BMW cars are incredibly intelligent and meticulously crafted machines. As a result, your BMW is equipped with various technologically-advanced systems to safeguard you and your vehicle against the adverse effects of severe components failure. The check engine light is one such system. Let’s discuss more about how the check engine light works and the types of component failures that can result in this warning light illuminating on your dashboard.
The Purpose of the Check Engine Light
The Check Engine Light (CEL), also known as Engine Management Light (EML), is a warning indicator found on the dashboard of your BMW. This light illuminates when more serious issues are detected within any of your vehicle’s systems or components that are connected to the engine and its exhaust system.
The CEL is connected directly to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) of your BMW, which is the vehicle’s main computer. As soon as the ECU detects an issue with one of the above systems, it sends out an error code and triggers the check engine light. The error code can then diagnose and repair the issue properly.
The severity of the problem determines a driver’s response to the CEL. Even if your vehicle appears to be operating correctly, you should reduce your speed and come to our certified repair center. You should pull over if the light illuminates red or if your vehicle does not appear to be safe. In that case, contact a tow service to bring your car to our repair facility.
Reasons Why the Check Engine Light (CEL) May Come On
Many factors can cause this essential warning light to illuminate. Here are a few of the most common reasons this may occur, how hazardous their impact might be to your car, and how you should handle it:
- Damaged Fuel Pumps: The fuel pump delivers pressurized fuel to the fuel injectors in the engine. If the fuel pump is damaged, it will not function appropriately, preventing the power from entering the machine correctly, resulting in rough running. As a result, the check engine light will be activated by the ECU, and your BMW engine is at a high risk of experiencing misfiring.
- Loose Fuel Caps: Drivers are most commonly guilty of this problem when distracted at the pump and do not correctly tighten their fuel cap. When the cap is loose, extra air can enter the tank and displace the pressure in the tank. Consequently, one of the many sensors in the car will detect a problem and alert the engine control unit. In general, this is the most common and easiest cause of the illumination of the check engine light and should be eliminated first.
- Worn Vacuum Hoses: The vacuum hoses are necessary to channel fresh air and exhaust around the engine to ensure optimum performance. The vacuum hose is made of rubber material, making them susceptible to breaking down due to the high temperatures inside a machine. This can eventually lead to cracks or deterioration. As a result, the engine’s sensors may report problems to the ECU because the precise balance of gases has been tipped, causing the check engine light to appear on the dashboard.
- Clogged Particulate Filters: The particulate filter is most commonly found on diesel-powered vehicles, although it is now introduced to gasoline-powered cars. As a result of combustion processes, particles such as soot are produced. The particulate filter is responsible for collecting these particles. Once the filter becomes clogged, soot will begin to settle within the engine and start to contaminate the delicate components. There is a pressing need to resolve this issue as soon as possible, as if the filter becomes damaged beyond repair, you are likely to face extensive costs.
Come to JCL Automotive in Hellertown for Expert Service
JCL Automotive has dominated the automotive repair market in the region for over ten years, as the largest independent provider of automotive services. Our service department is the best choice for maintaining the performance of your BMW.
We are pleased to offer Hellertown and nearby residents the services that you have come to expect along with many more! JCL Automotive also offers customers inspections and emissions certifications in Pennsylvania. Thanks to our certified mechanics and our staff’s capabilities, we expertly handle all of your BMW service needs. Call us today to schedule an appointment!