop in fuel economy and reduced performance.
- Malfunctioning Catalytic Converter: Your vehicle's catalytic converter converts carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. If the catalytic converter needs replacement, your car may fail an emissions test. Performance and fuel economy will suffer.
- Bad Spark Plugs: Faulty spark plugs and wires can damage the catalytic converter, O2 sensors and ignition coils. You'll notice a drop in performance and fuel economy.
- Loose, Damaged or Missing Gas Cap: The gas cap creates a seal that keeps gasoline fumes from escaping from the fuel system. If you don't replace a damaged or missing gas cap, the gasoline will evaporate, and you'll notice a hit in fuel economy.
If your engine light comes on, don't ignore it. Contact the Knudtsen Chevrolet Service Department right away. Our certified technicians will diagnose the problem and fix any issues we discover.
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