Ford Check Engine Light Guide
Easily the most recognizable and infamous of all the dashboard warning lights, the dreaded check engine light is one of the most common causes for concern among drivers worrying about the condition and performance of their vehicle. You’re minding your own business when you notice that familiar dark orange symbol appears on your dashboard, causing all sorts of worries and concerns. Instead of panicking, take a deep breath and remember that a check engine light doesn’t always mean that there’s a major problem! In fact, many of the most common causes of a check engine light are minor or simple fixes. Germain Ford of Beavercreek has created this helpful guide to help alleviate the concerns of drivers dealing with a check engine light. You’ll discover all the common causes of a check engine light along with how to fix them.
What is a Check Engine Light?
Easily the most well-known of all the dashboard warning lights you may encounter, the check engine light is an engine-shaped symbol (usually dark amber, yellow, or orange in color) that will illuminate as an alert of a potential problem. This light is also sometimes referred to as an “SES” light, which stands for “service engine soon”. While it obviously can point to a sign of an engine-related issue, there are many other components that can trigger this warning light that are unrelated to the engine.
As a general rule, it’s always a smart idea to bring your vehicle in as soon as possible when dealing with a check engine light. Our team has the specialized diagnostic tools along with years of expertise dealing with check engine light issues. Additionally, if your check engine light is flashing, this is often a sign of a more serious problem. In instances involving a flashing check engine light, we suggest finding a safe place to stop, shutting down your engine, and having the vehicle towed to an authorized service center.
5 Most Common Causes of a Check Engine Light
#1 - Loose Gas Cap
That’s right! Something as simple as leaving your gas cap loose can trigger a check engine light. The fuel cap is responsible for regulating the pressure within the fuel system and preventing excess vapors from the fuel from escaping. If you’ve not experienced any other signs or symptoms of an engine problem, take a moment to ensure that your gas cap is properly secured. This means twisting the cap until you hear the “click” noise that will indicate it’s secured correctly.
#2 - Oxygen Sensor (O2 Sensor)
The oxygen sensor, also known as the O2 sensor, regulates the amount of unburned oxygen produced by the exhaust. In the event that this important component has failed or is suffering from reduced performance, a check engine light can appear. We recommend scheduling a service appointment to ensure that your vehicle continues to run properly and efficiently.
#3 - Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF Sensor)
This important component continuously monitors the amount of air entering the engine and helps calculate how much fuel is required at any given time to maintain performance and fuel economy. A faulty mass airflow sensor is a common culprit of a check engine light. Let our team of factory-trained Ford technicians inspect your vehicle and get that check engine light problem resolved quickly!
#4 - Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is an important piece of your vehicle’s exhaust system that’s tasked with capturing harmful particulates like carbon monoxide and other gases and converting them into less harmful substances. Even though it’s located far away from your engine, a faulty catalytic converter is known to throw a check engine light.
#5 - Aftermarket Alarm System
Parasitic power drains caused by aftermarket alarm systems or remote start systems can weaken the battery of your vehicle. In situations where there isn’t enough power for accessories, a check engine light code can be thrown. Let our team diagnose your electrical system to determine if this alarm system is the culprit and what the possible solution will be to fix the check engine light.
Ford Check Engine Light Service Near You in Dayton, Ohio
Now that you’ve seen just how different the various causes for a check engine light can be, it’s easy to see why there’s no need for panic. Germain Ford of Beavercreek is proud to be your top destination for expert check engine light diagnosis and service. Our team of technicians is standing by to pinpoint and correct your check engine light problems. Remember, bring your vehicle in for service as soon as possible. You don’t want a minor check engine light turning into a major problem!
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