Car Diagnostic Services in Seattle, WA

Why Is My Check Engine Light On?

• Loose Gas Cap: Believe it or not, a loose gas cap is one of the most common reasons for your check engine light to come on. A loose gas cap can cause fuel vapors to leak out and trigger your car’s emission control system.
• Faulty Oxygen Sensor: The oxygen sensor measures the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system. If this sensor is faulty, it can cause a drop in fuel efficiency and increase harmful emissions.
• Malfunctioning Spark Plugs: Spark plugs are essential for igniting the air-fuel mixture in your engine. If they’re worn out or malfunctioning, it can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel economy, and potential damage to your catalytic converter.
• Catalytic Converter Issues: The catalytic converter helps reduce harmful emissions by converting carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. If it’s not functioning properly, it can lead to a decrease in fuel efficiency and potentially fail emissions tests.
• EGR Valve Problems: The EGR valve recirculates exhaust gases back into the engine to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. When this valve becomes clogged or malfunctioning, it can cause issues with your car’s overall performance.

Flashing vs. Steady Check Engine Light

• Flashing Light: This means you’ve got a more serious issue on your hands, so get it checked out immediately.
• Steady Light: While not an emergency, this still indicates a problem you shouldn’t ignore. Schedule a diagnostic test as soon as possible to prevent future headaches.

Check Engine Light When Starting the Car

It’s normal for your check engine light to appear briefly when starting the car. This is your vehicle’s way of testing circuits, and the light should go off once everything checks out.

What’s Included in a Full Diagnostic Test?

Our auto mechanics perform a comprehensive diagnostic test to get to the root of the problem. Here’s what’s involved:

• Visual Inspection: Checking related components for any obvious issues.
• System Analysis: Using computer printouts or displays to analyze the system.
• Researching Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Looking for related symptoms or known issues.
• Pinpoint Testing: Narrowing down problem areas to eliminate guesswork.
• Component Diagnosis: Carefully testing each part of the system to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Once our diagnostic tests are completed, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the issue and recommended steps before any repairs are done. You’ll know exactly what’s wrong and what it’ll take to get your car back in top shape.