Is the Emission Malfunction Indicator Light Issue Serious?
2 Answers
Generally, the emission malfunction indicator light illuminates due to substandard fuel quality, leading to incomplete combustion of the engine's air-fuel mixture. It is advisable to visit a repair station for inspection and maintenance as soon as possible. Below is relevant information: 1. Emission Malfunction Indicator Light: The primary function of the engine emission malfunction indicator light is to monitor the status of the engine's air-fuel mixture through the oxygen sensor. When the air-fuel mixture changes and causes excessive exhaust emissions, the control unit records the fault and illuminates this indicator light to alert the driver. The driver can continue driving, but fuel consumption may increase, and driving comfort may deteriorate. 2. Causes of Illumination: The most common causes include a dirty throttle body, which should be cleaned every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers; carbon buildup on the valves and fuel injectors, which requires cleaning of the intake and fuel systems every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers; additionally, the engine must be maintained strictly according to the manufacturer's requirements, with regular replacement of the engine oil, oil filter, air filter, and fuel filter.
I saw the malfunction indicator light come on, and my first reaction was that this is quite a serious issue. It usually indicates a problem with the exhaust system, such as a faulty sensor or catalytic converter issues. As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I've encountered similar situations before: when the light comes on, the car feels underpowered, fuel consumption noticeably increases, and sometimes there's even a strange odor. Long-term neglect could lead to engine damage, doubling the repair costs. The risk of sudden stalling on the highway is significant, affecting safe driving. I recommend immediately checking the oxygen sensor and exhaust pipes—don't delay, take it to a professional shop to avoid turning a minor issue into a major problem. Regular emission tests can also help prevent similar issues from occurring.
