Car Hesitates to Start and Check Engine Light

When your car hesitates to start and the check engine light is on, it can be a frustrating and confusing experience. There are many potential causes for this problem, and it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common causes of car hesitation and check engine light, and we will provide some tips on how to fix the problem.

Causes of Car Hesitation and Check Engine Light

There are many potential causes of car hesitation and check engine light. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Spark plugs: Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in your engine. If the spark plugs are worn or fouled, it can cause the engine to hesitate and misfire. This can also lead to the check engine light being illuminated.
2. Fuel filter: The fuel filter traps dirt and debris from the fuel before it enters the engine. If the fuel filter is clogged, it can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine, which can cause hesitation and stalling.
3. Fuel pump: The fuel pump is responsible for pumping fuel from the gas tank to the engine. If the fuel pump is failing, it can cause the engine to hesitate or stall, especially when the fuel tank is low.
4. Ignition coil: The ignition coil is responsible for providing the spark plugs with the electricity they need to ignite the air-fuel mixture. If the ignition coil is failing, it can cause the engine to hesitate and misfire.
5. EGR valve: The EGR valve is responsible for recirculating exhaust gases back into the engine. If the EGR valve is stuck open, it can cause the engine to hesitate and stall, especially when the engine is idling.

Troubleshooting Car Hesitation and Check Engine Light

If your car is hesitating to start and the check engine light is on, the first step is to troubleshoot the problem. Here are some tips on how to troubleshoot car hesitation and check engine light:

1. Check the spark plugs: Remove the spark plugs and inspect them for wear or fouling. If the spark plugs are worn or fouled, they should be replaced.
2. Check the fuel filter: Locate the fuel filter and inspect it for dirt and debris. If the fuel filter is clogged, it should be replaced.
3. Check the fuel pump: Listen for the fuel pump to turn on when you turn the ignition key to the “on” position. If you do not hear the fuel pump turn on, it may be failing.
4. Check the ignition coil: Inspect the ignition coil for any cracks or damage. If the ignition coil is cracked or damaged, it should be replaced.
5. Check the EGR valve: Inspect the EGR valve for any carbon buildup. If the EGR valve is clogged with carbon, it should be cleaned or replaced.

Fixing Car Hesitation and Check Engine Light

Once you have identified the cause of your car’s hesitation and check engine light, you can begin to fix the problem. Here are some tips on how to fix car hesitation and check engine light:

1. Replace the spark plugs: If the spark plugs are worn or fouled, they should be replaced. This is a relatively simple repair that can be done at home with basic tools.
2. Replace the fuel filter: If the fuel filter is clogged, it should be replaced. This is also a relatively simple repair that can be done at home with basic tools.
3. Replace the fuel pump: If the fuel pump is failing, it should be replaced. This is a more complex repair that may require the assistance of a mechanic.
4. Replace the ignition coil: If the ignition coil is cracked or damaged, it should be replaced. This is a relatively simple repair that can be done at home with basic tools.
5. Clean or replace the EGR valve: If the EGR valve is clogged with carbon, it should be cleaned or replaced. This is a more complex repair that may require the assistance of a mechanic.

Conclusion

If your car is hesitating to start and the check engine light is on, it is important to troubleshoot the problem and fix it as soon as possible. By following the tips in this article, you can diagnose and fix the problem yourself, saving you time and money.