What’s This About?

About the Light

If your vehicle’s dashboard light illuminates, you may wonder, “What’s this about?” While the check engine light is not typically an emergency, and you can safely drive your car to our shop, it warns of problems impacting the fuel or exhaust system. The EPA mandated that all new automobiles sold in the United States after 1996 be equipped with a second-generation onboard diagnostic system (OBD-II). Its purpose is to more effectively address pollution caused by driving. Unlike the first-generation system, which was brand-specific, the more modern version generates a universal trouble code regardless of make or model. Easier identification facilitates quicker repair and reduced emissions. Let Harry’s Auto Repair in Pleasanton, California, no matter what you drive, help you with CEL diagnostics.

Potential Triggers

Many triggers can cause your vehicle’s check engine light to come on. Although we’ll need to connect our computerized equipment to your car’s OBD port to obtain a trouble code and then use our expertise to pinpoint the exact issue, we can highlight some potential underlying causes for the warning lamp. The problem may be as severe as a failed catalytic converter, a costly replacement component. However, this is not a frequent concern. Generally, the culprit is simpler and much less expensive to fix. The problem is often a bad sensor. The mass airflow sensor detects the amount of air entering the engine, adjusting the fuel flow according to how much air is available for combustion. The oxygen sensor measures the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust. Sometimes, aged spark plugs with an improper gap or an electrical issue with the transmission cause the light to come on. A poorly fitting gas cap that breaches the sealed fuel system can trigger the lamp.

Repairs You Can Trust

When your car’s dashboard warning light is on, you can count on the ASE-certified technicians at Harry’s Auto Repair for accurate CEL diagnostics and reputable repairs. As a family-owned business, we’ve served area motorists for over 35 years. We hold the highest rating from AAA and stand behind our work with a solid two-year/24,000-mile warranty. We also provide the extras that make your service visit great. If your check engine light illuminates, don’t panic. Bring your vehicle to our team for prompt, reliable help with CEL diagnostics and repair.