What to Do When the Engine Malfunction Light Comes On in a New Car?

[AdelynRose]

If the engine malfunction light comes on, you can follow these steps to address the issue: First, check whether the engine is running normally, such as if there is shaking, black smoke, or difficulty starting. If any of these issues are present, avoid restarting the engine. Note: If the light is red, do not restart the engine under any circumstances. If the engine is running normally and the car can be driven, take it to a service center as soon as possible to diagnose the problem. The service center can easily read the fault codes using a portable diagnostic tool and perform targeted repairs based on the fault information. If the engine is running normally, the owner can also try gently reconnecting various wiring harness connectors, as a loose connection may be the cause. Alternatively, repeatedly turning the key to the ON position may reset the light. Generally, the engine malfunction light may come on due to the following seven reasons: Sensor failure: Sensors such as the coolant temperature sensor, crankshaft position sensor, air flow sensor, intake temperature sensor, and oxygen sensor may become damaged, have poor contact, or lose signal transmission. When the car's ECU cannot accurately obtain engine data, the malfunction light will illuminate. Fuel or oil quality issues: If fuel or engine oil is not added according to the manufacturer's requirements, it may cause engine wear and trigger the malfunction light. Poor combustion of the air-fuel mixture: Poor combustion can lead to engine carbon buildup or knocking. When the oxygen sensor detects this and reports it to the ECU, the malfunction light will illuminate as a warning. Issues such as faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel pumps, or clogged fuel lines can cause poor combustion. Turbocharger problems: The intake boost pipe or turbocharger can also trigger the engine malfunction light. The most common issue is a damaged turbocharger, which may also cause symptoms like oil leaks, excessive oil consumption, reduced power, metallic noises, or blue/black smoke from the exhaust. Intake problems: If the car's intake system is compromised, it may lead to clogged engine pipes, and in severe cases, the malfunction light will illuminate. A dirty air filter that hasn't been cleaned regularly can cause intake issues. Exhaust problems: Exhaust system faults can also trigger the engine malfunction light. Common causes include faulty rear oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, exhaust camshafts, or bearings. The catalytic converter is the most frequent culprit, often due to the use of leaded gasoline, lead- or silicon-containing lubricant additives, physical damage, or fuel system issues. Anti-theft system failure: If the car's electronic anti-theft system malfunctions or the anti-theft controller is incompatible with the engine ECU, the anti-theft system may prevent the engine from operating normally and trigger the malfunction light.