AAMCO Minnesota Check Engine Light Diagnostic Services

Minnesota AAMCO Transmission and Total Car Care is the best at diagnosing check engine lights and OBD codes in your vehicle to catch any problems before they become more expensive repairs.

Your check engine light is one of the first warning signs of a problem with your car. All cars manufactured in the US since 1996 have included Check Engine Light technology, allowing it to constantly monitor your vehicle’s sensors to look for problems. If your check engine light blinks on, you should get it checked as soon as possible because that could indicate any number of problems, from a serious repair to a loose gas cap. 

What commonly causes a check engine light

There are hundreds of possible causes for a check engine light, however, here are five common problems that trigger your vehicle’s check engine light.

1. Spark Plug Wiring Problems: If your spark plugs or their wiring wear out, this may cause your engine to shake, stall, choke or chug. Without your spark plugs, your car isn’t going anywhere.

2. Mass Airflow Sensor Malfunction: This component measures the airflow amount into your engine; if it fails, your engine can suffer tremendously.

3. Catalytic Converter Replacement: If the catalytic converter has gone bad it has to be replaced, or you risk your car not running.

4. Loose Gap Cap: A loose gas cap is one of the most common culprits for a check engine light. If it comes on after filling gas, pull over and check your gas cap.

5. O2 Sensor Replacement:Your 02 sensors determine the amount of oxygen (02) that goes into your car’s engine to fire the pistons and power your engine. If your 02 sensors need to be replaced, your engine may not be receiving the right mixture of oxygen and fuel.

Learn more in this article: 5 Common Causes For a Check Engine Light

What can you do if your check engine light is on?

Don’t ignore your check engine light, it can lead to more expensive repairs down the line

If your check engine light comes on, look for a problem that requires immediate attention. Is the light flashing, or red? This indicates a serious problem. Also, check for any other warning lights on your dashboard and your dashboard gauges. In some cars, a yellow check engine light means there is a problem that needs to be investigated and a red or flashing light means there is a serious problem and you need to stop right away. Your gauges will help you to determine problems like overheating and low oil pressure. If your car is indicating there is a serious problem you should pull over and turn off your engine as soon as possible.

When your check engine light comes on, you should bring your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to have your check engine light diagnosed. If you check engine light is on, AAMCO Minnesota offers a check engine light diagnostic test, so schedule an appointment with us today. View some of our Specials and Coupons before you come in.

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