What are the reasons for the engine malfunction light to come on?
2 Answers
The reasons for the engine malfunction light to come on are: 1. Sensor issues: water temperature, crankshaft position, air flow, intake temperature, oxygen sensor; 2. Engine maintenance problems; 3. Fuel and oil quality issues; 4. Poor combustion of the air-fuel mixture, which can be caused by faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel pump, or clogged fuel lines; 5. Intake problems; 6. Dirty throttle body; 7. Poor operation of the exhaust gas recirculation system; 8. Clogged exhaust pipe; 9. Low cylinder pressure. The function of the engine is: to convert the thermal energy of gasoline into mechanical energy by expanding the gas after combustion in a sealed cylinder, pushing the piston to perform work.
The engine malfunction indicator light coming on is quite common. Over the years while helping friends with car repairs, I've encountered many cases. Common causes include: oxygen sensor failure affecting emissions testing; catalytic converter clogging or damage leading to poor exhaust flow; ignition system issues like aging spark plugs or coil failures; as well as fuel system problems such as clogged fuel injectors, intake manifold leaks, or loose wiring connections. Some simple issues can be checked yourself - like first verifying if the fuel cap is tightened properly, since a loose cap can cause vapor leaks that falsely trigger the warning light. However, most situations require professional diagnostic equipment to accurately read trouble codes. Never ignore it, otherwise fuel consumption may increase or even damage core engine components. When the light comes on, I recommend visiting a repair shop promptly to avoid roadside breakdown risks. For those with strong DIY skills, purchasing a diagnostic tool is an option, but always remember: safety first!
