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Check Engine Light: A Common Problem!

You’re starting your car and suddenly—boom!—that dreaded “Check Engine” light appears on your dashboard. You get confused. What is this? What is going on? Should you ignore it? Questions race in your mind. You begin to calculate how much your mechanic will bill you. Relax. let’s break down the common reasons why your Check Engine Light (CEL) is on and what you should do next.

Loose, Bad or No Fuel Tank Cover (Yes, It’s That Simple!)

Sometimes, the problem isn’t even deep. If your fuel tank cover is loose, broken or missing, your car’s system thinks there’s a fuel leak. Before you start sweating, check and tighten the cap—it could save you from an unnecessary trip to your mechanic.

Oxygen Sensor Wahala

This small but mighty sensor which is often overlooked by many monitors the amount of unburned oxygen in your exhaust. If it fails, your fuel efficiency will drop, and your car will start drinking petrol like pure water. Don’t ignore it for too long, or it might damage other parts of your engine.

Bad Spark Plugs Causes Engine Stress

If your spark plugs are worn out, your engine will misfire, shake, and struggle like a generator running out of fuel, I’m sure you are familiar with how this feels. Replace them on time to keep your car running smoothly and avoid spending extra on fuel.

Catalytic Converter Don Dey Complain

Your catalytic converter helps reduce harmful emissions. If it goes bad, your car will begin to consume too much fuel, sometimes your car interior will smell of fuel, and in extreme cases your car will emit smoke from the exhaust. Fix it before it ruins your entire exhaust system.

Low or Dirty Engine Oil

Low or dirty oil can trigger your Check Engine Light. If you haven’t checked your oil in a while, now is a good time. Driving with bad oil is like inviting a troop of monkeys to your party—it just won’t end well!

Engine or Gear Palava

Like everything big, it starts small. If you leave the issues above unresolved, it’s a guarantee that this will generate to a much bigger problem which will affect your engine or gear, therefore be mindful.

Final Thoughts

That Check Engine Light is not your enemy—it’s just your car’s way of crying for help. Don’t ignore it! A small issue today can turn into big money tomorrow.

Is your Check Engine light on? Visit HERE to diagnose the culprit. Also, share your experience in the comments—what experience have you had with a Check Engine Light?

About Nonso Okafor

I've worked as a technical support representative in major auto centers in Nigeria for more than twenty years. I have dealt with a variety of problems in my capacity as a customer service representative and auto diagnostics expert. I'm committed to assisting people in properly maintaining their automobiles and in appreciating this magnificent innovation known as an automobile.

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