Why is the engine light on?
The engine light (check engine) can turn on for many reasons – from a simple fuel-cap issue to more serious problems in the engine or exhaust. Here we go through the most common causes and when you should visit the workshop.
- Fuel cap or filler issue
- Lambda sensor (oxygen sensor)
- Spark plugs or ignition coil
- Charge-air hose / turbo
- Exhaust system and catalytic converter
- Reliable diagnosis & repair in Gothenburg
When the engine light comes on, the car's engine control unit (ECU) reacts to a deviation in one of the systems. The fault is stored as a code and can be read with an OBD reader. Common causes of the engine light: 1. Faulty or loose fuel cap – easy to fix. 2. The lambda sensor measures the wrong fuel/air mix. 3. Spark plugs or ignition coil are no longer working optimally. 4. Leak in the charge-air hose or turbo problems. 5. Faulty catalytic converter or other exhaust components. 6. Faulty MAF sensor (mass airflow meter). At Däck Dax in Gothenburg we do a fast and thorough fault-code reading to find exactly what is causing the engine light. We repair the fault on-site – whether it is a simple sensor or a more complicated engine fault. Call 031-395 12 00 or book a time and we will help you right away.
Frequently asked questions
- What does it mean when the engine light is yellow?
- A yellow engine light (check engine) means the engine control system has detected a fault that needs attention. The car can usually still be driven, but you should book a diagnosis as soon as possible to avoid bigger damage.
- Can I drive when the engine light is on?
- If the light is steady yellow you can usually drive short distances, but book a workshop within a few days. If the light flashes, the fault is more serious – stop and tow the car to the workshop.
- What does it cost to diagnose the engine light?
- We do a quick and affordable fault-code read at the workshop. Call 031-395 12 00 for the current price and to book a time.
- What are the most common causes of the engine light?
- Common causes are: faulty fuel cap, lambda sensor, ignition coil, spark plugs, charge-air hose or exhaust system. With modern diagnosis equipment we find the fault quickly.
- Can the engine light turn off by itself?
- Yes, if the fault is temporary (e.g. bad fuel or a half-closed cap) the light may turn off after a few starts. If it comes back on, let a workshop do a proper check.