Asheville Check Engine Light

Asheville Check Engine Light

When the check engine light (also referred to as CEL) comes on, it means one of the car’s systems isn’t working the way it should—whether that’s the air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, or emissions control. The car might seem fine at first, but that warning light means there’s a problem that needs to be checked before it turns into a bigger one. For drivers in Asheville, check engine light service is available nearby at Jim Cook Chevrolet in Marion.

If the light stays on but doesn’t flash, the issue is often something small, like a loose gas cap or a faulty sensor. A steady warning light indicates that the car has detected a problem somewhere. Don’t ignore it. Delaying bringing your vehicle to the Jim Cook Chevrolet Service Center for CEL testing & diagnosis in Asheville only increases the likelihood of damage to more expensive components over time.

A flashing light is a different story. When the check engine light blinks while the engine is running, the problem is urgent. This often points to a misfire or a fuel system failure, which allows raw fuel to pass through the exhaust. That unburned fuel can overheat and damage the catalytic converter, one of the most expensive parts to replace. If the light starts flashing, it’s best to find a safe place to stop, shut off the engine, and call for roadside assistance.

There’s a long list of possible reasons that can trigger the check engine light. These are some of the most common:

• A missing, loose, or cracked gas cap: A poor seal can release fuel vapor and throw off system pressure, which often sets off the CEL.
• Faulty oxygen sensor: This part monitors the exhaust and helps regulate the amount of fuel the engine uses. If it fails, performance and efficiency drop.
• Failed ignition coil or spark plugs: A weak spark causes misfires, which make the engine run rough and can lead to long-term damage.
• Mass airflow sensor malfunction: When this sensor fails, the engine may stall, hesitate, or burn fuel inefficiently.
• Catalytic converter failure: If the converter can’t process exhaust gases correctly, emissions rise and power drops.
• Fuel injector issues: A clogged or leaking injector disrupts the fuel supply, causing rough idling, loss of power, or hard starts.

The moment that warning light switches on, your car's computer saves a snapshot of everything happening at that exact second—how hot the engine was running, the RPMs, and whether you were accelerating or coasting. These clues are helpful for mechanics trying to track down intermittent problems.

Our team at Jim Cook Chevrolet begins by plugging in a scanner to read what your car's computer recorded. Those codes point us in the right direction, but they're just the first piece of the puzzle. From there, we dig deeper—testing sensors with meters, examining connections for corrosion, and checking mechanical parts by hand. We won't suggest any repairs until we've found exactly what's causing the trouble.

If the check engine light comes on, bring the vehicle in and let us take a look. We’ll diagnose the problem and discuss the next steps.

To schedule a visit, call the service department or use the form on our website. Jim Cook Chevrolet is located at 1075 N Main St in Marion, a short drive from Asheville.