What to Do When Your GMC Check Engine Light Comes On

SERVICE PARTS

If you’re a proud owner of a GMC vehicle, you know that the manufacturer takes great pride in creating reliable and dependable vehicles. Of course, even the most well-made machine can run into issues from time to time. One of the first indications that something isn’t quite right with your GMC is when the check engine light comes on.

When it comes to understanding what a check engine light could mean, you can consider it a flag that there is an issue somewhere in the vehicle’s powertrain system. However, this doesn’t necessarily indicate that something catastrophic has gone wrong and needs immediate attention. A range of problems can trigger a check engine light to come on – from something very minor like a loose gas cap to a more complex problem, like an issue with the catalytic converter.

If you’re driving an Acadia, Terrain, Yukon, Canyon or Sierra HD model and your GMC check engine light appears, the first step is to make sure that you’ve secured the fuel tank. It’s possible that the engine light will turn off once you’ve done this, but if it doesn’t, then the next step is to run a diagnostic scan or bring your vehicle in for service. Our professional mechanic can use a scanner tool to read any stored codes which will help them diagnose and repair the issue.

To reset any error codes, you have to access the Onboard Diagnostics (OBD) system interface. This can be done using a scan tool, which allows you to delete any stored diagnostic trouble codes and reset the GMC check engine light. If you don’t have access to a scan tool, schedule a appointment with us.

It’s important to note that the check engine light will stay on until the issue has been resolved, so it’s best to get your vehicle looked at as soon as possible. Driving your GMC with the check engine light illuminated can have negative effects on both fuel economy and vehicle performance, which is why it’s important to address any issues right away.

Why is my check engine light on GMC?

The check engine light on your GMC vehicle could be triggered by a myriad of factors. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a loose gas cap, which can be fixed by tightening it until you hear a click. At other times, it could be due to more serious issues such as a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, a faulty ignition coil or spark plug, a bad catalytic converter, or fuel injector issues. It could also be due to an issue with the vehicle’s emission system which is designed to reduce pollutants released into the environment.

In some cases, it could be an early indication of engine problems. Therefore, it’s imperative to not ignore this warning light. If your GMC check engine light stays on even after checking the gas cap, you should schedule a service appointment as soon as possible. There, a technician will use a special scan tool to read the diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle’s onboard computer system. These codes will provide insight into what part of the vehicle’s system is causing the check engine light to illuminate. Remember, addressing the issue promptly can prevent minor problems from escalating into major repairs.

Does check engine light come on for oil change ?

The check engine light may come on is if your vehicle is due for an oil change. 

How do you turn off the check engine light on a GMC Sierra 1500 ?

Read on to learn more and call us at (772) 919-4752