What does the check engine light mean?

What does the check engine light mean?

The check engine light—is one of the most common and often confusing indicators on your car’s dashboard. But what does it mean? Let's demystify the check engine light, understand its function, explore possible reasons it might appear, learn how to prevent it, and discuss what to do if it comes on.

Dashboard Warning Lights Problem Meanings

On this page of Cartech, you will find the meaning of Malfunction Indicator Lights (MIL) when it appears on your dashboard. Dash lights indicate problem encountered on the car. Several dash warning lights on the dashboard are installed on every car for easy determination of the car problem.

How to Know if the Oil Pump in Your car is Failing

The oil pump plays a critical role in maintaining proper lubrication and ensuring that your engine's moving parts are adequately supplied with oil. If the oil pump starts to fail, it can lead to serious engine problems. Here are some signs that might indicate a failing oil pump:

Low Oil Pressure Warning Light. Many modern vehicles are equipped with an oil pressure warning light on the dashboard. If this light comes on and stays illuminated while you're driving, it's a clear indication of low oil pressure, which could be caused by a failing oil pump.

Engine Noise. A failing oil pump can lead to insufficient oil pressure, causing metal-to-metal contact between engine components. This can result in increased engine noise, often described as ticking, knocking, or tapping sounds. The noise might be most noticeable at startup or during acceleration.

Poor Engine Performance. Insufficient lubrication due to a failing oil pump can lead to decreased engine performance. You might notice reduced power, sluggish acceleration, or difficulty maintaining consistent speed.

Oil Warning Light. Some vehicles have a separate oil warning light that indicates low oil level. However, this could also be related to oil pump failure, as the pump's inability to circulate oil might lead to decreased oil pressure and subsequent oil consumption.

Overheating. If the oil pump is failing and not providing adequate lubrication, it can lead to increased friction and heat within the engine. This can contribute to engine overheating.

Drop in Oil Pressure Gauge Reading. If your vehicle is equipped with an oil pressure gauge, you might notice a sudden drop in the pressure reading on the gauge. This can be an early indication of oil pump problems.

Consistent Check Engine Light. A failing oil pump and low oil pressure can trigger the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system, causing the check engine light to illuminate. Be sure to retrieve any stored error codes using a diagnostic scanner.

If you observe any of these signs, it's crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent potential engine damage. Continuing to drive with a failing oil pump can lead to serious consequences, including engine seizure.

If you suspect that your oil pump is failing, it's recommended to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic. They can perform diagnostic tests to determine the exact cause of the issue and recommend appropriate repairs. Regular maintenance and oil changes can also help prevent oil pump problems by ensuring a clean and well-lubricated engine.

How to Test if the Oil pump is Failing

Testing the oil pump's functionality usually requires specialized equipment and expertise. However, there are some basic steps you can take to help diagnose potential issues with the oil pump. Keep in mind that if you suspect your oil pump is failing, it's best to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis. Here's what you can do:

1. Check the Oil Pressure Gauge. Start your car and let it idle. Observe the oil pressure gauge on your dashboard. If the gauge indicates very low or zero oil pressure, it could be a sign of a failing oil pump. However, keep in mind that a faulty oil pressure sensor could also cause inaccurate readings.

2. Use a Manual Oil Pressure Gauge. If you're comfortable working under the hood and have the necessary tools, you can temporarily install a manual oil pressure gauge to get an accurate reading. This involves disconnecting the oil pressure sending unit and attaching the manual gauge. Start the engine and compare the readings from the manual gauge to the dashboard gauge. If there's a significant difference or consistently low pressure, it could indicate an oil pump problem.

3. Inspect for Leaks. Check for any oil leaks around the oil pump and oil filter housing. Leaks could result from a failing pump or worn seals.

4. Check for Engine Noise. Listen for any unusual noises coming from the engine, such as knocking, tapping, or rattling. These noises could be indicative of insufficient lubrication due to oil pump issues.

5. Perform an Oil Pressure Test. This test requires specialized equipment and is best done by a professional mechanic. It involves connecting a pressure gauge to the engine's oil pressure port to measure the actual oil pressure while the engine is running at different RPMs. A significant drop in pressure between idle and higher RPMs could suggest an oil pump problem.

