Engine Light Flashing and Car Losing Power
Causes
There are several potential causes for an engine light flashing and a car losing power, including:
- Spark plug or ignition coil failure: This can cause the engine to misfire, which can lead to a loss of power and an illuminated engine light.
- Fuel injector failure: A faulty fuel injector can prevent the engine from getting the fuel it needs, which can also lead to a loss of power and an engine light.
- Air flow sensor failure: The air flow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine, and a faulty sensor can cause the engine to run rich or lean, which can lead to a loss of power and an engine light.
- Oxygen sensor failure: The oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust, and a faulty sensor can cause the engine to run rich or lean, which can lead to a loss of power and an engine light.
- Catalytic converter failure: The catalytic converter helps to reduce emissions, and a faulty catalytic converter can restrict exhaust flow, which can lead to a loss of power and an engine light.
Symptoms
In addition to an illuminated engine light and a loss of power, other symptoms of engine light flashing and car losing power may include:
- Rough idling
- Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
- Knocking or pinging noises from the engine
- Increased fuel consumption
- Decreased fuel economy
Diagnosis
To diagnose the cause of engine light flashing and car losing power, a mechanic will typically:
- Read the trouble codes stored in the car’s computer
- Inspect the spark plugs and ignition coils
- Inspect the fuel injectors
- Inspect the air flow sensor
- Inspect the oxygen sensor
- Inspect the catalytic converter
Treatment
The treatment for engine light flashing and car losing power will depend on the underlying cause. In some cases, the problem can be fixed by simply replacing the failed component. In other cases, more extensive repairs may be necessary.
Prevention
There are a few things you can do to help prevent engine light flashing and car losing power, including:
- Regular maintenance: Keeping up with regular maintenance can help to prevent many problems, including engine light flashing and car losing power.
- Use high-quality fuel: Using high-quality fuel can help to keep your engine running smoothly and prevent problems.
- Avoid aggressive driving: Aggressive driving can put a lot of stress on your engine and lead to problems.
Conclusion
Engine light flashing and car losing power can be a serious problem, but it is one that can usually be fixed. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to have your car diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
