Why Is the Check Engine Light in the Salvage Vehicle On?

Salvage cars are the ultimate rides for those not willing to spend more but are in the dire need of a vehicle. It is always advised to perform a thorough inspection of the vehicle before making the final purchase. There are times when a decent looking vehicle gives the buyer a not-so-good feel because of the check engine light that can be noticed from a distance. This could happen to any of us, whether we are at a vintage or jeep wrangler auction. It is therefore better to clarify the doubts so that we don't end up making a bad purchase decision.

Why is the Check Engine Light On?

Check engine light often frustrates a car owner because it doesn't provide any insight about the problem with the vehicle. Emission control malfunction is one of the common reasons behind the check engine light popping up in the car. A check engine light might be a signal for a major or a minor repair. Let's look at the possible malfunctions indicated by the light:

The Gas Cap Isn't Tight Enough

Many vehicles monitor the pressure build-up inside the gas tank and if the gas cap isn't tight, the check engine light pops up on the dashboard. An effective option that you have is to try to tighten up the gas cap.

An Indication of Bad or Low Octane Fuel

Some cars are too sensitive to misfires and to display the check engine light even if there's a slight hiccup in the engine. There are cars that need a higher octane fuel to run efficiently. These vehicles function without any glitch on any fuel but even a small misfire (specifically when the engine is cold) may turn on the check engine light.

When the Spark Plug Wires go Bad

Tiny cracks on the spark plug wires over time may result in little bursts of electricity and engine misfire. The check engine light might pop up in this situation. When you are buying a salvage vehicle, you might come across this problem. Ensure that you take the help of a professional to resolve the issue before you start driving the car.

There may be many more reasons that may turn on the check engine light, thus, it is always better to get a technician along to inspect the vehicle when you buy a salvage car. It is important to understand that you are buying a salvage vehicle so everything might not be in as good condition as expected and a blinking check engine light isn’t always an indication of an expensive repair.