6. Check for Contaminated Oil. Inspect the engine oil on the dipstick. If you notice metallic particles, sludge, or a thick consistency, it could indicate oil circulation problems caused by a failing oil pump.

7. Inspect the Oil Filter. Remove the oil filter and cut it open to inspect for debris or metal shavings. These could be signs of insufficient oil flow and potential pump failure.

Remember, diagnosing oil pump issues can be complex and requires expertise. If you suspect your oil pump is failing, it's advisable to consult a professional mechanic. They have the necessary tools and knowledge to perform accurate diagnostic tests and recommend appropriate repairs. Ignoring oil pump problems can lead to severe engine damage, so it's important to address the issue promptly.

Is Your Car Shaking When Idle? Here's What You Need to Know

Car shakes when idle, the vibration is so extreme that it causes the entire car to shakes even when the car does not move and stay idle.

Why car shakes at idle?

If car shakes when idle the reason is that one of the cylinders is misfiring. For the normal engine to run smoothly the engine cylinder must fire properly, the firing of each cylinder must be in the correct sequence. If one of the cylinders is not firing according to the normal firing order in sequence the engine will be out of balance which will result to engine extreme vibration that is enough to cause the entire car shaking at idle.

But that is not the real problem here, the real problem is why the cylinder misfiring. The reasons for the engine cylinder to misfire are bad spark plugs, bad spark plug wires or a worn distributor cap. Any of the above reasons can cause the firing of the air/fuel mixtures inside the cylinder. Another possibility is that the valves are burned. If the valve is burned the compression of the cylinder will become abnormal and as a results engine misfiring occurs.

Possible cause of car shaking at idle
Engine misfiring on one of the cylinder

What to do when there is excessive car shakes at idle?

Replace Spark Plug

To begin fixing the problem first is to replace the spark plug and the spark plugs wires usually this will fix the problem of engine misfiring.

Replace Distributor Cap

If after the replacement the car still shakes when idle the next thing to replace is the distributor cap. You can do the work by yourself by checking on the service manual that covers your car model or you may bring the car to the shop for tune-up.

If after then cap was replaced and the problem still occurs then the problem is a burned valve, in this case, confirm with the shop mechanic the problem and repair if necessary.

Suggested article:
What causes my steering wheel to shake?

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What Would Cause an Engine to Lose Power?

What would cause an engine to lose power? Well, several reasons would cause an engine to lose power like the fault on the ignition system, fuel system, or clogged catalytic converter.

Possible cause of an engine to lose power

Clogged catalytic converter

If the top speed of your car is significantly 15 miles less than it was before, the problem is a clogged catalytic converter.

The purpose of the catalytic converter to clean the unburned gasses that pass through in the exhaust system, if the catalytic converter is clogged the exhaust gasses will not freely pass and will be restricted through the catalytic converter, now the faster the car the harder it is for the unburned gasses to get past the catalytic converter all the way to the tailpipe and back pressure to the engine happens that causes the engine to lose power. The harder the accelerator pedal is pressed the more back pressure in the engine, therefore, the car will not reach the top speed.

Bad spark plug or spark plug wires

If the engine runs roughly especially during idle, then the problem is related to the fuel system specifically a bad spark plug or spark plug wires. If the spark plug or spark plug wires are bad there will be no spark in the combustion chamber and the engine will misfire.

Clogged fuel injector

If the above condition is not met then the possible problem is the fuel system specifically the injector. The purpose of the fuel injector is to provide the engine enough amount of fuel, if the engine does not have enough fuel it will lack power. If the fuel injector is clogged or partially clogged not enough fuel will go inside the engine and the engine will be starved of fuel.

Engine weak compression

Another cause of the engine's lack of power is when the engine is weak on compression, usually, this is because the engine valves or rings are worn out. To check if the engine has weak compression the engine must be subjected to a compression test.

What to do?

Bring the car to the repair shop depending on your initial diagnosis asks the mechanic to check the car if the problem is a clogged catalytic converter then replace it with the new one. If the problem is the spark plug or spark plug wire, replacing these parts will improve the engine performance.

