Cadillac Engine Light Service Near Riverside

Reasons for the Check Engine Light

Sometimes the check engine light itself can help you understand what is going on. For example, a check engine light flashing can indicate a serious problem with your Ignition System or Emissions System. If the light is staying on constantly or flashing, that is your first indication that you need to have your vehicle checked out. Our service team will perform diagnostic testing and can troubleshoot the problem early on, and that may save it from becoming an expensive repair later. You won’t know for sure why the light is on until the diagnostic is performed. Once it is completed, we can get to work to make the repairs so we can get you back on the road safely. Generally, there are eight primary reasons that your light is on:

• Oxygen Sensor failure: Your exhaust system has several oxygen sensors that monitor the amount of oxygen present in the air-to-fuel ratio. These sensors transmit data to the computer in your vehicle so that it can create an ideal air to fuel mixture. Without this information from the sensors, performance will decrease. In some cases, simply fixing the oxygen sensor can improve performance by up to 40%.
• Gas cap loose or damaged: A lesser problem but nonetheless relevant, a problem with the gas cap can allow fuel vapor to escape and the EVAP system may not function precisely.
• Bad spark plugs: These tiny little powerhouses are what allow your vehicle to function; electricity from the electrical system infiltrates these plugs, which produce a spark on the electrode end. This electrode is seated in the combustion chamber where fuel and air mix. When the electrodes spark, they cause tiny micro-explosions in the combustion chamber so that fuel is burned. This process allows your vehicle’s engine to run. What is left over from this chemical reaction is collected by the exhaust system that is then ejected from your vehicle via your exhaust system.
• Battery Issue: If the battery is weak or faulty, electricity from the battery cannot power the essential electrical components and systems in your vehicle.
• Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor: This essential component measures airflow and sends information to the engine’s computer to help regulate performance. If the sensor is removed and cleaned or replaced outright, your vehicle’s performance may improve.
• EGR Valve: The Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve reduces emissions from your vehicle by recirculating metered quantities of exhaust gas into the air intake system.
• Catalytic Converter: This part cuts down on air pollution by removing pollutants from exhaust as it transforms harmful compounds into less harmful compounds like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides.
• Vacuum Leak: Although it is not hazardous, it can cause a loss of power and reduction in fuel efficiency.

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