As you carry on with the day’s responsibilities, it’s the small and sudden interruptions that can easily throw your routine off course. However, certain distractions—such as the illumination of the dashboard check engine light—are crucial to address. If you’re wondering why this notification popped up and if it really matters, consult the following auto care guide.

Why Is the Check Engine Light On?

In some cases, your car’s check engine light may illuminate when the gas cap is loose, missing, or damaged. If you recently filled up your gas tank, take a second to stop and check that your gas cap is intact. Other times, the issue won’t be as easy to fix. Your engine’s oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, or mass airflow sensor could be faulty. You may also need to have a professional auto care facility replace your vehicle’s spark plugs or wires.

Why Should You Address It?

Addressing the reason behind the check engine light is best done sooner rather than later. Taking your car to an auto care center is the only way to find out if it’s a small issue that can be easily fixed or a severe problem that should be taken care of immediately. For example, the catalytic converter converts carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide, preventing the first from damaging the environment. If this component is not repaired, your car won’t pass an emissions test, and it will be at an increased risk of overheating. If the oxygen sensor needs to be swapped out, your fuel economy will decline, and damage will spread to neighboring parts, such as the spark plugs.

If your check engine light is on, take your vehicle to Professional Automotive in Anchorage, AK, today. This trusted auto care center has over 25 years of experience helping area drivers with their Automotive Service Excellence-certified team. To learn more about their specialties, from tuneups to suspension repair, visit their website. You can also call them at (907) 562-2471 to schedule an appointment.