We Offer Diagnostics Testing and Repair — AutoStream Car Care Center
Check Engine Light 101
When the check engine light comes on in your dashboard, it signals two things: 1, a problem has been detected somewhere within your vehicle, and 2, it’s time to schedule an appointment at AutoStream Car Care Center in Owings Mills, Maryland for check engine light diagnostics service. The check engine light (CEL) is part of your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system (OBD-II), integrated with all models from 1996 and onward. The OBD-II system relies on various sensors throughout your vehicle that monitor key systems, such as the engine and exhaust system. If it identifies an issue, it’ll generate the respective diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and store it in the system’s memory. At the same time, it’ll transmit the alert to notify the driver via the check engine light. If your car is presenting a flashing check engine light, this signifies an urgent issue has been detected. More often than not, we do not recommend you continue driving in this scenario. Give us a call, and we can arrange a tow to pick up your vehicle and bring it to our auto repair shop, where we’ll perform check engine light diagnostics.
The check engine light is somewhat of a mystery when it first comes on. Is it your engine? Is there a problem with the transmission? There are many reasons you may experience an illuminated check engine light, ranging from a loose gas cap to a faulty catalytic converter. If an oxygen sensor goes bad, which regulates your engine’s air-fuel ratio, your CEL will come on, and your performance will suffer; it can impact combustion intervals, your engine’s timing, and more. A defective EGR valve is another common reason, which may also be associated with reduced acceleration and power, decreased fuel efficiency, and increased emissions. Additional possibilities include a vacuum leak, faulty mass airflow sensor, malfunctioning air injectors, and bad spark plugs. The only way to know for sure what the issue is? Check engine light diagnostics. Our advanced equipment tells us where the problem is, and through an extensive inspection, we’ll be able to pinpoint the exact issue.
Schedule Check Engine Light Diagnostics Today
At AutoStream Car Care Center, we know how frustrating (and, admittedly, annoying) the illumination of the check engine light can be. Even if your vehicle may appear to be running fine, we don’t recommend putting off a service visit. A small problem can quickly turn into a larger and more severe issue. Our check engine light diagnostics service makes the entire situation a pain-free experience. Our ASE-Certified technicians work efficiently and without error, ensuring proper diagnosis and repair. If extensive service is needed, we offer a loaner car program and shuttle service. Otherwise, you are welcome to hang out in our comfortable waiting area! Many of our services also come with a lifetime warranty. If you need to schedule check engine light diagnostics, or if you would like more information, please call us today at 410-431-2059. We’re here Monday through Friday, and we’ll get your car running like new again in no time.
You can give us a call or easily schedule an appointment online for any of our 10 convenient auto shop locations in the greater Baltimore/Washington areas.
Monday – Friday
8am – 6pm
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