If the problem is the clogged fuel injectors avoid using low octane gasoline, first is to try to fill your car with super gasoline usually 98 octanes and above because super gasoline has additives that automatically clean residue off the injectors. After filling with super gasoline a few times you will notice an improved power from the engine. If there is no improvement then that’s the time to bring the car to the repair shop and asks the mechanic to clean the injectors.

Can You Put 91 Octane Gasoline In Any Car?
Not all cars can use 91 octane gasoline. Most of the cars produced for the market today use high-octane gasoline. If you are not sure about what gasoline octane rating to use for your car, check out your car user manual it indicates what type of fuel to be used for your car.

Read more: Can You Put 91 Octane Gasoline In Any Car?

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Check Engine Light is Telling You About Misfires

Have you ever been driving around and suddenly your check engine light comes on? It's a frustrating experience, especially if you aren't sure what's causing it. But did you know that your check engine light could be telling you about something called a misfire? Misfires are a common problem that can be caused by a variety of issues, from faulty spark plugs to low fuel pressure. They can cause your engine to run poorly, decrease your fuel efficiency, and even damage your catalytic converter. But don't worry, understanding what your check engine light is telling you about misfires can help you diagnose and fix the problem quickly. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what causes misfires, how to diagnose them, and what you can do to fix them. So, if you're ready to learn more about this common engine problem, let's get started!

Understanding Engine Misfires

A misfire occurs when one or more cylinders in your engine fail to ignite properly. This can cause your engine to run rough, produce less power, and emit more pollutants. Misfires can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty spark plugs, bad ignition coils, clogged fuel injectors, low fuel pressure, and more.

When an engine misfires, it sends a signal to your car's onboard computer, which will then turn on your check engine light. This light is your car's way of telling you that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. If you ignore this warning, you risk causing further damage to your engine and potentially expensive repairs down the road.

Causes of Engine Misfires

As previously mentioned, there are several factors that can cause an engine misfire. One of the most common causes is faulty spark plugs. Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel in your engine's cylinders, and if they aren't working properly, your engine won't be able to operate efficiently. Over time, spark plugs can become worn or dirty, which can lead to misfires.

Another common cause of misfires is a bad ignition coil. The ignition coil is responsible for sending an electrical signal to your spark plugs, and if it fails, your engine won't be able to ignite the fuel in your cylinders. Clogged fuel injectors, low fuel pressure, and a faulty fuel pump can also cause misfires by preventing the proper amount of fuel from reaching your engine's cylinders.

Symptoms of Engine Misfires

If your engine is misfiring, you may notice several symptoms, including:

- Rough idling: Your engine may feel like it's shaking or vibrating when you're stopped at a red light or stop sign.

- Decreased power: You may notice that your car doesn't accelerate as quickly as it used to, or that it struggles to climb hills.

- Poor fuel economy: Misfires can cause your engine to burn more fuel than it needs to, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency.

- Check engine light: Your check engine light will turn on if your engine is misfiring, which is your car's way of telling you that something is wrong.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to have your car inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible.

What the Check Engine Light is Telling You About Misfires

When your check engine light turns on, it's important to take it seriously. Your car's onboard computer has detected a problem with your engine, and it's trying to tell you that something needs to be fixed. In the case of misfires, your check engine light is telling you that one or more cylinders in your engine are failing to ignite properly. By identifying the problem early, you can prevent further damage to your engine and potentially save yourself from expensive repairs down the road.

Diagnosing Engine Misfires

Diagnosing an engine misfire can be tricky, as there are several factors that can cause the problem. One of the first things your mechanic will do is use a diagnostic tool to read the codes stored in your car's onboard computer. These codes can provide valuable information about what's causing the misfire.

Your mechanic may also perform a visual inspection of your engine, checking for things like worn or damaged spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, and more. They may also perform a compression test to determine if there are any issues with your engine's cylinders.

Fixing Engine Misfires

Once your mechanic has identified the cause of the misfire, they can begin the process of fixing the problem. In many cases, replacing faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can solve the problem. Your mechanic may also clean or replace clogged fuel injectors, replace a faulty fuel pump, or perform other repairs as needed.

