Check Engine Light After Car Sitting
If you’ve ever come back to your car after it’s been sitting for a while and found the check engine light on, you’re not alone. This is a common problem, and there are a few different things that could be causing it.
1. Loose Gas Cap
One of the most common causes of a check engine light after a car has been sitting is a loose gas cap. When the gas cap is not tightened properly, it can allow fuel vapors to escape, which can trigger the check engine light.
To fix this problem, simply tighten the gas cap until it clicks. If the check engine light does not go off after a few minutes, you may need to have your car’s emissions system checked.
2. Bad Spark Plugs
Another common cause of a check engine light after a car has been sitting is bad spark plugs. Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel in your car’s engine, and if they are not working properly, it can cause the check engine light to come on.
To fix this problem, you will need to replace the spark plugs. This is a relatively simple repair that can be done by most do-it-yourselfers.
3. Faulty Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor is responsible for monitoring the amount of oxygen in your car’s exhaust. If the oxygen sensor is not working properly, it can cause the check engine light to come on.
To fix this problem, you will need to replace the oxygen sensor. This is a more complex repair that should be done by a qualified mechanic.
4. Catalytic Converter Problems
The catalytic converter is responsible for reducing harmful emissions from your car’s exhaust. If the catalytic converter is not working properly, it can cause the check engine light to come on.
To fix this problem, you will need to replace the catalytic converter. This is a major repair that should be done by a qualified mechanic.
5. Other Causes
There are a number of other things that can cause a check engine light to come on after a car has been sitting. These include:
- Faulty sensors
- Electrical problems
- Computer problems
If you are not sure what is causing the check engine light to come on after your car has been sitting, it is best to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic.
Conclusion
If you see the check engine light on after your car has been sitting, don’t panic. There are a number of things that could be causing the problem, and most of them are relatively easy to fix. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can diagnose and fix the problem yourself in most cases.
