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A Handy Guide to Check Engine Lights

Close up on a check engine warning light

What Does Your Check Engine Light Mean?

First things first, the moment you notice a check engine light on your Nissan’s dashboard, don’t panic. Oppose the popular belief that not every check engine light indicates a serious engine or powertrain issue. Most of the latest models trigger a check engine light even if the vehicle has a minor problem, alerting the driver before it aggravates into a serious issue. With all that, if you want to learn more about the check engine light, our experts here at Bourgeois Midland Nissan have prepared a handy guide that clears up any doubts you may have, simplifying the whole process for you, keeping stress out of your fun and safe drives. 


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Why Are You Getting a Check Engine Light? 

Before panicking about a check engine light being on, you need to diagnose the problem behind it, because, as said above, a turned-on check engine light doesn’t always mean a serious car issue. In most cases, it also means: 

  • Loose or damaged gas cap
  • Failing catalytic converter
  • Faulty oxygen sensors 
  • Emission control system errors 
  • Low battery voltage
  • Failing oil pump or oil deposits 
  • Poor fuel and air compressor 
  • Malfunctioning mass airflow sensors
  • Worn-out or damaged ignition coils and spark plugs

How Can You Turn Off the Check Engine Light? 

There are a number of ways through which you can get rid of the on check engine light. These are also potential solutions to minor vehicle problems. This includes:

  • More often than not, the check engine light serves as a reminder, not a warning. It’s a reminder to keep up with your vehicle’s regular maintenance. By staying up to date with your Nissan service and maintenance, you can prevent the check engine light from becoming a cause for concern.
  • Non-compatible aftermarket parts and accessories can also trigger the check engine light if they do not function properly or comply with your vehicle’s systems. Try replacing them with OEM parts to enjoy proper operation. 
  • This may sound basic, but the next time you fill up on gas, make sure you check the gas cap and seal it properly, as a loose gas cap is also a reason why you can get a check engine light on your system. 
  • There’s a possibility that the check engine light is on due to a minor issue in your car’s electrical system, so make sure to check the systems, including the built-in sensors and radars, to avoid the engine light popping up.
  • Invest in a quality code reader, which is a vehicle diagnostic tool that checks the engine light and sends a report to your Nissan’s system, helping you figure out what could be the potential problem causing the light.

Book a Service Appointment at Bourgeois Midland Nissan

Need help with a check engine light? Get in touch with the experts at Bourgeois Midland Nissan to fix the problem and help you hit the road stronger and more confidently. You can simply call us to schedule a service appointment with our experts. Meanwhile, visit our service centre online to learn more about the various certified Nissan services we offer at our dealership.