What does it mean when the engine emission fault light is on?
2 Answers
Engine exhaust system fault light on causes and solutions are as follows: 1. Engine false fault: Start and turn off the vehicle three times in a row, or disconnect the negative terminal of the engine battery, wait for 30 seconds, and then reconnect it. After performing the above method, check whether the engine fault light on the dashboard is still on. 2. Damage to the oxygen sensor in the three-way catalytic system or poisoning of the three-way catalytic converter caused by poor fuel quality in China. If this light comes on while driving, immediately reduce speed and drive to the nearest repair service station for inspection. 3. If the fault light comes on and the vehicle cannot start after turning off, this is usually due to a fuel pump or ignition device failure. Call a tow truck directly; if you can continue driving, but the vehicle experiences severe shaking, loss of acceleration power, etc., it is recommended to stop driving.
The check engine light came on in my car before, which turned out to be a false alarm due to a loose fuel cap, but later I found the oxygen sensor was also dirty. This light typically indicates an issue with the emission system, such as incorrect exhaust concentration detected by the oxygen sensor, a clogged or leaking catalytic converter, or a malfunctioning EGR valve. If left unaddressed, these problems can lead to increased fuel consumption, reduced power, and potential fines for excessive emissions. I recommend first checking if the fuel cap is loose. If the light remains on after restarting the engine, take it to a repair shop to read the specific fault code with an OBD scanner—don't delay to avoid minor issues turning into major repairs. Addressing it promptly saves hassle, makes your car more eco-friendly, and is easier on your wallet.