What are the general causes of the engine malfunction light turning on?
2 Answers
The reasons for the engine malfunction light turning on include: 1. Sensor issues; 2. Maintenance problems; 3. Fuel quality issues; 4. Poor mixture combustion; 5. Air intake problems. If the car's air filter is dirty and not cleaned regularly, causing blockage, it will trigger the engine malfunction light. When the engine malfunction light is on, it cannot be manually reset. Usually, it needs to be diagnosed and cleared at a 4S shop using a fault detection device. Precautions for engine maintenance: 1. Regularly change the engine oil and filter; 2. Regularly maintain the air filter; 3. Regularly replace the fuel filter; 4. Regularly maintain the radiator mesh of the water tank; 5. Regularly replace the spark plugs.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered the engine warning light several times, which always worries me. The most common causes include oxygen sensor failure—it monitors exhaust composition and triggers an alert when readings become inaccurate. Another possibility is a loose fuel cap, causing the system to detect minor leaks and illuminate the light. Last time my warning light came on, I tightened the cap at a gas station but it didn't help. At the repair shop, they found the mass airflow sensor was clogged with dust, affecting air intake—cleaning it fixed the issue. Additionally, clogged fuel injectors or worn spark plugs can also trigger the light. My advice: never ignore the warning light. First check basic components, and if that doesn't work, visit a professional repair shop promptly. Prolonged neglect may lead to major problems like catalytic converter damage. For safety, scanning trouble codes when parked is the most reliable approach to avoid roadside breakdowns.
