Common Reasons the Check Engine Light Illuminates

Roswell Transmission • Oct 23, 2024

When the engine light illuminates, it can be alarming, signaling that something is amiss under the hood. Understanding the common reasons for this warning can help you take timely action and avoid costly repairs. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here are five common causes for the check engine light to turn on.


Faulty Oxygen Sensor

Oxygen sensors play a crucial role in monitoring the level of oxygen in your vehicle’s exhaust system. If the sensor malfunctions, it can lead to poor fuel-economy and increased emissions, prompting the check engine light to turn on. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor is typically straightforward and can improve your vehicle’s performance.


Bad Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is a vital component in your vehicle’s exhaust system, converting harmful gasses into less harmful emissions. If it becomes clogged or damaged, it can cause a significant decrease in engine performance and fuel-efficiency, leading to the illumination of the check engine light. 


Worn Spark Plugs or Wires

Spark plugs and their associated wires are essential for igniting the air-fuel mixture in your engine’s cylinders. If they become worn or damaged, it can lead to misfires and decreased engine performance. A check engine light may illuminate to alert you of this issue. Replacing spark plugs and wires at manufacturer-recommended intervals can help prevent this problem.


Loose or Damaged Gas Cap

One of the simplest reasons for a check engine light to turn on is a loose or damaged gas cap. The gas cap is designed to create a sealed environment for your fuel system. If it’s not properly tightened, fuel may evaporate before your engine gets the chance to use it.


Mass Airflow Sensor Issues

The mass airflow sensor (MAF) measures the amount of air entering the engine, allowing the computer to determine the correct amount of fuel to inject for optimal performance. If the MAF sensor is dirty or malfunctioning, it can lead to poor fuel-economy and performance issues, triggering the check engine light.


Check Engine Light Repair in Roswell, GA

When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment! 


