Engine
    medium urgency
    car
    truck
    rv

    Why Is My Check Engine Light On?

    Typical repair cost: $0–$1,200

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    Common Symptoms

    Solid amber check-engine light
    Flashing check-engine light
    Loss of power
    Rough idle
    Failed emissions test

    Most Likely Causes

    1

    Loose or failed gas cap

    The most common cause. A loose cap triggers an evaporative-emissions (EVAP) code such as P0455.

    2

    Failed oxygen sensor

    Worn O2 sensors are the #1 long-tail cause and reduce fuel economy 15-40%.

    3

    Failed catalytic converter

    Often caused by ignoring an earlier code; usually presents as P0420 or P0430.

    4

    Bad mass airflow (MAF) sensor

    Dirty or failed MAF causes hesitation, stalling, and codes like P0101.

    5

    Worn spark plugs or coils

    Triggers misfire codes (P0300-P0308) — a flashing CEL means do not keep driving.

    How a Shop Diagnoses It

    1. 1.Read the OBD-II code with a scanner — that's the starting point, not the answer.
    2. 2.Inspect the gas cap first; reset the code and drive a few cycles.
    3. 3.Check fuel trims (short and long term) for vacuum leaks or sensor drift.
    4. 4.Smoke-test the EVAP system if the code is in the P0440-P0457 range.
    5. 5.Compare upstream and downstream O2 readings for catalyst-efficiency codes.

    When to see a professional

    See a mechanic now if the light is flashing, the engine is running rough, or you smell raw fuel — continued driving can destroy the catalytic converter.

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    Parts pros use for this job

    Scan your own codes

    A basic OBD-II scanner pays for itself the first time you avoid a diagnostic fee.

    • Bluetooth scanners for any phone
    • Live data & freeze frame
    • Reset check engine light

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