Are you suddenly seeing the dreaded check engine light glowing on your car’s dashboard? It is one of those moments that can give you a sinking feeling. That little blinking light that we often shake our heads at and wish would disappear is actually your car’s way of telling you, “There’s something wrong with me, and you need to take care of it.”

The check engine light is an important part of your car’s onboard diagnostic system (OBD). This system monitors your engine and its parts and checks to see that everything is okay. When the OBD sees a problem, the check engine light turns on to notify you of the problem’s existence. The warning light becomes either constant or flashing depending on the problem’s severity. When the check engine light stays solid, your car signals a moderate concern, but a blinking light indicates an urgent situation that demands immediate action.

Common Reasons for the Check Engine Light

• Loose or Faulty Gas Cap: A loose or damaged gas cap is one of the easiest causes of check light illumination. If this cap is not sealing well, fuel vapors tend to leak, causing the light to turn on.
• Oxygen Sensor Problems: The oxygen sensor determines the amount of unburned oxygen in your car exhaust emissions. If it fails, your car will be less efficient and possibly burn more fuel than it should, increasing emissions.
• Catalytic Converter Issues: Your catalytic converter is one of the many devices that help minimize toxic emissions. If it is not functioning optimally, your car may perform poorly, and you may fail an emissions test.
• Faulty Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils: Everyone knows spark plugs and ignition coils are important for starting your car and maintaining its performance. If they are exhausted or have issues, your engine may start knocking, which will lead to the light coming on when the problem is detected by the car’s computer.
• Mass Airflow Sensor Problems: Your engine uses the MAF sensor to measure air intake volume to determine the amount of fuel needed. If it is not functioning properly, your car’s fuel economy may decline.
• Battery or Charging Issues: Sometimes, a low or dead battery is enough to trigger the check light on the dashboard. At other times, charging issues, such as a failed alternator or other electrical problems, can cause the warning light to come on.

What Should You Do When the Light Comes On?

• Check for Obvious Issues: Begin with easy matters, such as checking that the cap of the gas has been screwed back properly. A loose gas cap is perhaps one of the most typical and easiest causes of a check engine light.
• Observe Your Car’s Behavior: Listen to your car and notice its performance. Is it moving normally, or do you feel something is wrong, such as losing power, making strange noises, or vibrating? A blinking light signals a severe problem with your vehicle, so pull over right away and call for help.
• Get a Diagnostic Test: The only way to determine what may be causing the light is to take your car for an onboard diagnostic check. A skilled mechanic uses the trouble codes to identify the specific problem in your vehicle.

Swedish Auto Service Is Here To Help You

At Swedish Auto Service, we know how uncomfortable it may be for a driver to notice the check engine light on, and this is why we are happy to serve drivers in Austin, TX, and vicinity such as Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, and so on. Since our establishment in 1993, our workshop has offered reliable and professional service, including consulting and repairing problems that cause the check light to come on. Our highly skilled mechanics employ the most modern equipment to ensure that we diagnose your car’s issue.

Whether it is a slightly loose gas cap or a complicated engine problem, we will ensure you receive the repairs you require to have your car up and running again safely. We also strongly embrace preventive care. Call us now or come to our workshop, and we will give your car the professional attention and customer service it deserves.