What are some of the most frequent causes of an illuminated check engine light?
Few things unsettle drivers more than seeing the check engine light suddenly appear on the dashboard. This warning signal can indicate anything from a minor glitch to a serious mechanical problem that requires immediate attention. While it’s tempting to ignore the light if the car still seems to run fine, doing so can lead to bigger—and more expensive—issues down the road. At Engine Masters Automotive, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Mesa, AZ area. Here are four of the most common triggers.
A Failing Oxygen Sensor
Your vehicle’s oxygen sensor monitors the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system, helping the engine run efficiently. When the sensor begins to fail, your engine may burn more fuel than necessary, leading to poor fuel-economy and increased emissions. Ignoring a faulty oxygen sensor can eventually damage the catalytic converter, turning a relatively inexpensive repair into a much more costly one.
Problems with the Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter plays a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions. If it starts to fail, you may notice decreased fuel-efficiency, poor acceleration, or a rotten egg smell from the exhaust. Because this component can be expensive to replace, it’s essential to fix underlying issues that may have contributed to the failure.
Malfunctioning Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils
Spark plugs and ignition coils work together to ignite the fuel-air mixture in your engine. When spark plugs wear out or ignition coils malfunction, the engine may misfire, run rough, or struggle to start. These issues often cause the check engine light to appear. Replacing worn spark plugs is a routine maintenance task, and catching ignition problems early can help you avoid more serious engine issues.
Issues with the Mass Air Flow Sensor
The mass air flow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine so the computer can adjust fuel delivery. When it becomes dirty or fails, your engine may hesitate, stall, or lose power. A bad MAF sensor can also harm fuel-economy and increase emissions. Replacing the sensor typically resolves the issue and restores proper performance.
Check Engine Light Repair in Mesa, AZ
For expert auto diagnostics and repair in Mesa and the surrounding area, contact
Engine Masters Automotive at
(480) 351-6068. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!












