Emissions Light: What It Means & How To Fix It

It’s critical to fix any issues as soon as the check emission system light illuminates. If the problem is a blocked catalytic converter, your turbocharger might blow out; the car might go into safe mode to prevent excessive pollution, and you might get ticketed by the authorities or both.

The check emission system indicates a malfunctioning emission control system in your car. A malfunctioning oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, or ERG valve are just a few potential causes of this.

What Causes a Check Emission System Warning Light

The check emission system warning light can illuminate for a variety of reasons. Some of the most typical causes are as follows:

  • faulty oxygen sensor
  • a damaged catalytic converter
  • leaky ERG Valve
  • leaky exhaust manifold
  • soiled air filter

The most frequent reason for the check emission system warning light is a damaged oxygen sensor. The oxygen sensor is in charge of keeping track of the oxygen content of the exhaust. It will turn on the check emission system warning light if it detects that the oxygen levels are too high.

Oxygen sensor O2 in the exhaust pipe.

A malfunctioning catalytic converter is another typical reason for this warning light. The catalytic converter is in charge of changing dangerous gases into safe ones. It may malfunction and turn on the warning light for the check emission system.

An exhaust leak might also activate the warning light for the check emission system. A damaged exhaust pipe or slack clamps are a couple of the possible causes of exhaust leaks.

Lastly, a dirty air filter can activate the check emission system warning light. As air enters the engine, the air filter is in charge of keeping it clean. If it’s dusty, it may limit airflow and turn on the warning light for the check emission system.

How to Fix and Reset a Check Emission System Warning Light

You can fix and reset a check emission system warning light in a few different ways. Fixing the issue that’s generating the check emission system warning light is the best approach to resolve it and reset it.

For instance, if your oxygen sensor is damaged, you can swap it out for a new one. The same is true when replacing a damaged catalytic converter with a new one.

After you’ve corrected the issue, if the check emission system warning light is still on, there is probably something wrong with the emissions system itself. The best action is to take your car to a mechanic and have them examine the problem.

You must unplug the battery for roughly 30 seconds to reset the check emission system warning light. Both the computer and the light will be reset by doing this.

How Often Should I Get My Emission System Checked?

Exhaust emissions test.

It would help if you typically get your emission system examined every two years. However, this could change based on your car and driving style. You should contact your emission system read more frequently if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or dusty circumstances.

Is It Okay to Drive With the Check Emission System Warning Light On?

Driving is not advised while the check emission system warning light is illuminated. This is because of the possibility that the issue causing the light to come on could harm your car. The problem should be resolved as quickly as feasible.

Conclusion

When the check emission system warning light illuminates, you should take your car to a repair to have it looked at. Your vehicle could be damaged if you choose to ignore the issue.

Depending on the issue, different solutions will cost different amounts of money. Even so, it’s usually less expensive to address a minor issue than a major one. We hope this post has helped to clarify what it means to “verify emission system.”

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About Matthew Webb

Hi, I am Matthew! I am a dedicated car nerd! During the day, I am a journalist, at night I enjoy working on my 2 project cars. I have been a car nerd all my life, and am excited to share my knowledge with you!

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