Should I Be Worried If My Check Engine Light Comes On?

Your check engine light can be frustrating—it comes on without warning, and suddenly, you’re left wondering what’s wrong. Is it a quick fix, or is your car trying to tell you something more serious? While some causes are, others can lead to more significant problems if left unchecked.

This warning light isn’t something to ignore. It’s your car’s way of signaling that something needs attention, and taking action early can prevent expensive repairs down the road. Knowing what might be causing it and when to get it checked can help you stay ahead of potential issues.

Why Does the Check Engine Light Turn On

Your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system constantly monitors the engine, emissions, and other key components. When it detects a problem, the check engine light turns on. The tricky part is that the same light can appear for something as simple as a loose gas cap or as serious as an engine misfire.

A solid check engine light typically signals a non-urgent issue, like a failing sensor or emissions-related problem. Your car may still drive fine, but it’s best to get it checked soon.

A flashing check engine light, however, means a serious issue—like an engine misfire—that could cause major damage. If you see a flashing light, pull over as soon as possible and avoid driving until the problem is diagnosed.

Common Reasons Your Check Engine Light Comes On

Loose or Faulty Gas Cap

If your check engine light turns on right after you’ve refueled, the problem could be as simple as a loose or cracked gas cap. Your fuel system is pressurized, and if the cap isn’t sealing properly, it can trigger a warning. Tightening the cap or replacing it should resolve the issue.

Oxygen Sensor Failure

Your car relies on oxygen sensors to monitor the fuel-to-air ratio in the engine. When a sensor fails, the engine may burn too much or too little fuel, leading to reduced gas mileage and increased emissions. Ignoring a faulty sensor for too long can cause damage to the catalytic converter, turning a simple fix into an expensive repair.

Spark Plug or Ignition Coil Issues

If your car feels sluggish, misfires, or struggles to accelerate, worn-out spark plugs or ignition coils could be the problem. These components are responsible for igniting the fuel in your engine. When they fail, the engine runs poorly, fuel economy drops, and you risk long-term damage.

Mass Airflow Sensor Malfunction

A failing mass airflow sensor can cause rough idling, hesitation, and stalling. This sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and adjusts fuel injection accordingly. A dirty air filter can sometimes contribute to mass airflow sensor problems, so checking and replacing the filter regularly can help prevent this issue.

Catalytic Converter Problems

Your catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions and helps your car run efficiently. When it starts to fail, you may notice sluggish performance, dark exhaust smoke, or a strong sulfur smell. A damaged catalytic converter can lead to overheating and increased fuel consumption, making it crucial to address the issue quickly.

When to Take Action

Not every check engine light means you need to pull over immediately, but some situations require quick action.

If your check engine light is solid and the car runs normally, schedule an inspection soon. You may be able to drive for a while without immediate consequences, but delaying repairs can make things worse over time.

If the light is flashing or the car feels rough, struggles to accelerate, or makes strange noises, it’s time to stop driving and get help immediately. Driving with a severe issue could cause engine failure or expensive repairs.

Mountain Tech Will Fix Your Check Engine Light

Ignoring a check engine light could mean minor issues turn into expensive repairs. Our professionals can perform a full diagnostic check, pinpoint the issue, and provide the right solution. Whether it’s a sensor, an emissions problem, or a more serious concern, we’ll make sure your vehicle stays reliable and road-ready.

Is your check engine light flashing or causing concern? Our professionals at Mountain Tech in Oregon City, OR, will find the problem and get you back on the road safely. Contact us today to schedule your service!

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Why Does My Car Have a Burning Smell on The Long Downhills?

September 26, 2025

Driving downhill for an extended period puts unique demands on your vehicle, especially when it comes to braking and engine performance. If you’ve ever noticed a burning smell while descending a steep grade, it can be concerning. Sometimes the odor is harmless, but in other cases, it signals that your brakes, transmission, or other components are overheating. Knowing what causes these smells and how to address them can help you prevent damage and drive more safely. Brakes Overheating on Long Descents The most common source of a burning smell during downhill driving is overheated brakes. When you ride the brakes continuously, friction builds up between the brake pads and rotors, producing intense heat. This heat can cause the pads to emit a sharp, acrid odor as the material begins to break down. In extreme cases, overheated brakes can lead to brake fade — a condition where your braking power is reduced because the pads and rotors are too hot to function properly. If you notice a burning smell accompanied by reduced stopping ability, pull over safely and allow the brakes to cool before continuing. To prevent this, use engine braking whenever possible. Downshift to a lower gear to let your engine help control speed rather than relying entirely on the brake pedal. This reduces stress on your braking system and keeps temperatures in check. Transmission Fluid Overheating If your car has an automatic transmission, long downhill drives can sometimes overwork the transmission and cause its fluid to overheat. Transmission fluid helps cool and lubricate internal parts, but when it gets too hot, it can produce a distinctive burnt odor. This is more likely if you’re carrying a heavy load or towing while descending a steep grade. An overheating transmission can lead to significant wear if ignored, so if you notice a persistent burning smell combined with gear slipping or delayed shifting, have the system inspected as soon as possible. Burning Smells From the Clutch For vehicles with manual transmissions, a burning smell on downhills may come from an overheated clutch. This happens if you ride the clutch pedal or keep partial pressure on it while trying to control your speed. The friction between the clutch disc and flywheel generates heat, which produces a noticeable odor. To avoid clutch overheating, fully engage or fully release the pedal rather than “feathering” it. Downshifting properly and letting the engine handle more of the braking can also help reduce stress on the clutch. Engine Oil or Coolant Leaks Sometimes the burning smell isn’t related to the brakes or transmission at all. Engine oil or coolant can leak onto hot engine components, such as the exhaust manifold, where it burns and produces strong odors. An oil leak typically creates a thick, bitter smell, while burning coolant produces a sweet, syrupy scent. If the smell continues even after normal driving, or if you see smoke under the hood, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected. Ignoring leaks can lead to overheating, reduced engine performance, and costly repairs. Worn or Contaminated Brake Pads Even when you’re braking properly, worn or low-quality brake pads can overheat more easily on steep descents. Some pads use materials that produce stronger odors when hot, especially if they’ve absorbed contaminants like oil or grease. Replacing them with high-quality pads designed for your driving needs can minimize these smells and improve braking performance. How to Prevent Burning Smells on Downhills A few simple driving habits can make a big difference when it comes to avoiding overheating and burning odors: Use lower gears to take advantage of engine braking and reduce reliance on your brakes. Avoid riding the brakes for long stretches; apply firm, short braking instead. Check your brake system regularly to ensure pads, rotors, and fluid are in good condition. Inspect for leaks if burning smells persist after normal driving conditions. These steps reduce strain on critical systems and help maintain control during extended downhill driving. Expert Brake and Transmission Care at Mountain Tech Inc. If you’ve noticed a burning smell while driving downhill, let the team at Mountain Tech Inc. in Oregon City, OR, inspect your vehicle. Our technicians can determine whether the odor comes from overheated brakes, transmission fluid, the clutch, or leaking engine fluids, and we’ll address the issue before it leads to bigger problems. Schedule an appointment with Mountain Tech Inc. today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your vehicle is ready for every climb and descent.