By Roswell Transmission 23 Oct, 2024
When the engine light illuminates, it can be alarming, signaling that something is amiss under the hood. Understanding the common reasons for this warning can help you take timely action and avoid costly repairs. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here are five common causes for the check engine light to turn on. Faulty Oxygen Sensor Oxygen sensors play a crucial role in monitoring the level of oxygen in your vehicle’s exhaust system. If the sensor malfunctions, it can lead to poor fuel-economy and increased emissions, prompting the check engine light to turn on. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor is typically straightforward and can improve your vehicle’s performance. Bad Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter is a vital component in your vehicle’s exhaust system, converting harmful gasses into less harmful emissions. If it becomes clogged or damaged, it can cause a significant decrease in engine performance and fuel-efficiency, leading to the illumination of the check engine light. Worn Spark Plugs or Wires Spark plugs and their associated wires are essential for igniting the air-fuel mixture in your engine’s cylinders. If they become worn or damaged, it can lead to misfires and decreased engine performance. A check engine light may illuminate to alert you of this issue. Replacing spark plugs and wires at manufacturer-recommended intervals can help prevent this problem. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap One of the simplest reasons for a check engine light to turn on is a loose or damaged gas cap. The gas cap is designed to create a sealed environment for your fuel system. If it’s not properly tightened, fuel may evaporate before your engine gets the chance to use it. Mass Airflow Sensor Issues The mass airflow sensor (MAF) measures the amount of air entering the engine, allowing the computer to determine the correct amount of fuel to inject for optimal performance. If the MAF sensor is dirty or malfunctioning, it can lead to poor fuel-economy and performance issues, triggering the check engine light. Check Engine Light Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission and Car Care 25 Sep, 2024
The suspension system in your vehicle plays a key role in maintaining stability, handling, and comfort on the road. When your suspension is compromised, it can lead to a variety of issues that affect both the performance and safety of your car. To avoid bigger problems, it’s crucial to recognize the early signs of suspension trouble. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here are six signs of suspension trouble. Excessive Bouncing One of the most obvious signs of suspension trouble is if your car bounces excessively after hitting a bump or pothole. This typically happens when the shocks or struts are worn out and can no longer absorb road impacts effectively. If your car continues to bounce for a while after hitting a bump, it’s time to get your suspension checked. Rough/Uncomfortable Ride If you’re feeling every bump and dip on the road, your suspension system might not be doing its job. A rough or uncomfortable ride can indicate that your shocks, struts, or other suspension components are worn down or damaged, leading to less cushioning. Uneven Tire Wear A healthy suspension system helps keep your tires balanced and aligned. If you notice uneven or accelerated wear on your tires, it could be due to issues with your suspension. Worn-out components can cause misalignment, leading to uneven pressure on your tires and reduced tread life. Drifting or Pulling to One Side If your car pulls to one side while driving, especially when you’re on a straight road, this could signal a suspension problem. While pulling can also indicate alignment or tire issues, it’s often a sign of uneven wear in the suspension system, which throws the vehicle’s balance off. Nose Dives During Braking When your car lurches forward and "nose dives" when you apply the brakes, it could be a red flag for suspension issues. This occurs when the shocks or struts are worn out and no longer keep the vehicle stable during braking. A car that dips too much when braking could have difficulty stopping effectively, making this a safety concern. Visible Sagging A vehicle that visibly sags or sits lower on one side could be dealing with a broken spring or damaged suspension. This is especially noticeable when your car is parked on a flat surface. Suspension Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment! .
By Roswell Transmission and Car Care 28 Aug, 2024
Transmission fluid is essential for keeping your vehicle’s transmission operating smoothly. A leak can lead to serious transmission issues if not addressed promptly. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here are four signs that you might have a transmission fluid leak. Puddles or Spots Under Your Vehicle One of the most noticeable signs of a transmission fluid leak is finding puddles or spots of reddish-colored fluid under your vehicle. If you notice these stains on your driveway or parking space, it’s a good indication that there’s a leak. The size of the puddle can vary, but even a small spot should be investigated. Low Transmission Fluid Levels Regularly checking your transmission fluid level is a good practice for maintaining your vehicle. If you notice that the fluid level is consistently low, it could be a sign of a leak. Keep an eye on the transmission dipstick and top up the fluid as needed. If you’re constantly adding fluid, a leak is likely the cause. Slipping Gears or Difficulty Shifting Transmission fluid lubricates and cools the transmission components, helping to ensure smooth gear shifts. If your transmission fluid is leaking, you may experience slipping gears or difficulty shifting. This could manifest as hesitation, jerking, or a delay when trying to change gears. If you notice these issues, it’s important to have your transmission checked by the mechanic as soon as possible. Unusual Transmission Noises A lack of adequate transmission fluid can lead to increased friction and wear on the transmission components. This may cause unusual noises such as grinding, whining, or clunking. If you hear any of these noises, especially if accompanied by other symptoms of a leak, it’s important to have your transmission inspected and repaired. Transmission Repair in Roswell, GA When you need transmission repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly conduct any type of repair or maintenance that your vehicle needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission and Car Care 19 Jun, 2024