It's important to note that fixing an engine misfire can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially if the problem is caused by something more serious, like a damaged catalytic converter. If you're not comfortable working on your car's engine, it's best to leave the repairs to a professional mechanic.

Preventing Engine Misfires

There are several things you can do to help prevent engine misfires from occurring in the first place. Regular maintenance is key, so be sure to have your car's spark plugs, ignition coils, and fuel injectors inspected and replaced as needed. It's also important to keep up with oil changes and other routine maintenance tasks to ensure that your engine is running smoothly.

If you notice any symptoms of an engine misfire, like rough idling or decreased power, don't hesitate to have your car inspected by a mechanic. Addressing the problem early can help prevent further damage to your engine and potentially save you money on repairs.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you're not comfortable working on your car's engine, it's best to leave the repairs to a professional mechanic. Engine misfires can be caused by a variety of factors, and fixing the problem can be a complex and time-consuming process. A skilled mechanic will have the tools and expertise needed to diagnose and repair the problem quickly and efficiently.

Conclusion

An engine misfire is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. If you notice symptoms like rough idling, decreased power, or poor fuel economy, it's important to have your car inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. By understanding what your check engine light is telling you about misfires, you can diagnose and fix the problem quickly, potentially saving yourself from expensive repairs down the road. With regular maintenance and prompt attention to any symptoms of engine misfires, you can keep your car running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

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What Does It Mean When Your Check Engine Light is On?

Check Engine Light on Meaning

The check engine light, also known as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), is a warning light on the dashboard of a car that illuminates when the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system detects a problem. The specific meaning of the check engine light can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, but generally, it indicates an issue with the engine or emissions system.

When the check engine light comes on, it means that the onboard computer system, also known as the engine control unit (ECU), has detected an error or fault in one of the vehicle's systems. This could include problems with the engine, transmission, ignition, fuel system, emissions control system, or sensors.

The check engine light serves as a general warning and doesn't provide specific details about the problem. To diagnose the issue accurately, a mechanic or auto repair shop would typically use a diagnostic tool to retrieve the error codes stored in the car's computer system. These codes provide clues about the specific system or component that is experiencing the problem.

It's important to note that the check engine light can indicate both minor and more serious issues. Some common causes for the light to come on include a loose gas cap, faulty oxygen sensor, catalytic converter problems, spark plug issues, or a malfunctioning sensor. However, it could also indicate more significant problems such as engine misfire, transmission issues, or a malfunctioning electronic component.

When the check engine light is on, it's advisable to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring the check engine light can potentially lead to further damage to the vehicle and may result in more costly repairs down the line.

Check Engine Light Logo

The check engine light logo typically appears as a small symbol or icon on the dashboard of a vehicle. It can vary slightly in design depending on the car manufacturer, but it is commonly represented as an outline of an engine or an engine block. The symbol may be accompanied by the words "Check Engine" or "Service Engine Soon" to provide further clarification.

The check engine light logo serves as a warning indicator, alerting the driver that there is a potential issue with the vehicle's engine or emissions system. When the check engine light illuminates, it is important to take notice and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address the underlying problem.

Reasons Check Engine Light Comes On

The check engine light can come on for various reasons, indicating a potential issue with your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Here are some common reasons why the check engine light may illuminate:

1. Loose or faulty gas cap:

A loose, damaged, or missing gas cap can cause the check engine light to come on. It is a relatively simple issue to fix and can be resolved by ensuring the gas cap is securely tightened or replaced.

2. Oxygen sensor malfunction:

The oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust system to help regulate fuel consumption. A malfunctioning oxygen sensor can affect fuel efficiency and emissions, triggering the check engine light.

3. Faulty catalytic converter:

The catalytic converter is responsible for reducing harmful emissions. If it becomes damaged or fails, it can trigger the check engine light. A malfunctioning catalytic converter should be addressed promptly to prevent further engine damage.

4. Malfunctioning mass airflow sensor (MAF):

The MAF sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps determine the appropriate fuel-to-air mixture. A faulty MAF sensor can cause issues with engine performance and trigger the check engine light.

5. Problems with the spark plugs or ignition system:

Worn-out spark plugs or ignition coils can lead to misfires or engine performance issues, resulting in the check engine light coming on.

