If you are of the mindset that you can ignore your vehicle’s check engine light warnings when it turns on, we here at Eurotech Auto Service & Repair want to change your mind. The check engine light is controlled by the engine control unit (ECU), and this is your vehicle’s main computer. Most of the time, the ECU will fix minor problems all by itself. If it cannot correct something, however, it will turn on the check engine light. Let’s talk about the check engine light and why you should take it seriously.
The ECU and Your Check Engine Light
As we just mentioned, the ECU controls your check engine light. In fact, the ECU controls quite a bit in your automobile. For example, let’s assume for the moment that your air and fuel mixture is a little bit off in your combustion chamber. If the problem is minor, the ECU can make adjustments so that the air and fuel mixture is exactly the way it needs to be. If the ECU can’t adjust the mixture enough, it will turn on the check engine light to alert you that there’s a problem going on in the engine.
Why the ECU Turns on the Check Engine Light
This is just one example of why the ECU will turn on the check engine light, and, in this particular case, the air and fuel mixture could be off because you have a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, a problem with the oxygen sensor, or an issue with your fuel delivery such as clogged fuel injectors. Other reasons why your check engine light might turn on include
- Problems with your vehicle’s catalytic converter
- Other issues in the exhaust system
- Trouble in the electrical system or with one of the system sensors
- A malfunctioning engine control unit
- Problems with the spark plugs or the plug wires
- Transmission trouble including low transmission fluid
The bottom line is that the check engine light doesn’t get turned on if there isn’t something wrong. All of these things listed above can create further problems in your engine, including causing serious damage to it. There is another reason why the check engine light comes on that isn’t as drastic as the reasons listed above, and that is that your gas cap is too loose, so check it first when the light comes on.
Don’t ignore your check engine light warnings, however. Eurotech Auto Service & Repair is the best auto service shop in Fort Myers, FL, and we can determine why your check engine light came on and repair the problem quickly. Call us today.