The transmission, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, is a complex system that requires proper care and attention. And because transmission issues can be quite costly to address, it’s important to avoid bad habits that can increase the risk of transmission trouble. Here’s a look at four common ways that drivers cause transmission issues. Ignoring Fluid Levels and Quality Transmission fluid is vital for lubricating and cooling the transmission components. Ignoring fluid levels or using the wrong type can lead to overheating, increased friction, and ultimately, premature wear and tear. Drivers should regularly check transmission fluid levels and ensure they are using the manufacturer-recommended fluid type. Neglecting fluid changes at recommended intervals can also increase the risk of serious problems. Aggressive Driving Driving habits have a direct impact on transmission health. Abrupt acceleration and aggressive driving maneuvers can place undue stress on the transmission. This stress manifests as increased heat generation and higher wear on gears, clutches, and bearings. This can eventually lead to components wearing out faster than expected, causing significant transmission problems. Resting Foot on the Clutch Pedal In vehicles with manual transmissions, resting your foot on the clutch pedal while driving, even lightly, can cause the clutch to partially engage. This constant partial engagement leads to premature wear of clutch components. Drivers should practice keeping their foot off the clutch pedal when not actively shifting gears. Towing Beyond Vehicle Capacity Using a vehicle to tow loads heavier than its recommended capacity places excessive strain on the transmission. The additional weight increases the load on transmission components, causing them to work harder than intended. As the miles add up, this strain can lead to overheating, fluid degradation, and premature wear of transmission parts. Drivers should always adhere to the manufacturer's towing guidelines to help prevent transmission damage. Transmission Service in Roswell, GA For transmission service in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission and Car Care Inc. 24 May, 2024
Regular oil changes play a crucial role in keeping your engine in optimal condition. It’s very important to follow your vehicle’s guidelines for oil change mileage points, as well as specific oil type. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide full-service oil changes in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here’s a look at four benefits of keeping up with oil changes. Engine Longevity Your car's engine consists of numerous moving parts that require proper lubrication to function efficiently. Fresh, clean oil provides this lubrication, reducing friction and preventing excessive wear and tear on engine components. As it ages, oil can become contaminated with debris, losing its lubricating properties and becoming less effective at protecting the engine. Regular oil changes help ensure that your engine stays adequately lubricated, thus prolonging its lifespan. Enhanced Performance If you want your car to deliver its best performance, regular oil changes are crucial. Clean oil keeps engine components running smoothly, allowing them to function optimally and deliver the power and responsiveness you expect from your vehicle. Neglecting oil changes can result in sluggish acceleration, reduced power output, and overall diminished performance. By adhering to your oil change schedule, you can enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable driving experience. Preventive Maintenance Regular oil changes not only replenish your engine with fresh oil, but also give mechanics the opportunity to inspect other vital components, such as filters and belts, for signs of wear or damage. Addressing minor issues early through routine maintenance can help prevent more significant problems down the road, potentially saving you a significant amount of money. Preserve Resale Value If you plan to sell or trade in your vehicle in the future, maintaining a detailed service history, including regular oil changes, can significantly enhance its resale value. Prospective buyers look for well-maintained cars that have been cared for properly, and a documented history of routine maintenance instills confidence in the vehicle. By adhering to your oil change schedule and keeping accurate records, you’ll have a better chance of getting top dollar when it comes time to sell.. Full-Service Oil Change in Roswell, GA When you need auto maintenance in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. At our local auto shop, we can expertly complete your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission and Car Care 24 Apr, 2024
Your car's cooling system is crucial for maintaining optimal engine temperature and preventing overheating. Ignoring cooling system issues can lead to costly repairs and even engine damage. Being aware of the signs of a cooling system problem is important for every car owner. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here’s a look at four symptoms of a cooling system problem. Temperature Gauge Is Spiking One of the most obvious signs of a cooling system problem is that your dashboard temperature gauge spikes into the red zone, indicating overheating. In such a situation, you should safely pull over and allow your car to cool before investigating the source of the problem. Leaking Coolant Coolant is vital for regulating your engine's temperature. If you notice puddles of brightly-colored fluid under your car after it has been parked, there’s a good chance that coolant is leaking from the system. Leaks can occur due to various reasons such as a damaged hose, a corroded radiator, or a faulty water pump. Ignoring coolant leaks can lead to engine overheating and major engine trouble. Visible Steam/Smoke If you see steam or smoke coming from under the hood of your car, it's a sign of a serious cooling system problem. This often indicates that coolant is leaking onto hot engine components and evaporating, creating steam. Continuing to drive your vehicle under these conditions can cause severe damage to the engine. Pull over quickly and safely, and then allow the engine to cool down before assessing the situation or seeking professional help. Strange Smells Coolant has a distinct odor that is often described as sweet or sugary. If you notice this smell while driving or after parking your car, it's important to investigate the source. Ignoring coolant leaks can lead to very costly engine problems. Cooling System Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission 25 Mar, 2024
