If you're driving and notice your car's check engine light comes on, would you know what to do? If you answered "no" to this question, you have plenty of company. We'll explain what the check engine light (sometimes abbreviated as CEL) means and which actions to take if you notice it has come on. If you live in Marlton, check engine light service is nearby, at the Burns Buick GMC Service Center.
When your car's check engine light is lit, it's not usually an indication of an emergency. It can be the result of something as minor as a broken gas cap. But there are times when the check engine light means there's a serious issue, which is why it's important to bring your car to the Burns Buick GMC Service Center for check engine light testing in Marlton.
Check Engine Light Service Near Marlton
Flashing Light vs. Steady Light
The check engine light can be either flashing or steady. A flashing light means there's a serious problem that needs immediate attention. When this occurs, it's usually a signal that the engine's ignition system is misfiring, causing unburned fuel to be dumped into the exhaust system. This can damage your car's catalytic converter if not fixed immediately. Replacing the catalytic converter is a major repair, so don't ignore it. If you see a flashing check engine light, pull your vehicle over to a safe place, turn off the ignition, and call for roadside assistance.
If the check engine light is steady, it indicates a problem that needs attention but isn't urgent. Call the Burns Buick GMC Service Center and make an appointment to bring your vehicle in for service. We'll diagnose and correct the problem.
These are some of the most common issues that can trigger a steady check engine light:
Damaged Oxygen Sensor
Your vehicle has an oxygen (O2) sensor that measures the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system. If this sensor fails, the engine will burn more fuel than it needs to. You'll notice a drop in fuel economy. If a bad O2 sensor isn't replaced, it can damage the catalytic converter and the spark plugs.
Defective Mass Airflow Sensor
The mass airflow sensor is designed to measure the engine's air inflow and determine the quantity of fuel necessary to run the engine correctly. If the mass airflow sensor breaks, it can damage the catalytic converter, the O2 sensor and the spark plugs. Your vehicle will experience a decrease in performance and fuel economy.
Faulty Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is an important component that converts carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. Driving with a catalytic converter that's not working properly will cause a drop in power and fuel economy. Your vehicle is likely to fail an emissions test.
Bad Spark Plugs
If your car's spark plugs need to be replaced, it can damage the catalytic converter, ignition coils and O2 sensors. You'll take a hit in performance and fuel economy.
Loose, Broken or Missing Gas Cap
Your vehicle's gas cap creates a seal that prevents the fuel system from releasing gasoline fumes into the air. If the fuel is evaporating, you'll get lower fuel economy. If the cap is loose, it can be tightened. If it's broken or missing, it should be replaced.
If your check engine light comes on, contact the Burns Buick GMC Service Department. Our professional service technicians will diagnose the problem and get your car running properly again.
