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Why is my Check Engine light on?

Why is check engine light on

Why is my “Check Engine” light on?

Most people realize that something is wrong with their vehicle when their “check engine” light turns on, but know little beyond that. While it’s still in your best interest to visit a mechanic when you see it turn on, there’s nothing wrong with trying to diagnose the problem on your own.
Here are some of the most common reasons why your check engine light is on:
Your gas cap is loose
Many people don’t realize this, but a loose or broken gas cap is one of the more common reasons why your engine light turns on. By sealing the fuel system, the gas cap helps to maintain pressure within the fuel tank. Without it, you’re likely to lose more fuel, meaning your gas bill will go up considerably.
The good news is, gas caps are cheap to replace, so there’s really no excuse for not getting a new one.
Issues with the catalytic converter
You may not realize it, but a catalytic converter is one of the most important components in any vehicle. By transforming toxic gases into less harmful compounds, your catalytic converter is able to significantly reduce both vehicle emissions and pollution.
If your converter isn’t working, not only will you be damaging the environment, but you’ll also experience lower performance and fuel economy. Furthermore, there’s no chance you’ll pass an emissions test if you’re having issues with your catalytic converter.
If you notice any strange sounds or discoloured smoke coming from the exhaust, you should have a good idea of why your engine light is on.
Go to a mechanic
While you’ll now have a good idea of why your check engine light is on, it’s still in your best interest to have your car looked at by a mechanic. Not only will they have the expertise necessary to diagnose the problem, but they’ll also have the ability to fix it before it gets any worse.