My car has been running like a champ, but then this morning - BAM! - the dreaded check engine light comes on. The car seems to be driving okay for now, but the illuminated light is definitely causing anxiety.
Car details: It's a dependable [year] [make] [model] with [mileage] miles. Regular maintenance is up to date.
Problem: Check engine light is on with no noticeable performance issues.
Possible Causes:
Loose Gas Cap: A loose or faulty gas cap can sometimes trigger the check engine light.
Sensor Malfunction: A faulty sensor might be sending incorrect signals to the engine computer, causing the light to illuminate.
More Serious Issue: While less likely, the light could indicate a more serious engine problem.
Course of Action:
Checking the Gas Cap: Seems like a simple fix, so I'll start by tightening the gas cap and see if the light goes off after a few drives.
OBD-II Scanner: Thinking about investing in a cheap OBD-II scanner to potentially retrieve any diagnostic trouble codes stored by the car's computer.
Mechanic Visit: If the light persists or the code retrieved seems concerning, a trip to the mechanic is unavoidable.
Anyone have experience with a check engine light coming on with no symptoms? Sharing what the culprit was in your case or if a code reader helped diagnose the issue would be much appreciated!