Driving an Audi can be a delightful experience, however, this fun can turn into fright in a split second. One of the most alarming sights for any driver is the check engine light flashing on the dashboard. It is your car’s way of telling you that something has gone wrong within the vehicle. Before we look at ways you can diagnose a check engine light and some simple fixes you can use to clear its illumination, let’s quickly find out what the check engine light is.
The check engine light (CEL) is a part of your car’s onboard diagnostics system (OBD). When it lights up, it means the car’s computer has detected a problem with the engine or in the emissions system. A check engine light may not point to a specific problem when it comes on, therefore, it is important that you figure out what is going on yourself, with the help of a mechanic.
Common Reasons for Check Engine Light Illumination
The check engine light in your Audi can be turned on for many reasons and it all usually points to a problem that needs to be dealt with. Some of the reasons are the malfunctioning oxygen sensor that is very important for regulating the fuel mixture, the problems with the catalytic converter that reduces the harmful emissions, the faulty spark plugs or wires that cause misfires and poor performance, and the issues with the mass airflow sensor that affects the delivery of fuel. These problems that you may be facing can be solved immediately with effective diagnosis and repair to prevent the occurrence of more serious damage to your Audi.
Steps to Diagnose the Problem
- Check the Gas Cap: The first thing you should do is check the gas cap. Most times, a loose or damaged gas cap can be the cause of the check engine light. Check that it is tight and in good condition. If it is loose, tighten it and check if the light goes off after a few drives. If the cap is broken, change it to a new one. A broken gas cap can lead to the fuel vapors leaking out, which in turn can affect the car’s emissions system.
- Use an OBD-II Scanner: An OBD-II scanner can retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that are stored on your car’s computer. These codes can assist in the detection of the issue. You can buy a scanner or go to a mechanic who can do the scan for you. The scanner connects to a port under the dashboard and gets the codes that identify the problem. This is a very important step since it provides you with the particular details of what might be the problem with your car.
- Perform a Visual Inspection: Open the hood and look at the engine parts. Look for any obvious signs of damage, such as broken or corroded parts, loose wires, or leaks. The oxygen sensor, spark plugs, and wiring should not be forgotten. These are the common causes of the check engine light being on. Be on the lookout for anything that seems or feels odd or broken.
- Consult a Professional: If you are not able to figure out or solve the problem by yourself, then it is time to ask a professional. A skilled technician will have the tools and knowledge to find and fix the problem in a precise way. They can analyze the DTCs and do more tests if required. They will also be able to use the detailed repair manuals and technical service bulletins which can give them the necessary information about the problems of your car model.
Contact The Professional Audi Repair Shop In Hellertown
At JCL Automotive, our technicians are known as the most dependable experts in the Hellertown area when it comes to serving the most popular European cars and we offer 100% quality maintenance that makes sure you are always on the road with an Audi that you can trust. We have been doing a good job for Audi drivers in the area since 2005 and our service quality has not gone down till now.
If you have seen the annoying CEL on your Audi dashboard and you want to know why it has come on, you are in the right place. Our authorized mechanics will make sure that the problem is not only found but also repaired correctly. If you stay in Hellertown, PA, or the nearby cities, just call us on 484-851-3390 to reserve an appointment with our Audi experts.