Check engine lights are unique in that they aren’t rooted in one cause. They can indicate a number of problems.
But what happens if the check engine light keeps coming back on?
If you have a repeat check engine light, you should have it looked at by an auto repair shop or automotive professional.
The driver of a Chevrolet Cruze brought their car to Steve’s Auto Repair to have the problem addressed.
Figuring out the cause of a repeat check engine light
The check engine light was off when our technician started working on the Chevy Cruze. However, he found a stored code of P0017, which indicates that the camshaft and crankshaft aren’t lined up correctly. This problem is common when the timing belts are worn or not installed correctly. They can stretch due to age, and may prompt the code and some running problems.
After removing the upper cover, the technician saw what appeared to be the original belt. It was cracking a bit and there were some small chips on the edge. The Chevrolet Cruze has more than 105,000 miles on it, but it’s recommended that the timing belt and spark plugs on this car be replaced at 97,500 miles.
The timing belt ensures that the crankshaft and camshaft are operating at the same rate. When the belt should be replaced depends on the vehicle. It may be suggested every 60,0000 miles for some, and every 100,000 for others. The technician noticed that the timing gears were off, which would be enough to set the timing code.
To prevent potential engine damage that could occur if the belt breaks, we recommended replacing the timing belt. It’s also a good idea to change the camshaft seals and crankshaft front oil seal, and install a new tensioner and idler pulley. New spark plugs are needed, if they haven’t already been replaced.
Putting in a new water pump and having a coolant fluid exchange performed were suggested, as well. Your vehicle should get a coolant fluid flush every 30,000 miles – depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations – if there are thermostat problems, or the radiator or water pump are replaced.
Check engine light causes
As we mentioned earlier, a solid check engine light turns on for many reasons. Here are some of them:
- Engine sensor issues
- Loose gas cap
- Problems with the ignition system
- Low oil
- Spark plugs going bad
- Catalyst system not working correctly
- Evaporative system issues
- Engine misfire
- Circuit malfunctioning
- Bad ignition coils
- Coolant system problems
Why you should get your vehicle checked out
Other connected codes can pop up the longer you wait, so we suggest having the light checked sooner rather than later.
If the check engine light is flashing, you shouldn’t drive the vehicle at all. That’s because a blinking light indicates an engine problem. Catalytic converter damage may occur if you don’t have it addressed.
Because the potential culprits vary, diagnostic testing is needed to track down the problem. We start ruling out possibilities by performing a visual inspection and then conducting a code scan.
Our technicians look into common issues with the vehicle they’re working on and check out Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs).
Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located near Manassas, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.