What causes the service light to indicate an engine fault?
2 Answers
The following are specific reasons and solutions for the engine fault light being on: 1. Carbon buildup in the car causing ignition difficulties. At idle, it may also be accompanied by slight shaking, which can be resolved by cleaning the throttle body and fuel injectors. 2. Weak spark plug ignition energy. Spark plugs that have not been replaced after the maintenance cycle can lead to severely reduced ignition energy, causing misfires. 3. Insufficient fuel pressure in the low-pressure fuel system. Low fuel pressure in the low-pressure fuel system directly results in the engine requiring a second ignition. Specifically, check the fuel pressure regulator, fuel pump, fuel filter, and internal fuel lines. 4. Battery depletion. You will need to jump-start the car using another vehicle or battery. 5. Incorrect engine timing. Mismatched engine timing can occur, and in some engine models, replacing the alternator belt may cause the timing to skip, leading to ignition difficulties.
I've been driving for decades and have encountered the Service light indicating engine issues several times. Common causes include sensor problems, such as a faulty oxygen sensor that monitors exhaust, affecting fuel combustion efficiency, which may cause the car to shake or emit black smoke. It could also be due to low oil pressure, ignition system failure, or emission blockage. Once the light comes on, don't rush to drive on the highway. First, pull over to check if there are any other warning lights on the dashboard and whether the oil or coolant levels are normal. I recommend finding a safe place to park, using your phone to contact a professional repair shop for a tow and inspection, because neglecting minor issues can lead to major problems like engine damage, and towing fees are much cheaper than repairs. Regular maintenance and avoiding aggressive driving can help reduce such failures.
