One of the clearest signs your vehicle needs repairs is when your check engine light turns on. However, the professionals from Safe Auto Service in Meriden, CT, want you to know that such a warning can mean a host of different things, so they’ve compiled a few of the most common causes below. 

For those who want to stay on top of auto repairs, here are five auto maintenance issues that will cause your check engine light to turn on: 

Oxygen Sensors 

Your vehicle’s oxygen sensors measure the level of oxygen in your exhaust system, which helps regulate the amount of fuel your engine burns. If it’s not replaced, it can drastically affect your car’s fuel economy, as well as damage its catalytic converter and spark plugs. Because of this, bringing it to a reliable auto repair shop at the first sign of trouble is essential. 

Catalytic Converter 

The catalytic converter enables your car’s exhaust system to convert harmful carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide, making it extremely important for environmental reasons. Having a faulty converter won’t just prevent you from passing emissions, it will also greatly decrease its performance. 

Gas Cap Issue

Your car’s gas cap is important for several reasons; it helps maintain the pressure in the fuel tank and prevents harmful gas fumes from escaping. As such, when your vehicle’s gas cap is damaged, missing, or loose, your car will let you know by illuminating the check engine light. 

Faulty Spark Plugs 

No vehicle will go very far without a working spark plug. Your car’s spark plug helps ignite the fuel and air mixture that creates the combustion needed to start your engine. To avoid any wiring or engine issues, a faulty spark plug should be switched out immediately. 

Mass Airflow Sensor

Much like your oxygen sensors, your vehicle’s mass airflow sensor helps regulate the amount of air entering your engine, determining the amount of fuel needed for it to run properly. When it’s malfunctioning, it can reduce your car’s fuel efficiency and negatively impact its other components, so changing it in a timely manner is recommended. 

Don’t let your check engine light bring your vehicle to a screeching halt, contact the professionals from Safe Auto Service today at (203) 237-4311 to schedule a diagnostics service appointment to find a solution. You can also follow them on Google + for more helpful tips.