When transmission issues arise, they often worsen quickly. This makes it important to get your car to the shop at the first indication of a transmission issue. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here’s a look at four warning signs of transmission trouble. Strange Noises Abnormal transmission noises can vary from a whining or buzzing sound to a clunking or grinding noise. When you hear these sounds, especially while shifting gears, it's essential to pay attention. Strange noises can arise from a variety of issues, from low transmission fluid to worn-out bearings. Difficulty Shifting Gears Difficulty shifting gears is another common sign of transmission trouble. You may notice hesitation or resistance when changing gears, whether you drive a manual or automatic transmission vehicle. In a manual transmission, this could indicate issues with the clutch, such as worn-out clutch plates or a malfunctioning clutch linkage. For automatic transmissions, problems shifting gears smoothly might be due to low transmission fluid, a faulty solenoid, or a more severe internal issue. Delayed Engagement Delayed engagement occurs when there's a noticeable delay between shifting into gear and feeling the transmission engage. You might experience a delay in acceleration after shifting between park, drive, and reverse. This delay could be caused by various factors, including low transmission fluid or a worn-out torque converter. If you notice this symptom, it's important to have your transmission inspected promptly to prevent further damage. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating moving parts within the transmission and maintaining optimal performance. If you spot reddish-colored leaks underneath your vehicle, there’s a good chance that it’s transmission fluid. Transmission fluid leaks can occur due to issues such as damaged seals and worn-out gaskets. Driving with low transmission fluid levels can lead to overheating and serious damage to your transmission. Therefore, it's essential to address fluid leaks promptly. Transmission Repair in Roswell, GA For transmission service in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission & Car Care 26 Feb, 2024
Recognizing the signs of engine trouble early on can save you from potential breakdowns and higher repair bills. When you first notice an indication of an engine issue, it’s best to bring it to the mechanic’s attention. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of an engine problem. Strange Noises Unusual sounds coming from the engine are a common sign of trouble. Hissing, knocking, clicking, or banging noises are red flags. Hissing sounds may suggest a vacuum leak, while knocking sounds might indicate a piston problem. Abnormal engine noises should always be investigated ASAP. Check Engine Light An illuminated check engine light doesn’t automatically mean your engine is about to fully fail. But you should promptly visit the shop for diagnostics so the issue can be identified and addressed before it gets worse. Common reasons the check engine light comes on include problems with oxygen sensors, MAF sensors, and catalytic converters. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke Excessive smoke emitting from your vehicle's exhaust is a sign that something is amiss within the engine. Different colored smoke can indicate various problems. Blue smoke might suggest burning oil, white smoke could be a sign of a coolant leak, and black smoke may indicate an overly rich fuel mixture. In any case, it's essential to address the issue promptly to prevent bigger trouble. Fluid Leaks Leaking fluids under your parked car could be a sign of an engine problem. Engine oil or coolant leaks can compromise the overall performance and longevity of your vehicle. Regularly check for puddles beneath your car and address any leaks promptly to help prevent damage. Overheating Overheating can be attributed to various issues, such as a faulty thermostat or a leaking radiator. Ignoring overheating can lead to severe engine damage, so it's crucial to address the problem as soon as possible. Engine Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission and Car Care 29 Jan, 2024
Your alternator is responsible for generating electrical power to charge the battery and power various electrical components. When the alternator malfunctions, it can lead to a host of issues, and can potentially leave you stranded. This makes it important to get to the shop when you first notice a sign of alternator trouble. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, our local mechanics provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here are five signs of an alternator problem. Dimming or Flickering Lights If you notice your headlights becoming increasingly dim while driving, or if the interior lights flicker, it could be an indication that the alternator is not producing enough power to keep the electrical system running smoothly. Ignoring this symptom may lead to a drained battery and eventual stalling of your vehicle. Warning Light on the Dashboard If your alternator is failing, you may see a warning light on the dashboard, such as the battery icon or the "ALT" (alternator) indicator. These lights are designed to alert you to potential issues with the charging system and should not be ignored. Strange Noises Unusual noises coming from the engine compartment may indicate alternator problems. A worn-out or damaged alternator often produces a whining or grinding noise. If you hear such sounds, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by the mechanic to diagnose and address the issue promptly. Difficulty Starting the Vehicle An alternator generates the power needed to start your vehicle. If you experience difficulty starting your car, it may be a sign that the alternator is not charging the battery properly. While a dead battery is a common culprit, a malfunctioning alternator may be the underlying cause. Electrical Accessory Issues The alternator powers various electrical components in your vehicle, including the radio, power windows, and air conditioning. If you notice these components behaving erratically or failing altogether, it could indicate an alternator problem. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission & Car Care 22 Dec, 2023
Ignoring signs of brake trouble can lead to serious consequences, compromising not only your safety but also the safety of others on the road. So when you first suspect an issue with your brakes, it’ll be best to visit the shop for an inspection. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, our local mechanics provide expert brake repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here are four warning signs of a brake problem. Squeaking or Squealing Noises One of the most common signs of brake trouble is unusual noises when you apply the brakes. If you hear a high-pitched squeaking or squealing sound, it could indicate worn-out brake pads. Brake pads come equipped with a wear indicator that produces these sounds when the pads are nearing the end of their life. Ignoring this warning may lead to decreased braking efficiency and potential damage to other brake components. Grinding Sounds A grinding noise when you apply the brakes is a more severe sign of trouble. This could mean that the brake pads have completely worn down, and the metal parts of the brakes are now rubbing against each other. It's crucial to address this issue promptly to avoid damage to rotors. Vibrations When you apply the brakes, if you feel vibrations or pulsations through the steering wheel or brake pedal, it may be a sign of warped brake rotors. If there’s a degraded area on the rotor, the pad may transfer to it unevenly, leading to vibrations. Dashboard Warning Light An illuminated ABS (anti-lock braking system) warning light is a sign of brake trouble that should be brought to the mechanic’s attention. This light can get triggered by issues such as faulty wheel speed sensors and low brake fluid. If your car has a brake fluid leak, then you have a serious safety hazard and shouldn’t drive it. Rather, it’ll be safest to get towed to the shop. Brake Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
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