by 
The Curious Bag
-
On-board diagnostics (OBD) systems have been a part of new cars since the 1980s. Your check-engine light is part of this system. The light is turned on when your OBD finds a problem it can't solve by itself.
Emissions
The check-engine light comes on when a problem that could effect a car's emissions is detected. This emissions testing has been a requirement since 1996, according to ConsumerReports.org.
Oxygen Sensors
Oxygen sensors monitor how much oxygen is in your exhaust, according to MobilOil.com. If excess oxygen is constantly detected, your check-engine light may turn itself on.
Check Your Battery
Your car's battery provides all electricity to the car. If it's not providing correct voltage levels, it could cause your check-engine light to switch itself on.
Records
When your check-engine light comes on, your car's OBD will make a record of the problem it can't fix. Your mechanic can use this to determine what needs to be done to your car.
Fun Fact
The next step in OBD systems is to eliminate traditional tailpipe emissions testing, according to ConsumerReports.org. The check-engine light would turn on when there was any emissions problem and then relay a message to state officials, who in turn would notify the motorist of a deadline to have the problem fixed.
Source:
More Information:
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC