What Are the Methods to Eliminate the Engine Malfunction Light?

[LaMaddox]

When the engine malfunction light is on, you can follow these steps to address the issue: First, check whether the engine is running normally and if there are any issues such as shaking or emitting black smoke. If such problems exist, avoid restarting the engine. It is especially important not to restart the engine if the red warning light is on. If the engine can be started, turn it off and wait for 5-10 minutes. Then, without pressing the brake, press the start button once or turn the car key halfway to the 'on' position without depressing the clutch. The car will perform a self-check after powering on. Wait for 5-10 seconds and observe whether the malfunction light on the dashboard turns off. If the malfunction light does not turn off, visit a service station as soon as possible to identify the cause. The service station can use a portable diagnostic tool to read the fault code, obtain fault information, and perform targeted repairs. There are seven main reasons why the engine malfunction light may come on: Sensor malfunction: Sensors such as coolant temperature, crankshaft position, air flow, intake temperature, and oxygen sensors may become damaged, have poor contact, or experience signal interruption. When the car's ECU cannot accurately obtain engine data, the engine malfunction light will illuminate. Fuel or oil quality issues: If fuel or engine oil is not added according to the manufacturer's requirements, it may cause engine wear and trigger the malfunction light. Poor combustion of the air-fuel mixture: Poor combustion can lead to engine carbon buildup or knocking. When detected by the oxygen sensor and reported to the ECU, the malfunction light will illuminate as a warning. Issues such as faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel pumps, or clogged fuel lines can cause poor combustion. Turbocharger issues: Problems with the intake boost pipeline or turbocharger can also trigger the engine malfunction light. The most common issue is a damaged turbocharger, accompanied by symptoms like oil leaks, high oil consumption, reduced power, metallic noises, or blue/black smoke from the exhaust. Intake issues: If the car's intake system is compromised, it may lead to clogged engine pipes, and in severe cases, the engine malfunction light will illuminate. A dirty or uncleaned air filter can cause intake problems. Exhaust issues: Exhaust system faults can also trigger the engine malfunction light. Common causes include faulty rear oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, exhaust camshafts, or bearings. The catalytic converter is the most frequently affected component. Using leaded gasoline, lead- or silicon-based lubricant additives, physical damage to the catalytic converter, or fuel system issues can easily cause catalytic converter failure. Anti-theft system malfunction: If the car's electronic anti-theft system malfunctions or the anti-theft controller does not match the engine's electronic controller, the anti-theft system may prevent the engine from operating normally, and the engine malfunction light will illuminate.