Top Reasons Why Your Check Engine Light is On
Why is Your Toyota Check Engine Light On?
Regular vehicle maintenance is an important aspect of owning a new Toyota and can help prevent unwanted stress in the future. If you have ever had your check engine light flicker on while driving, you know what we mean. The dreaded check engine light creates instant stress and panic, followed by the question — why is my check engine light on? Protect your automotive investment and combat this issue before it becomes more significant by understanding the top reasons why your Toyota check engine light is on.
1. A Bad Oxygen Sensor
If your check engine light is on, you may have a defective O2 sensor that needs to be replaced. This engine component measures the amount of unburned oxygen in your exhaust system. If not replaced, this can lead to lower fuel-economy ratings, damaged spark plugs, a damaged catalytic converter and excess fuel burn. If the check engine light goes on in your 2016 Toyota Camry, be sure to check your O2 sensor.
2. A Loose or Damaged Gas Cap
A properly sealed gas cap maintains pressure in your fuel tank and prevents harmful fumes from escaping. If you have a loose or damaged gas cap, not only will your check engine light go on, but you can lose fuel through evaporation. A quick and easy fix, make sure to check your gas cap if your check engine light illuminates.
READ MORE: What Do Toyota Dashboard Warning Lights Mean?
3. A Bad Catalytic Converter
Designed to protect the environment by converting carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide, a malfunctioning catalytic converter is often indicated by your check engine light. Damage to this component is usually due to forgotten maintenance. With a bad catalytic converter, you will be unable to pass an emissions test, you will see a dip in performance and your car may run at a higher temperature. Stop in today at the Downeast Toyota Service Department and we will take a look for you.
4. A Bad Mass Airflow Sensor
Another element you may want to check if your check engine light flickers on is your mass airflow sensor. This element monitors the amount of air flowing into your engine and helps determine how much fuel is needed for your vehicle to run efficiently. Not only will a bad mass airflow sensor hinder performance, it can further damage your spark plugs, oxygen sensor and catalytic converter if not replaced.
5. Bad Spark Plugs or Spark Plug Wires
Vital components of your engine, spark plugs ignite the fuel mixture and spark plug wires transmit that energy throughout your engine. If these key elements are defective, it may be indicated by your check engine light and if not addressed quickly, can lead to reduced power and fuel economy, as well as damage to other components. If the check engine light flickers on in your 2016 Toyota RAV4, be sure to check the condition of spark plugs and spark plug wires.
While we understand not everyone is a mechanic, understanding why your Toyota check engine light is on can relieve a lot of stress. If that stressful little light appears, it is important to remember — do not panic and get your vehicle serviced as soon as possible to prevent lasting damage. For more information, stop in today to see one of our trained service technicians or schedule a service appointment online.