1. Bad Oxygen Sensor
Oxygen sensors monitor the fuel cars burn as well as the unburned oxygen from the exhaust. If the oxygen sensor goes bad, it fails to provide an accurate data to your car’s On-Board Diagnostics System or OBD, which then reports the issue through a code and check engine light. If you don't replace a bad oxygen sensor on time, it may bust the catalytic convertor of the car and increase your expenses. To replace it, all you need to do is unclip the old sensor, and replace it with the new one.
2. Problem with the Catalytic Convertor
The chief role of a catalytic convertor is to reduce the exhaust gases, which it does by converting carbon monoxide and other similar harmful gases into harmless compounds. Failure in this part of your car primarily happens due to a broken oxygen sensor or bad spark plugs. While regular maintenance keeps the problem of a failed catalytic convertor at bay, immediately replacing a bad catalytic converter is essential to improve the car’s gas mileage as well as reduce your carbon footprints.
Note: Replacing a catalytic convertor requires precision and should be left at the hands of a professional technician unless you have the required experience.
3. Bad Spark Plug Wires
Spark plugs work to initiate combustion in the engine. Their job is to prevent any electricity from escaping out, which won’t be the case if they wear out. Overtime, spark plugs develop tiny cracks, causing electricity to escape, and the engine to misfire. This, naturally, compels the OBD system of your car to switch on the check engine light. To solve the issue, check the spark plugs for tiny cracks or holes, and replace them if you notice any such thing.
4. Loose or Faulty gas cap
One of the silliest reasons owners see a check engine light on their dashboard is due to a loose or faulty gas cap. When your car isn’t jerking or giving some unusual signs, yet it shows that orange light on the dashboard candle, remember to get off and ensure that the car’s gas cap is tight enough. Many cars, these days, come with systems that track the amount of pressure building within the car’s fuel tank. Consequently, if the cap has cracks or is loose, it may give way to the check light. The solution, replace the cap if you find it bad.
Last Words
A salvage vehicle option provides you numerous options in terms of getting a second-hand auto at an economical price. To optimize your investment; however, it is essential to inspect the car properly and also check its history, if possible. Be it finding more issues that lead to a check engine light to display on your car's dashboard or any other elements, having a comprehensive understanding of the car is important to improve your auto's gas mileage and minimize your carbon footprint. After all, prevention is better than cure.