by Kevin Albinowski
Will it pass a state inspection? What do I have to do, can I just have it shut off or something? Well you may hear as many different things to do, as there are reasons for that nasty little light to be on for. I will give you some valuable information you can take to the bank.
First, let’s understand what this light is all about. It’s called many things but it is a Check Engine Light (or CEL), or called a Service Engine Light, SEL to the trade. This light is meant to light up if your engine is running poorly enough that it will damage your catalytic converter, and of course send pollutants into the atmosphere. It may also come on when you have any of these problems: a bad spark plug, wire, air leak, malfunctioning catalytic converter, mass air-flow meter, oxygen sensor or engine air temperature sensor. These are some common items. The on-board computer in today’s vehicles holds lots of information for the technician to analyze.
The first thing we do is access the vehicle computer codes that may be set to aid in directing us to the problem areas. These codes are by no means always the answer to a problem, but they help the technician and guide him to a proper and thorough analysis of your systems. If someone is able to just pull the codes, this does not mean that is the failing component. I have seen this many times over and over again. Parts are changed based only on the code reference shown. The vehicle owner only has part of the whole picture about the vehicle systems.
Another question…if someone was to clear the codes without repairing the underlying problem, that light will come on again just as soon as the computer runs a system check once or twice. Don’t forget why that warning light comes on in the first place, catalytic converters can be very expensive. Last and very important, don’t wait until the last few days before your inspection expiration. You’ll be pressured into repairing it on the spot, and today, many folks don’t always have the money to do this. So if your CEL or SEL is on, make an appointment early enough to comfortably complete the necessary repairs.
• Kevin Albinowski
President: Keystone Tire & Auto Repair Inc.
http://keystonetireauto.com/, http://www.caresforcars.org/
Kevin@keystonetireauto.com 631-957-8473
