The check engine light does not have to be an automobile’s grim reaper. Yes, it can indicate a serious problem with a fleet vehicle that will be expensive to repair, but often, the light turns on at the first sign of trouble. If you have the vehicle inspected right away, you may save money in the end. Fleet Truck & RV Repair can run a diagnostic check to find out why the check engine came on. Here are some of the possible reasons, all of which are fixable on your fleet automobile.
Air Filter
If the vehicle’s air filter is severely clogged, you may end up with a check engine warning. It’s important to change the air filters when needed to boost engine and fuel efficiency. All of your fleet vehicle engines need air to operate, and air filters prevent dirt and contaminants from getting into the engines.
Catalytic Converter
Okay, we admit it. This reason for the check engine light could be a bad one. The catalytic converter takes carbon monoxide and changes it to carbon dioxide. If the converter is failing, the check engine light will come on. Your fleet drivers may also smell rotten eggs or sulfur.
Mass Airflow Sensor
Going back to the topic of air for a moment, the mass airflow sensor (MAF) measures air intake. Specifically, the MAF keeps track of the air in the combustion chamber to ensure the air/fuel mixture is correct. A failing sensor will trigger a check engine warning light.
Oxygen Sensor
You might wonder why you have an oxygen sensor when you have an MAF but the oxygen sensor has a different job. Rather than measuring the air in the combustion chamber, the oxygen sensor keeps track of the amount of oxygen in your fleet vehicles’ exhaust.
Spark Plugs
The spark plugs don’t have their own dashboard warning light, so the check engine light will come on if they’re in trouble. Usually, they are either misfiring or worn when the check engine light comes on. This can be fixed with an adjustment or plug replacement.
Additional Triggers
Finally, a loose gas cap, a problem with the fuel system, and a problem with the exhaust system can all turn on the fleet vehicle’s check engine light. At the first illumination, bring the vehicle into our shop for a diagnostic check. This helps prevent further damage and saves you money.
We are Fleet Truck & RV Repair, and our shop is located in Great Falls, MT. Call us today to schedule an appointment for your fleet vehicle.