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A “Check Engine” light is a warning light that appears on the dashboard of a vehicle’s instrument panel. It is also known as a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL). When the light is illuminated, it means that the vehicle’s on-board diagnostic (OBD) system has detected a problem with the engine, transmission, or emission control system. The OBD system constantly monitors various sensors and components in the vehicle and will turn on the Check Engine light if it detects an issue that could affect the vehicle’s performance or emissions. This could include problems such as a faulty oxygen sensor, a malfunctioning catalytic converter, or a loose gas cap. There are many different issues that can cause the Check Engine light to illuminate, some of the most common include:

1. Faulty oxygen sensor: This sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and helps regulate the air-fuel mixture. A malfunctioning sensor can cause poor fuel economy and increased emissions.
2. Loose or damaged gas cap: A loose or damaged gas cap can cause fuel to evaporate from the fuel tank, leading to increased emissions and decreased fuel efficiency.
3. Faulty catalytic converter: The catalytic converter helps reduce harmful emissions from the exhaust. A malfunctioning catalytic converter can cause increased emissions and reduced engine performance.
4. Bad spark plugs or wires: Spark plugs and wires help ignite the fuel in the engine. If they are faulty, it can cause poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.
5. Mass airflow sensor malfunction: This sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps regulate the air-fuel mixture. A malfunctioning sensor can cause poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.
6. EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve malfunction: This valve helps reduce emissions by recirculating exhaust gases back into the engine. A malfunctioning EGR valve can cause poor engine performance and increased emissions.

These are just a few of the many issues that can cause the Check Engine light to illuminate. It’s important to have the vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to determine the exact cause of the warning light. It’s important to note that a Check Engine light does not necessarily mean that there is a major problem with the vehicle. However, it is important to have the vehicle checked out as soon as possible by one of our qualified mechanics to determine the cause of the warning light and address any issues before they become more serious and potentially costly to repair.