Why is the engine warning light constantly on in the new Regal?
2 Answers
The engine warning light may illuminate due to the following 7 main reasons: Sensor malfunction: This includes sensors such as coolant temperature, crankshaft position, air flow, intake air temperature, and oxygen sensors. When these sensors are damaged, have poor contact, or experience signal interruption, the vehicle's ECU cannot accurately obtain engine data, triggering the warning light. Fuel/oil quality issues: Failure to use fuel and engine oil as specified by the manufacturer may cause engine wear, leading to warning light activation. Poor fuel mixture combustion: This can cause engine carbon buildup or knocking. When detected by oxygen sensors and reported to the ECU, the warning light activates. Causes include spark plug failure, ignition coil issues, fuel pump malfunction, or fuel line blockage. Turbocharging problems: Issues with intake boost pipes or turbochargers (most commonly turbocharger damage) can trigger the light. Symptoms may include oil leaks, excessive oil consumption, power loss, metallic noises, or blue/black exhaust smoke. Intake system issues: Air intake problems may lead to engine pipe blockage, potentially causing the warning light. Dirty air filters or lack of regular cleaning can cause intake issues. Exhaust system problems: Exhaust faults (often involving the rear oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, or exhaust camshaft bearings) may activate the warning light. Common causes include using leaded gasoline, improper lubricant additives, physical damage to the catalytic converter, or fuel system malfunctions. Anti-theft system failure: Malfunctions in the electronic anti-theft system or mismatches between the anti-theft controller and engine ECU can prevent normal engine operation and trigger the warning light. When the engine warning light illuminates, follow these steps: 1. First check if the engine operates normally. If there's shaking, smoke, etc., avoid restarting - especially if the red warning light is on. 2. If the engine starts, turn it off for 5-10 minutes. Then without pressing the brake, press the start button or turn the key halfway to ON position (without depressing clutch). After 5-10 seconds of self-check, observe if the warning light turns off. 3. If the light remains on, visit a service center promptly. Technicians can use diagnostic tools to read trouble codes and perform targeted repairs.
The constant illumination of the engine malfunction light in the new Regal is mostly due to the vehicle's computer detecting an anomaly and triggering an automatic alert. Common issues include a failed oxygen sensor, which monitors exhaust oxygen levels—inaccurate readings can cause an air-fuel ratio imbalance and light up the warning; a clogged catalytic converter, which triggers an alarm if emissions fall below standards; aged spark plugs or faulty ignition coils, leading to misfires; and turbo system failures in turbocharged engines, which can also cause the light to come on. Although rare, software bugs in the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may occasionally require updates to resolve. Using low-quality gasoline can accelerate carbon buildup, worsening the problem, and prolonged neglect may damage internal engine components, increasing repair costs. It is recommended to promptly use an OBD scanner to read the fault codes and identify the root cause, then seek professional repair at a 4S shop. Additionally, maintaining regular maintenance can help prevent such issues.
