What Causes the Engine Fault Light to Illuminate?
2 Answers
The reasons for the engine fault light illumination are: 1. Irregular maintenance; 2. Deteriorated engine oil; 3. Clogged air filter; 4. Dirty intake pipes; 5. Excessive sludge in the crankcase, clogged filters and oil passages; 6. Excessive carbon deposits in the gasoline filter, carburetor or fuel injector, and fuel supply lines; 7. Rust and scale in the engine radiator. The engine consists of two major mechanisms: the crank-connecting rod mechanism and the valve train mechanism, as well as five major systems: cooling, lubrication, ignition, fuel supply, and starting systems. Precautions for engine maintenance and repair: 1. Regularly change the engine oil and oil filter; 2. Maintain good crankcase ventilation; 3. Regularly clean the crankcase; 4. Periodically clean the fuel system; 5. Regularly maintain the radiator.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I've learned not to panic when the engine warning light comes on. Often, it's just a sensor issue—like an aging oxygen sensor affecting fuel efficiency and triggering the alert. Other common culprits include worn spark plugs causing incomplete combustion or a clogged fuel system making the engine work harder. I once had a catalytic converter blockage that lit up the light, and timely action saved me a lot of trouble. If the light flashes, pull over immediately to prevent engine damage; if it stays steady, drive slowly to a repair shop. I always recommend keeping a simple OBD scanner handy—reading the fault code helps pinpoint issues fast. Don’t slack on routine maintenance; regular oil and filter changes can prevent such problems. Don’t wait for major repairs to regret neglect. Remember, paying attention to this little light ensures safer, smoother drives.
