When a vehicle ignition key is in the “on†position but before cranking the engine; quite a number of lights come on and are clearly visible on the dash board. The lights have different colors, shape and serve different purposes.
The check engine light works through the vehicle computer using signals from sensors. The light is simply telling you that your vehicle is not operating at top efficiency. This mal-function light informs you of a problem anywhere in the vehicles electronic engine control system. This information can basically be as a result of sensors, valves actuators that is why it is referred to as a vehicle emissions system. It however, does more than emissions.
When this light comes on, there must be an intermittent problem. The easiest way to know exactly what the problem is would be by use of a code reader which should be connected via Data Link Connector. In our third world country, there are only a few places with these electronic gadgets. We therefore end up with try and error methods.
The first thing they are likely to tell you is to change the timing belt. Then they will also advise you to carry out an engine tune up. Before you know it they will be talking of the oxygen sensor. An oxygen sensor is part of the emissions system and it is used to substantially reduce pollutants and harmful gasoline vapours from escaping at the fuel tank. Oxygen sensors examine the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gas leaving the engine. The amount of oxygen is directly related to the air/fuel mixture entering the engine.
That said, a clogged air cleaner will cause the light to come on. The same applies to poor spark plugs, bad fuel, driving conditions, vehicle mileage, damaged sensor and maintenance history. This is typical tear and wear.
When this light comes on, an engine tune up may be called for but in several cases I have realized that changing the air cleaner normally solves the problem. However, routine servicing of the vehicle at the right time will keep the light away.
Whenever a check engine light comes on, the vehicle is warning its driver that the vehicle is not working at per. The fuel consumption is likely to increase, the performance of the vehicle may also deteriorate. While in most cases it is a warning, it will give you chance to drive to your technician for remedial action. It is highly recommended that you talk the vehicle for a diagnosis as soon as you possibly can.
If the light comes on for a while and then goes off, the problem may be momentary. If it comes on and remains on it means the problem is ongoing. It the light flashes on and off, the vehicle has a severe problem that should not under any circumstance be ignored. If you don’t take the vehicle for immediate attention other parts in the vehicle will be damaged.
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