Red Rock Auto Center Blog

The check engine light can be an unsettling sight for any driver. While it doesn’t always signal an emergency, it’s important to address it sooner rather than later. At Red Rock Auto Center, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Sedona, AZ area. Here are five common reasons your check engine light might come on. Oxygen Sensor Failure The oxygen (O2) sensor measures the level of unburned oxygen in your car’s exhaust and sends this information to the car’s computer. This helps to ensure the engine runs efficiently and reduces emissions. A faulty oxygen sensor can cause your engine to run inefficiently, potentially causing issues with other components like the catalytic converter. Catalytic Converter Issues The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions by converting pollutants into less harmful gasses. Over time, it can become clogged or damaged, especially if the car hasn’t been regularly maintained. A faulty catalytic converter can impact your vehicle’s performance and fuel-efficiency, while also leading to higher emissions. Mass Air Flow Sensor Problems The mass air flow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps regulate the fuel-air mixture. A faulty MAF sensor can cause poor fuel economy, rough idling, and even engine stalling. If you’re experiencing poor engine performance and the check engine light is on, the MAF sensor might be the culprit. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap A loose or damaged gas cap is one of the simplest issues that can trigger the check engine light. The gas cap seals the fuel system. If it’s not properly secured, fuel may evaporate before your engine gets the chance to run on it. Spark Plug or Ignition Coil Issues Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine, while ignition coils provide the spark that ignites the plugs. If either of these components is worn or damaged, it can cause misfires, reduced power, and poor fuel-economy. Replacing spark plugs and coils according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule can help keep your engine running smoothly. Check Engine Light Diagnostics & Repair in Sedona, AZ For check engine light repair in Sedona and the surrounding area, contact Red Rock Auto Center at (928) 451-7431. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

When the engine starts to show signs of trouble, it’s crucial to address the issue right away to avoid more expensive repairs. By paying attention to certain warning signs, you can prevent minor problems from becoming major headaches. At Red Rock Auto Center, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Sedona area. Here are five common signs of engine trouble that should be addressed ASAP. Illuminated Check Engine Light This warning light can indicate a variety of issues, from a loose gas cap to more severe engine problems. While not all causes of the check engine light are dire, it’s important to have your car’s computer scanned for error codes to determine the root of the problem. Ignoring the light could lead to more extensive damage. Unusual Noises Engines naturally make noise, but certain sounds can be a red flag for engine trouble. If you hear knocking, tapping, or grinding noises coming from under the hood, it’s a sign that something may be wrong with the engine’s internal components. Knocking sounds are often related to issues with the engine bearings, while grinding could be caused by worn-out parts. If you notice strange engine noises, it’s essential to get your vehicle checked as soon as possible. Loss of Power If your vehicle is struggling to accelerate or feels sluggish, it could be a sign that your engine isn’t performing as it should. A loss of power can stem from a variety of issues, including problems with the fuel system, clogged air filters, or malfunctioning spark plugs. Any noticeable drop in engine performance should be checked by the mechanic. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke The color of the exhaust smoke can give clues as to the specific issue. Black smoke usually indicates that too much fuel is being burned. Blue smoke typically means that the engine is burning oil, which could indicate worn valve seals or piston rings. White smoke is often a sign of coolant leaking into the engine, which may indicate a blown head gasket. Engine Overheating If your temperature gauge consistently rises into the red zone, or if you notice steam coming from under the hood, your engine is overheating. This could be due to a variety of factors, including low coolant levels, a failing water pump, or a malfunctioning thermostat. Overheating can cause serious damage to your engine, so it’s essential to pull over safely and contact the mechanic. Engine Repair in Sedona, AZ When you need auto repair in Sedona and the surrounding area, contact Red Rock Auto Center at (928) 451-7431. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!