When your car’s internal computer identifies a problem with the engine or transmission, it turns on the check engine light. The reasons for a check engine light turning on can range from something minor like a loose gas cap to something more serious like a faulty catalytic converter. It could even be a sign of internal engine failure. Ignoring the problem can turn a potentially quick fix into a costly and time-consuming repair.

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Why is your check engine light on?

Common minor and major reasons for a check engine light to turn on include:

• Loose gas cap
• An internal problem in the engine
• An issue with or even theft of the catalytic converter
• Faulty spark plug, spark plug wires, or ignition coils
• Malfunctioning oxygen sensor
• Damaged mass airflow sensor
• A bad tank of gas

What to do when your check engine light comes on

Once you notice your check engine light has come on, pay attention to how the car is driving. Does something feel off? If so, reroute yourself to the nearest mechanic to get the car checked out. If the car seems to be running fine, you can check a few things on your own before heading to the mechanic.

There are a couple of simple solutions if your check engine light came on after getting gas. A loose gas cap is one of the most common reasons for the check engine light to go on. Check that your gas cap is screwed on securely and that it’s in good condition.

If you have a tank of bad gas in the car, your check engine light may come on. For example, if your vehicle is designed to run on premium gas (octane grade 91 to 94), the engine may struggle to run on regular gas (octane level 87). You can safely solve this problem by having a professional drain your gas tank. If you must drive until the tank is empty again, this may not cause severe damage, as long your car doesn’t show signs of overheating or poor engine performance.

Do you suspect something else caused your check engine light to turn on? The most foolproof method to check the engine light is to read the diagnostic code in the car’s internal computer. If you have experience working with cars, you can do this at home with an OBD-II scanner. Otherwise, head to your local service station where a mechanic can read the diagnostic code and determine the correct fix.

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• Maintains engine lubrication. Imagine all the moving parts, pistons, valves, and other engine parts moving at high rates of speed under the hood of a car. These components create heat and will wear down the engine dramatically without proper oil lubrication. Make sure to refer to the owner’s manual to see what specific weight and grade of oil the vehicle requires and ensure it is kept at the recommended fill volume.
• Cools engine components. Moving parts that lack proper lubrication create friction, which in turn creates heat. Maintaining clean and sufficient amounts of oil is the perfect solution to prevent too much friction and over-heating of the engine.
• Removes engine wear particles and sludge. Dirt particles are deadly to engines. Over time, dirt can cause corrosion and decrease the life of an engine. Also as time goes on, oil breaks down and turns to “sludge.” The name of the game is to keep the engine clean. Routine oil and filter changes help remove particles and sludge and keep engines at peak condition.
• Improves gas mileage. Poor engine lubrication can lead to increased fuel consumption, so make sure there is enough clean oil in the engine. The U.S. Department of Energy says that with routine changes and the right kind of oil, gas mileage can be improved over time by 1-2%. That doesn’t sound like much of an improvement, but for the average car, it leads to savings of an entire gallon of gas for a year!
• Promotes vehicle longevity. Plain and simple, routine maintenance makes your vehicle last longer. Buildup from dirty oil robs a vehicle’s fuel economy and power and makes internal components work harder. An engine that works too hard will end up having more problems down the road as well as a shorter life span. According to Kelley Blue Book, car valuation increases at resale time if regular maintenance has been upheld.
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Hydroplaning

Ultimately, hydroplaning happens when the vehicle’s tires lose all traction due to water on the road. Rain can mix with oil residue on the surface of the road and create slippery conditions. Hydroplaning usually occurs when the vehicle is traveling at speeds over 35 mph. The tires lift away from the road, and it becomes difficult to control the car. 

In the event of a hydroplane, it’s important that you don’t brake or turn suddenly, as it could throw your car into a skid. Hold the wheel as firmly as you can and don’t steer in any direction other than straight ahead. Slowly take your foot off the gas until the car slows and your steering becomes normal again. If you need to brake, do it gently and with a pumping action. If you have anti-lock brakes, you should be able to brake normally.

Tire features that affect the possibility of hydroplaning include:

• Tread pressure
• Tread depth
• Tread pattern

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• When you request assistance, a service provider will be dispatched to assist you and take care of your Emergency Road Service need.
• If your coverage is verified, you will not bear the up-front financial burden as Leo’s Towing will be billed directly for basic services. Note: You may incur out-of-pocket costs for replacement items such as tires, gas, and batteries.
• If you do not have Coverage H (Emergency Road Service), you will pay for the services at a competitive rate negotiated by Leo’s Towing. This rate will usually be less than what is available in the market. (Examples of services can include the cost to deliver fuel)

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Oceanside Towing Directions

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We understand that many towing companies are only limited to towing vehicles. At Oceanside Towing Leo’s Towing and Auto Repair we’re incredibly proud of our versatility. We’ve put in a substantial amount of effort to ensure that we’ll be able to provide you with a great service no matter what type of automobile crisis you’re facing. We have carefully researched the automobile industry and have compiled a list of the common problems that consumers face. Then, we have put together a comprehensive array of services to ensure we would be able to accommodate each and every client. We can help with basic problems, such as running out of gas or dealing with a flat tire.

Contact our Oceanside Towing office at (760) 757-6383 

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Directions to our Oceanside Tow Yard https://g.page/r/CYaGaDX_xSapEBM

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