Check Engine Light

One of the best things about modern vehicles is that they don't spring any surprises on us. The dashboard lights, in particular, are designed to alert drivers of potential issues with the vehicle.

One such light is the dreaded check engine light or the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). It's the little orange light that looks like an engine. Most vehicles have it on their dashboard, and when it turns on, you can't help but feel a sense of panic.

But before you start imagining the worst-case scenarios, let us assure you that whatever the issue may be, Hi-Tech Auto Specialists can resolve it. Our technicians will get to the root of the problem and eliminate it.

What Is the Function of the Check Engine Light?

The engine warning light, also known as the check engine warning or engine management light, serves as your vehicle's built-in diagnostic system. When it lights up, it's signaling an issue within the engine or related systems.

The issue could range from something minor, like a loose gas cap, to more serious, such as an emissions failure or engine trouble indicator. When this light turns on, it triggers a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that can be read using an OBD-II scanner to pinpoint the problem.

At Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to read the DTC and accurately diagnose underlying issues. The sooner you bring your vehicle to us when the engine fault light turns on, the better it is for the overall health of your vehicle.

Which Vehicle Issues Trigger the Check Engine Light?

Many issues with your vehicle can trigger the engine malfunction indicator. Here are some of them:

Faulty Sensors: If the crankshaft position sensors, mass airflow sensors, or oxygen sensors are malfunctioning, the check engine symbol may light up. These sensors help regulate crucial engine functions, so you must get them repaired or replaced, whatever the case may be.
Gas Cap Issues: A simple but common reason for the check engine light is a gas cap that isn't adequately sealed. The cap keeps fuel vapors from escaping the fuel tank and venting into the atmosphere. If it's loose, damaged, or missing, your vehicle will detect it as a leak and turn on the light.
Misfiring Engine: A vehicle's engine comprises several cylinders, each with a spark plug. The fuel is ignited when the spark plug creates a spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture. If one of these spark plugs is faulty, the vehicle's engine can misfire, resulting in the check engine light turning on.
Emission System Issues: If the emission system is malfunctioning, it can cause an increase in harmful exhaust emissions. A malfunction of the catalytic converter or oxygen sensors may cause this issue.
Transmission Malfunctions: Errors in the transmission system can also result in OBD-II codes, such as a faulty solenoid or a transmission fluid temperature sensor.

At Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, our technicians are well-versed in engine error codes. They can diagnose the problem causing the engine trouble indicator to turn on and provide the necessary repairs or replacements.

What Happens If You Ignore the Engine Diagnostic Light?

Ignoring your vehicle's check engine light warning is a major no-no. What might begin as a minor issue, like a loose gas cap, can escalate into costly damage, such as catalytic converter failure or engine misfires, resulting in additional engine error codes.

If the problem is unaddressed for too long, it can also lower your vehicle's fuel efficiency. The repair costs will also increase. More importantly, safety may be compromised if the issue affects systems like braking or steering.

Unresolved OBD-II codes may also cause your vehicle to fail emissions tests or inspections. When the engine management light turns on, bring your vehicle to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists. We will identify the check engine code and provide a solution before the problem causes more damage or complications.

Address the Check Engine Light at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists

It won't be wrong to call the check engine light the "service engine soon light" because that is precisely why it turns on: to indicate the need for service or repairs.

Hi-Tech Auto Specialists has technicians who are trained to identify and fix engine error codes. We use specialized diagnostic equipment to retrieve the OBD-II codes and pinpoint the exact cause of the issue. You can call us at 708-423-4555 or 708-865-0855 to get guidance from our experts.