Check Engine Light
Check Engine Light Diagnostics in Steger, New Lenox, Schererville, and Crown Point
Few things are more stressful than looking at your gauge cluster while driving and seeing the little yellow “check engine” symbol lit up. The uncertainty of what it might is nerve-racking. Maybe the vehicle is running rough, but more often than not it will be driving almost if not completely normal.
There are countless reasons your check engine light (CEL) might be lit up, and even if you know the specific code it might not provide you with much in the way of a diagnosis. Bringing your vehicle to a professional for an in-depth inspection and diagnosis is your best bet for avoiding the issue worsening and becoming more problematic.
Some common causes of check engine lights include:
You should always bring in your car as soon as you see the dreaded orange light, but if the light is flashing, it’s imperative you do not continue driving the vehicle. A flashing CEL indicates a misfire, and continuing to operate the vehicle can lead to expensive or even catastrophic engine issues.
That being said, CELs can often be something simple, such as a loose gas cap. It’s better to be safe than sorry though, and bringing in your vehicle is your best bet to avoid further issues.
A Code Is a Clue, Not a Diagnosis
When your check engine light comes on, your car’s computer stores a trouble code describing what it noticed, such as a misfire or a lean fuel mixture. A parts-store code reader can tell you that code, but not why it happened. A single misfire code, for example, could come from a spark plug, an ignition coil, a fuel injector, a vacuum leak, or low compression.
How We Diagnose Your Check Engine Light
- Read stored and pending codes plus freeze-frame data showing conditions when the fault occurred
- Check for manufacturer technical service bulletins related to the code
- Review live sensor data while the engine runs
- Perform hands-on tests on the suspect components
- Explain the root cause and give you a repair recommendation before any work begins
This approach keeps you from paying for parts you didn’t need.
More Common Causes
In addition to spark plugs, sensors, and catalytic converters, check engine lights are often triggered by evaporative emissions (EVAP) leaks, faulty ignition coils, vacuum leaks, thermostat problems, and failing EGR valves. A light that comes on and goes off on its own still deserves a look, since the code stays stored in memory.
Emissions Testing and Your Check Engine Light
In areas that require emissions testing, an illuminated check engine light can mean a failed test. Clearing the code isn’t enough, because the car’s self-monitors need to complete again before it’s ready to retest. Fixing the real problem is the only reliable way through.
Check Engine Light Diagnostics at Scott’s U-Save.
Figuring out an unknown problem is one of the more challenging aspects of automotive repair. At Scott’s U-Save, our ASE-Certified Technicians are trained in vehicle diagnostics. They will recommend repairs to fix the issue causing the check engine light. We have four locations in New Lenox, IL; Schererville, IN; Steger, IL; and Crown Point, IN making it easy for you to get your check engine light diagnosed. Stop in today or schedule online!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive with my check engine light on?
If the light is steady and the car drives normally, it’s usually OK to drive to the shop soon. If it’s flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or rough running, stop driving and call us.
Can a loose gas cap really turn on the check engine light?
Yes. A loose or worn cap lets fuel vapor escape and triggers an EVAP code. Tighten it until it clicks; the light may take several drive cycles to turn off.
Why did my check engine light turn off on its own?
Some faults are intermittent. The light can turn off when the condition stops, but the code usually remains stored. It’s worth having it checked before it returns or worsens.
Can’t I just clear the code myself?
You can, but it only hides the symptom. The light will return if the problem remains, and clearing codes resets the readiness monitors needed for emissions testing.
How long does a check engine light diagnosis take?
Simple issues can be identified quickly. Intermittent or electrical problems may take longer to trace. We’ll keep you updated and won’t start repairs without your approval.