What a Check Engine Light Might Mean On A European Car?

Stephane Grabina • September 25, 2020

If you are driving a Mercedes or a BMW and dealing with a “check engine” light, then pay close attention to this. If you don’t, you should read on anyway so you’re better prepared for what could happen in the future. A check engine light is something that should be taken seriously (and we’ll explain # reasons why that it is).

A check engine light or sometimes a “maintenance required” light will pop on if there is something going on with your vehicle. In all likelihood, there’s a good chance that it may need to be checked out. Excluservice is staffed with knowledgeable mechanics in Rockville, MD that specializes in European cars.

If you have a check engine light on your European car, it might mean one of the following:

1.   A part is failing and needs replacement:  There are many issues that a vehicle can suffer that isn’t visible to the naked eye. Most of the stuff can happen under the hood and get worse if nothing is done on time. Your “check engine” light will let you know something if there is something under the hood that is failing and needs to be replaced.

It could be a faulty sensor, a bad spark plug, a failing catalytic converter, or something else. You won’t know for sure until you are able to scan it using an OBD scanner. Once you have one plugged in and note the codes included, you’ll be able to pinpoint the exact problem.

From there, you can take your vehicle to Excluservice to get it repaired. You get same-day repair on all parts and get a 3-year / 36,000-mile warranty. Not to mention, you can be able to get financing on your service if money is a bit tight at the moment.

We love our customers in the Washington, D.C. metro area and will make sure that we give you the best service and convenience possible, especially if you’re on a busy schedule.

2.   Your gas cap may be loose or missing:  We go to a gas pump regularly and fill up the take. After that, we drive off like usual. But your check engine light comes on soon after. Everything sounds fine under the hood but what could be going on?

Did you forget to replace the gas cap? If so, then you’ll need to screw it back on. If you left it on the roof and it fell off somewhere, you can easily get it replaced by going to a local auto parts store.

Gas caps will normally cost you $10 or thereabouts. Just make sure to replace it after you get gas next time.

3.   You may need new spark plugs:  Spark plugs don’t last forever. At some point, they’ll need to be replaced. Your “check engine” will gently remind you to do that.

You can replace them yourself since spark plugs are reasonably priced. But without them, it will be really hard to start the vehicle. Aside from failing parts, a check engine light will also indicate that it may be time to switch out the old with the new.

Remember that spark plugs must be changed every 20,000 to 40,000 miles on your European car.

GET YOUR EUROPEAN CAR INSPECTED NOW

If there is one more way to prevent a “check engine” light on your European car, it’s getting it inspected. Our ASE certified mechanics at Excluservice will check your car from the inside and out. If it needs repair, it can be done the same day you bring it in (and we’ll even throw in a free wash as well).

If your vehicle is being serviced, you can use one of our pre-inspected loaner cars for the commute to work or if you are running errands. We also offer free rides to and from the shop, if you request one. We are always happy to help our customers in the Silver Spring, MD area and surrounding communities.

Why wait for any problems to happen? Come get your European car inspected now by calling Excluservice at (301) 756-5757 or visit our location at 12224 Parklawn Dr. Rockville, MD 20852.

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