DIY Car Maintenance: What You Can Do and When to Seek Professional Help thumbnail

DIY Car Maintenance: What You Can Do and When to Seek Professional Help

Published Mar 12, 25
1 min read




Avoid Panic: What to Do When Your Check Engine Light Turns On

Understanding the Check Engine Light

The check engine light can be worrying, but it’s there for a reason. This signal means your onboard diagnostics has detected an issue—ranging from a simple gas cap problem to major component failure. At Car-X Tire & Auto, we stress that learning about check engine light causes is the starting point toward a solution.

Typical Reasons

  • Loose or Faulty Gas Cap: Easily resolved by tightening the cap.
  • Oxygen Sensor Malfunction: Impacts emissions and performance.
  • Catalytic Converter Problems: Reduces vehicle performance.
  • Engine Misfires: Caused by faulty spark plugs.

What to Do When the Light Comes On

The check engine light isn’t always an emergency, but it should be addressed promptly. First, check for simple issues like a loose gas cap. If the light remains on, get a professional inspection to determine the problem.

Avoiding Future Issues

Routine maintenance is key to minimizing check engine light issues. Timely inspections can help catch problems early.

We Want to Hear From You

Have you ever seen a check engine light? What did you do next? Let’s discuss solutions below!