It’s a car owner’s worst nightmare: You’re driving along the road when, all of a sudden, the check engine light goes on. Kalispell Alignment & Auto Repair in Kalispell, MT, knows the light can be intimidating, but there’s no reason to panic. Many times, your check engine light will come on due to minor problems with your vehicle.

If your check engine light is illuminated, here are five of the most common causes:

• Oxygen Sensor: Your oxygen sensor measures the amount of unburned oxygen in your vehicle’s exhaust. However, if it’s failing, it will cause the check engine light to appear. Because of this, it’s always prudent to bring in your vehicle for a tune up as soon as you’re aware of an issue.
• Gas Cap: Often, when your check engine light goes on, your vehicle may not really be in need of extensive auto repairs. If your car’s gas cap is loose, damaged, or missing, that could be the cause of your check engine warning.
• Airflow Sensor: Another important component is your vehicle’s airflow sensor, which determines the amount of air entering your engine and how much fuel is needed. Changing this sensor when necessary will help you avoid costly auto repairs down the road.
• Catalytic Converter: Your car’s catalytic converter helps it convert the carbon monoxide created by your vehicle into harmless carbon dioxide. If it’s not well maintained, your catalytic converter can fail, causing your check engine light to illuminate.
• Spark Plugs: Spark plugs are an integral part of your engine because they help ignite its air/fuel mixture, creating the combustion needed for it to start. If your check engine light is on and you’re having trouble starting your vehicle, you could be in need of a new spark plug or other auto repairs.

To learn more about what causes your car’s check engine light to come on, contact the car repair professionals from Kalispell Alignment & Auto Repair today at (406) 755-0234 or visit them online.