What to Do When the Car's Exhaust Fault Light Comes On?
2 Answers
Solutions for when the car's exhaust fault light comes on: Start and turn off the vehicle three times, then start the vehicle again to observe if the exhaust fault light is still on. If it remains on, promptly take the car to a 4S shop for inspection and repair. 2. Poor fuel quality may require switching to higher-quality fuel. As one of the primary sources of air pollution, car exhaust contains a large amount of harmful substances, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, and solid suspended particles. The hazards of an emission system failure include: 1. Excessive carbon buildup; 2. Reduced safety during vehicle operation and shortened engine lifespan; 3. Engine overheating, leading to sintering or detachment of the three-way catalytic converter carrier and increased exhaust resistance; 4. Exceeding emission standards for harmful substances.
When I saw the exhaust fault light come on, I immediately remembered that this was something I often encountered during decades of driving. This light indicates a problem with the emission system, such as an aging oxygen sensor or a faulty catalytic converter. I would first slow down and drive smoothly, avoiding high speeds or sudden acceleration to prevent further engine damage. Then, I’d find a safe place to pull over and perform a quick check—looking for smoke or unusual smells from the exhaust pipe. If possible, I’d connect a diagnostic tool to the OBD port to read the trouble codes and pinpoint the issue. It’s best to drive to a reputable repair shop as soon as possible and not delay, as ignoring small issues can lead to more damaged parts and even affect annual inspections. I make sure to perform regular maintenance, like oil changes and filter checks, to prevent such problems. Always pay attention to dashboard warnings while driving—safety comes first.
