A steady check engine light can be attributed to one of the problems listed below; a flashing check engine light signals a serious problem and you shouldn’t drive your Audi. RSW European Automotive Repair can run a diagnostic test on your Audi or another European automobile to figure out why the check engine light is on. Here are the most common reasons for the dashboard’s check engine warning.
Faulty Catalytic Converter
One of the most important parts in your exhaust system is the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter converts toxic materials found in your Audi’s exhaust into water or carbon dioxide before they are released from the tailpipe. The check engine light will come on if the catalytic converter is malfunctioning and you may also have excessive heat coming from underneath your Audi.
Faulty Engine Control Unit
A faulty engine control unit can also turn on the check engine light. This unit is your Audi’s main computer chip. It receives information from the various system sensors and controls the balance of air and fuel in the combustion chamber. The engine control unit is going bad, you may also notice problems with your engine misfiring, or your Audi’s engine may shut down and refuse to restart.
Loose Fuel Cap
The fuel Is designed to seal off the gas tank so fuel does not evaporate out of it. If your Audi’s check engine light turned on while you were leaving the service station, it’s possible you didn’t screw the fuel cap on tightly. Check it to make sure it is creating a seal over the gas tank.
Malfunctioning MAF Sensor
The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of outside air flowing into your Audi’s engine. If it gets too dirty, which can happen over time, it will malfunction and you will end up with the check engine warning. Cleaning the MAF sensor usually solves the problem.
Malfunctioning O2 Sensor
The oxygen sensor keeps track of your Audi’s oxygen levels in the exhaust. The average lifespan of an O2 sensor is generally anywhere between 60,000 miles and 90,000 miles. When the O2 sensor malfunctions, the check engine light comes on.
Transmission Problems
You may also end up with the check engine warning if your Audi is experiencing transmission problems. Aside from the warning, you may notice that the Audi is not shifting gears properly or you may have problems getting the Audi into gear.
Vacuum Leak
An engine vacuum leak fills the engine with air and upsets the delicate balance of air and fuel in the combustion chamber. When this happens, the check engine light will turn on and you will have problems with your Audi’s engine performance.
Worn Spark Plugs
Finally, worn spark plugs or problems with the spark plug wires can also turn on the dashboard’s check engine light. Replacing the plugs resolves the problem.
RSW European Automotive Repair in Greenbrook Township, NJ, is your one-stop shop for all of your European automobile service and repair needs. Call us today if your check engine light is on.