Reasons Your Check Engine Light May Be On

The check engine light; a light that many people will sometimes drive around with it on without checking into it because of the assumption that the light is on by mistake.  Maybe a loose wire or something.  It could also mean that something is wrong with the engine.  Shocker, I know.  The problem is in that the light doesn’t do a good job narrowing down what could be the issue.  Is it minor and easily fixed, or is the engine is serious trouble and needs to be service immediately?  Here is some of the top reasons why that check engine light may have come on in your vehicle.

• Loose Fuel Cap:

It is weird to think that something like a loose fuel cap can cause the light to turn on, but there is a reason.  When the cap is loose, or broken, it causes fuel vapors to leak out of the car.  If your vehicle doesn’t seem to be having any issues when the light goes on, check here first.  If the cap is broken, replace it.

• Spark Plugs:

If this is causing the problem you’ll notice a slight jolt when you accelerate.  This usually means that the plugs are failing.  If this occurs, it is recommended to get your car into service as soon as possible so the plugs can be replaced.

• Catalytic Converter:

This one doesn’t happen often if the car is properly maintained, but when it does, it can really impact your vehicle.  Go too long without replacing this and your vehicle is going to eventually stop running.  It also has a major impact on your gas mileage.  This makes it essential that it gets replaced quickly.

There is plenty of reasons the light may have come on that we didn’t list.  Should this happen, don’t delay on getting your vehicle checked out.  The longer you wait, the more damage you could be causing to your car.  If you need to schedule a service appointment, click here to schedule it online.  Otherwise, contact us at (888) 241-1593.  Be sure to like Bayside Chrysler Jeep Dodge on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more auto news and advice.

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