What are the reasons for the constant flashing of the engine warning light in the Haval H6?
2 Answers
Common reasons for the flashing engine warning light in the Haval H6 include the following: 1. Oxygen sensor failure The oxygen sensor monitors whether the air-to-fuel ratio is normal. It transmits the air/fuel ratio entering the cylinders to the computer, which then adjusts the engine's operation accordingly. If the oxygen sensor fails, the computer cannot obtain accurate data, and the engine may not operate properly. In severe cases, fuel efficiency can drop by 50%. If not repaired or replaced promptly, it can lead to significant losses. Oxygen sensor failure may occur due to the use of gasoline with a high alcohol content or lack of timely maintenance. 2. Loose fuel cap If the fuel cap is not tightened properly, a sensor will relay this information to the computer, causing the engine warning light to illuminate. Simply tightening the fuel cap can resolve this issue. This is a straightforward check, so if the engine warning light comes on, the fuel cap should be inspected first. If this doesn’t work, other causes should be investigated. Sometimes, the fuel cap may be damaged, and tightening it won’t help, requiring replacement or repair. A loose fuel cap accounts for about 7% of engine warning light issues, making it a relatively common cause. 3. Catalytic converter failure The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system and converts toxic exhaust gases into non-toxic emissions. Besides issues with the catalytic converter itself, problems like exhaust valve failure or irregular spark plug operation that cause abnormal or discontinuous exhaust temperatures can lead to catalytic converter failure. Since catalytic converters are expensive, it’s best to rule out other factors before considering replacement. However, ignoring repairs due to cost or minimal driving impact is unwise, as a faulty catalytic converter emits toxic gases harmful to health. 4. Spark plug or ignition coil issues The ignition coil converts low-voltage electricity into high-voltage electricity for the spark plugs. Both operate in high-temperature environments and can fail due to aging. Symptoms may mimic catalytic converter failure. Since catalytic converters are costly, spark plug or ignition coil issues should be checked first. 5. Spark plug wire problems If the engine runs noisier than usual at idle, the spark plug wires may be faulty. When aged or corroded, they deliver unstable high-voltage electricity, making it difficult for the engine to maintain stable operation, especially at idle. Symptoms resemble those of spark plug or ignition coil issues. Replacing spark plug wires can be labor-intensive, but not repairing them leads to continuous fuel efficiency losses, making early repairs advisable. 6. Mass airflow sensor (MAF) failure The MAF sensor relays data on air pressure and humidity entering the cylinders to the computer, working in coordination with the oxygen sensor. Without it, the engine cannot adjust its operation based on external conditions. The MAF sensor is expensive, but delaying replacement can reduce fuel efficiency by 25%. Symptoms include unstable idling, difficulty starting, and sometimes affecting the throttle valve’s normal position. 7. Aftermarket car alarm system issues Improper installation of aftermarket car alarm systems can disrupt the system, such as draining the car battery due to continuous discharge, preventing startup. Incorrect model selection, wiring errors, or non-standard installation can cause problems. In such cases, professional assistance is needed to replace or reinstall the system and repair any damage caused by improper installation. Therefore, investing in proper installation is crucial. 8. Vacuum hose problems Gasoline slowly evaporates, which is unavoidable but costly. A serious issue arises when evaporated gasoline turns into toxic compounds harmful to health. Normally, gasoline vapors from the fuel tank are collected in a container with activated carbon and then sent back to the cylinders via a vacuum hose to be burned during normal engine operation. If the vacuum hose is damaged, this system fails. If the engine warning light is on or a strong gasoline odor is detected near the car, the vacuum hose may be faulty. Replacement isn’t expensive, but failing to do so will result in failed emissions tests. 9. Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve maintenance The EGR valve redirects hot exhaust gases back to the combustion chamber to heat the fuel, improving combustion efficiency and reducing nitrogen oxide emissions. If faulty, the engine may idle unevenly or fail to start. EGR valve issues are relatively common. 10. Battery aging/depletion Cars have a 12V battery that powers electrical systems and lighting besides starting the engine. With increasing electrical loads, including features like refrigerators, the battery’s demand grows. It requires charging from the alternator; otherwise, stored energy depletes quickly. Additionally, batteries have a limited lifespan, typically requiring replacement after six years. If problems arise prematurely, check the alternator’s functionality or for electrical leaks.
Last time I drove my Haval H6 for an outing, the engine warning light suddenly started flashing, which really scared me. I immediately pulled over to check and found that misfiring is the most common issue, caused by worn-out spark plugs leading to a cylinder not working properly - replacing them solved the problem. Other possible causes include damaged ignition coils, clogged fuel injectors, or faulty oxygen sensors. Never ignore a flashing warning light, otherwise the car may shake, experience poor acceleration, and even damage the catalytic converter. The Haval H6 is a great SUV to drive, but its engine system requires regular maintenance - I change the spark plugs every 20,000 kilometers to prevent similar troubles. Safety comes first when driving - the fastest solution is to have a professional shop read the trouble codes for diagnosis, don't try to fix it blindly yourself.