6. Emissions control system issues:

Problems with components such as the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve, or other emissions-related components can cause the check engine light to illuminate.

7. Transmission issues:

Certain transmission problems, such as slipping gears or faulty sensors, can trigger the check engine light. This indicates that there may be an issue with the transmission system that requires attention.

8. Sensor malfunctions:

Various sensors in the engine or emissions system, including temperature sensors, pressure sensors, or throttle position sensors, can malfunction and cause the check engine light to turn on.

These are just a few common reasons why the check engine light may come on. It's important to note that the specific cause can vary depending on the make, model, and year of your vehicle. When the check engine light is illuminated, it is recommended to have your vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to identify and resolve the underlying issue. They can use diagnostic tools to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer system, providing more specific information about the problem.

Check Engine Light is On but Car Runs Fine

If your check engine light is on but your car is running fine, it's still important to take the issue seriously. While the car may be running normally at the moment, the check engine light is an indicator that there is a problem with the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system.

The check engine light can be triggered by a wide range of issues, ranging from minor to potentially more serious problems. It could be something as simple as a loose gas cap or a faulty sensor, or it could indicate a more significant issue with the engine or emissions system.

To determine the cause of the check engine light, it's best to have your car diagnosed by a qualified mechanic or take it to an auto repair shop. They can use a diagnostic tool to read the error codes stored in the car's computer system and provide a more accurate assessment of the problem.

Even if the car appears to be running fine, ignoring the check engine light can potentially lead to more significant issues down the road. Additionally, some local regulations may require that the check engine light be addressed before a vehicle can pass an emissions test or inspection.

Therefore, it's advisable to have the issue investigated as soon as possible to prevent any potential problems from escalating and to ensure your car continues to operate smoothly.

Check Engine Light is On After Oil Change

If the check engine light comes on after an oil change, it can be concerning. While it's not directly related to the oil change itself, there could be a few reasons why the check engine light has illuminated.

1. Loose or damaged sensor:

During the oil change, it's possible that a sensor may have been accidentally disconnected, damaged, or not properly reconnected. This can trigger the check engine light. It's recommended to check the areas around the oil filter, oil pan, and other components that were accessed during the oil change to ensure everything is secure.

2. Faulty oil pressure sensor:

The oil pressure sensor measures the oil pressure in the engine. If the sensor is faulty or has been damaged during the oil change, it can cause the check engine light to turn on. A mechanic should be able to diagnose and replace the sensor if needed.

3. Oil leak or spill:

Sometimes, during an oil change, some oil may spill or leak onto other engine components. If oil comes into contact with electrical connectors or sensors, it can cause them to malfunction and trigger the check engine light. Inspecting the engine for any signs of oil leaks or spills and cleaning any affected areas can help resolve the issue.

4. Coincidental issue:

It's also possible that the check engine light coming on after an oil change is coincidental and unrelated to the service. Other issues with the vehicle's systems or components may have arisen around the same time, leading to the check engine light activation. A diagnostic scan should be performed to identify the specific error code(s) and pinpoint the cause.

In any case, it's recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic. They can use a diagnostic tool to retrieve the error codes stored in the car's computer system and perform a thorough inspection to determine the exact cause of the check engine light. Remember, it's essential to address the issue promptly to prevent potential damage or further complications.

Does check engine light come on for oil change

No, the check engine light does not typically come on simply because of an oil change. An oil change is a routine maintenance procedure that should not trigger the check engine light.

The check engine light is designed to indicate a problem with the vehicle's engine or emissions system. However, during an oil change, it is possible for other issues to be detected or inadvertently caused, which could trigger the check engine light. For example, if a sensor is accidentally disconnected or damaged during the oil change, it could cause the check engine light to come on.

If the check engine light does come on after an oil change, it is advisable to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine the cause of the light and address any underlying issues.

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How to Prevent Loss of Engine Power While Driving

Experiencing an overall loss of power in a low-mileage vehicle can be a frustrating and concerning issue. In most cases, such a power loss points to a fault in either the ignition system or the fuel system. This article aims to provide guidance in diagnosing and resolving these common problems. By asking a series of questions and considering possible causes, vehicle owners can gain insight into the issues at hand and take appropriate action.