Check Engine Light in Woodstock, MD
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The orange, engine-shaped light in your dashboard is your car’s way of telling you something may be wrong. While it’s annoying to see when it comes on, it’s not something that should be ignored. In some cases, it could be something small such as a loose gas cap and in other instances, it could be an indication that something more serious requires your attention. There are plenty of reasons that can trigger your check engine light to come on. Here are a few of the most common issues and what it could potentially cost to have them fixed.
If your car needs check engine light diagnostics in Woodstock, Maryland, call AutoStream Car Care Center today to request a check engine light diagnostics appointment. We have a team of professionals on standby to help determine the problem and take care of it for you.
Professional Check Engine Light Diagnostics in Woodstock, Maryland
When it comes to check engine light diagnostics, we are the top-notch experts in Woodstock, Maryland, and the surrounding areas. Whether the check engine light just came on or it’s been on for a while, now is the time to have it looked at. Call AutoStream Car Care Center today at (410) 418-9670 or stop by and see us at 10781 Birmingham Way to make an appointment for a check engine light diagnostic service.
Why is Your Check Engine Light On?
Loose or Broken Fuel Cap
A loose or broken fuel cap is one of the most common reasons why any check engine light turns on. However, the gas cap is what prevents gasoline fumes from exiting the fuel tank and also ensures the car’s system is under the correct pressure. This makes it an essential part of a vehicle’s fuel delivery system. If you notice your engine light turns on after you fill-up at the gas pump, make sure the cap is screwed on tightly or check if it needs to be replaced. If this is the case, most universal gas caps will cost you somewhere between $15-$20.
Oxygen Sensor Failure
The oxygen sensor is what measures how much unburnt oxygen is in a car’s exhaust system. After measuring the data, it is then sent to the vehicle’s computer and uses it to regulate how much of a mixture of air and fuel will enter the cylinders. While your engine will keep running even if the oxygen sensor needs to be replaced, it will drastically affect your fuel efficiency. Over time, a faulty oxygen sensor can damage other vehicle components such as spark plugs and the catalytic converter and might also cause a car to fail an emissions test. If this happens to you, a new oxygen sensor will cost you around $175, but will also include labor costs to replace.
Catalytic Converter Failure
The catalytic converter is integrated into a vehicle’s exhaust system and is what converts generated carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. The good news about this part is that it is fairly simple and failure can oftentimes be prevented. However, if yours needs replacing, it will cost you anywhere between $200-$600 depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
