Easy Solutions for a Check Engine Light & Passing Your Emissions Test

That dreaded “Check Engine Light.” It comes on as if to taunt you, begging you to try and guess why it’s lit. With most modern vehicles, there are dozens of possible causes for a check engine light. Some of them are simple to fix, and some of them are much more serious and difficult to correct. In all cases, it’s important to understand why your check engine light is on and make sure there isn’t a serious problem with your car.

Here are some of the common causes and fixes for a check engine light: 

• Loose gas cap: As simple as it may sound, a loose gas gap is a very common cause for a check engine light. If the pressure in your tank isn’t correct, your car’s diagnostic computers can mistake your poorly-tightened or faulty gas cap for an engine problem. The solution is to try tightening your gas cap, or if that fails, replace it with a new one. Doesn’t get much easier than this.
• Faulty oxygen sensor: Another common engine issue that can cause the check engine light to come on is a faulty oxygen sensor. This sensor measures the amount of unburned fuel in your exhaust system. It’s important to replace your oxygen sensor when it is no longer working properly to save fuel and protect your exhaust system from soot build-up and excessive pollution.
• Plugged catalytic converter: The catalytic converter is a critical component in your exhaust system and is responsible for turning carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. When it isn’t functioning properly, excess pollution or back-pressure in your exhaust system can register as a check engine error that will turn the light on your dash on. The only solution is to replace your catalytic converter.
• Spark plugs and wires: As these important components get old, they can fail to create a sufficient spark for correct engine operation. Fortunately, changing your plugs and wires is easy. You can choose OEM-equivalent spark plugs and wires or opt for higher-performance versions that give you a little more power and will last for longer than cheaper options.

If you’re asking, “Why is my check engine light on?”, verify the different points we’ve mentioned and make the repairs to clear the light. If you can’t determine why your check engine light is on or would like to learn more about our different engine and fuel treatment products contact us here at Rislone for more information. Specifically, we recommend the following products to help clear a check engine light before you take your car in for service:

• Rislone Cat Complete Fuel, Exhaust & Emission System Cleaner. One of our most innovative and bestselling products when it comes to clearing a stubborn check engine light (CEL) or if you need to pass a state-mandated emissions (smog) test.
• Rislone Engine Treatment (p/n 4102 if you want the concentrated version, or 100QR if you prefer the whole quart) – the legend. This is what put Rislone on the automotive map. Used by car clubs, race teams, and enthusiasts everywhere, this is our most popular formulation.
• Rislone Complete Gasoline Fuel System Treatment (p/n 4700, or 4740 for diesel cars and trucks) – six additives in one bottle. The most comprehensive and powerful fuel system treatment you can buy from any brand. Use once every 5K miles. If your check engine light is coming from an underlying fuel system issue, this is the product you want.