Palo Alto, CA – Common Check Engine Light Problems Explained | Auto Repair News

The sight of the check engine light illuminating your dashboard is never a welcome one. As your trusted mechanics in Menlo Park, M & R Auto is here to help diagnose and resolve the issue. We service drivers in Palo Alto, Fremont and beyond. Let’s explore some of the most frequent culprits behind this alert.

Sensor Malfunctions

Modern vehicles depend on various sensors to monitor systems like fuel delivery, emissions levels, and engine temperature. A damaged sensor or faulty connection can cause incorrect readings. This activates the check engine light and requires replacement of the affected sensor.

Loose or Faulty Gas Cap

While it may seem trivial, a loose or cracked gas cap allows fuel vapors to escape. This impacts emissions levels and triggers the check engine light as a result. Replacing the faulty cap typically resolves this problem.

Oxygen Sensor Failure

The oxygen sensor analyzes exhaust gases leaving the engine to regulate the optimal fuel mixture. When this sensor fails, your vehicle burns gas inefficiently. This not only reduces fuel economy but can damage expensive components like the catalytic converter.

Catalytic Converter Issues

The catalytic converter plays a crucial pollution-reducing role. But when it becomes clogged or damaged, diminished performance results in higher emissions. The check engine light switches on to indicate servicing is required. Neglecting this risks total converter failure.

Dirty or Faulty Air and Fuel Filters

Both air and fuel filters must remain clean for your engine to run smoothly. Contaminated filters lower performance and economy while allowing abrasive particles to circulate. Replacing clogged filters when the check engine light appears prevents extensive damage.

Mass Airflow Sensor Failure

The mass airflow or MAF sensor gauges the volume of air feeding the engine. When it malfunctions, this throws off the fuel mixture ratio. Hard starting, stalling, and rough idling are common indicators of MAF troubles that trigger the check engine light.

Engine Lubrication Issues

Finally, low oil levels or a faulty oil pump unable to maintain adequate pressure can activate the check engine light. Without sufficient lubrication, internal components overheat, eventually destroying your engine completely.

As your local auto service experts, M&R Auto has the skills and technology to accurately diagnose check engine light issues. We know how concerning this warning lamp can be. Bring your vehicle to our Menlo Park shop serving Palo Alto and Newark drivers for timely repairs performed right the first time. Get back on the road worry-free by letting us restore peak performance.