Engines

Check engine lights, running rough, failed smog test, noises? Bring it in to our ASE certified technicians for an honest evaluation.

Nobody wants to see a check engine light come on, it can be due to something small, but it could also mean a larger problem with your engine, and either way, it means you should get it checked out.

We fix anything under the hood, alternators, exhaust manifold, starters, water pumps…you name it, we fix it.

It's important to take your car to a certified mechanic when you see your check engine light turn on, leaving a problem for later could cause serious problems for your vehicle down the road.

Warranty: Saddleback Smog & Auto 12 Months/12K Mile warranty, guaranteed!

At Saddleback Automotive we’ve worked on our fair share of engines. Our suggestion is when you see your engine light turn on, don’t ignore it. There is no need to risk additional damage to your engine.

What could be causing that light to turn on?

Loose Gas Cap

You might get lucky, that light might just indicate that you need a new gas cap for you car, an easy fix. The gas cap creates a tight seal on your fuel system, creates pressure within the fuel tank, and keeps harmful fumes from escaping.

If you don't replace it in a timely manner you could lose fuel via evaporation, meaning more frequent trips to the gas station and more money out of your pocket.

Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is part of your exhaust system which converts harmful fumes into less harmful carbon dioxide, if this part has been left unmaintained, it could trigger your check engine light.

If you don't address this problem on time you might not pass your next California emissions test, required for registration, your car may run at a higher temperature, and you may experience poor performance and poor gas mileage.

Spark Plugs

The part that creates a spark to ignite the fuel/oxygen in your engine, creating the combustion it uses to run.

If faulty spark plugs are not fixed in a timely manner they will lead to poor performance and gas mileage, and could cause damage to ignition coils and oxygen sensors, and could clog your catalytic converter.

Common Engine Sensor Issues

Oxygen Sensor

This sensor measure the amount of un-combusted oxygen in your exhaust emissions.

If you don't replace it on time your car could suffer from lower gas mileage, burning more fuel than necessary. A faulty sensor left unfixed for too long could also damage your spark plugs or catalytic converter, leading to further repairs.

Mass Airflow Sensor

This sensor measures the amount of air going into your engine, which helps it determine how much fuel is necessary for it to run sucessfully.

If this problem goes unfixed, it could lead to damage to your spark plugs, oxygen sensors, or catalytic converter, and will reduce performance and gas mileage.

Automotive Services in Costa Mesa & Newport Beach

The above are just a few of the potential issues that could be causing your check engine light to turn on. No matter big or small, it is always best to handle potential engine issues as soon as they arise.