Easy methods to Repair a Verify Engine Light

A examine engine light (CEL), also referred to as a malfunction-indicator light (MIL) is really a warning sign that a little something inside your engine, fuel or emissions strategy is simply not operating correctly. Though most check engine lights never level to dire problems that would cause your motor vehicle to break down, some do. Check engine lights are frequently an indicator of an emission-related dilemma. Check out engine lights can cause your motor vehicle to carry out inefficiently and fail an emissions test. Others Are Reading Learn how to Reset a Subaru Examine Engine Light The way to Diagnose Your Test Engine Light Concern at no cost Elements You will need OBD-II Code Scanner Demonstrate Alot more Guidelines 1

Tighten your fuel cap (three clicks) and continue to drive your motor vehicle. One of the most common factors for a check out engine light is a loose fuel cap. A loose fuel cap can set off quite a few emission-related codes for your vehicle's diagnostic technique. In the event the examine engine light doesn't turn off following 15 to twenty minutes of driving, start diagnosing the situation.

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Turn your ignition to your "On" or "Acc" position, without cranking the engine. Connect the OBD-II scanner to your diagnostic port in your automobile. The diagnostic port is quite often below the steering column in the area of the hood release.

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Follow the specific scanner directions to retrieve the diagnostic codes. This is ordinarily performed by pressing the "Scan" button on the device. Wait a few seconds for the scanner to list the codes. The scanner display will list the number of diagnostic codes. It is commonplace for a lot of codes to display. Write down each of them. Diagnostic codes are often presented in five digits, such as "P0141."

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Use the handbook supplied with your code scanner to determine the meaning of each code. To get a significantly more thorough listing, visit the website obd-codes.com. This website will give you a complete listing of OBD-II codes, as well as their possible causes. Some code meanings will be very direct and clear, such as "O2 sensor failure" or "Catalytic Converter." Others will be broad in their possible causes.

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Determine whether you can correct the trouble on your own. Some simple complications, such as an engine misfire on cylinder one, will lead to simple issues such as a faulty spark plug or wire. These difficulties can often be tackled at home by the mechanically inclined.

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Bring the motor vehicle to a service shop if the dilemma cannot be solved at home. By diagnosing the issue on your own, you may save yourself a mechanic's diagnostic fee (frequently $75 or $100).