How to Deal with the Exhaust Gas Warning Light?
3 Answers
Start and turn off the vehicle three times in a row, or disconnect the negative terminal of the engine battery, wait for 30 seconds, and then reconnect it. After completing these steps, check if the engine warning light on the dashboard is still on. If the warning light remains on and the vehicle cannot start after being turned off, you should call for a tow truck. If the vehicle can still be driven but exhibits severe shaking, lack of acceleration power, or other symptoms, it is recommended to stop driving immediately. This not only prevents further damage to the engine but also ensures personal safety. Here is additional information: Engine Exhaust System: The illumination of the engine exhaust system warning light is often caused by damage to the oxygen sensor in the three-way catalytic system or poisoning of the catalytic converter due to poor fuel quality in the country. If this light comes on while driving, immediately reduce speed and proceed to the nearest service station for inspection and repair.
I've worked in an auto repair shop for eight years, and the exhaust gas warning light is the most common issue I've encountered. There are three main causes: first, fuel quality problems, where using low-quality gasoline leads to incomplete combustion; second, sensor failures, particularly the oxygen sensor detecting abnormal emissions; and third, exhaust system blockages, especially severe carbon buildup in the catalytic converter. Here's how to handle it: first, fill half a tank with 95-octane gasoline and drive for a few dozen kilometers—if it's a fuel quality issue, the light will turn off by itself. If it's still on, check if the fuel cap is loose, as this can trigger a fuel vapor leak alarm. If that doesn't work, use a diagnostic tool to check the fault code. If the oxygen sensor is faulty, replacing it costs around 500. A clogged catalytic converter is much more troublesome—a cleaner can handle minor carbon buildup, but severe cases require replacement, costing up to three or four thousand. Don't delay, as excessive emissions can damage the engine.
Last week my car’s exhaust warning light suddenly came on, which gave me quite a scare. I immediately looked into it and found that troubleshooting should be done step by step: First, check for simple issues like a loose fuel cap causing vapor leakage—just tighten it properly. Next, consider the quality of the fuel recently added; try switching to a reputable gas station and take a highway drive. If the light remains on, the trouble code will likely point to the oxygen sensor—a mechanic can pinpoint it in five minutes with a diagnostic tool. In my case, it was a catalytic converter alert, which took two cleanings to fix, mainly due to carbon buildup clogging the exhaust path. I’ve learned my lesson now: I regularly add fuel system cleaner to prevent carbon deposits and change the oil more frequently—prevention is much cheaper than repairs. Also, avoid stomping on the accelerator when the light is on, as it can increase engine strain.
