2018 Buick Envision Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2018 Buick Envision: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Buick Envision has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 Buick Envision has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2018 Buick Envision?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2018 Buick Envision, the first step is to visually inspect the vehicle for any obvious issues, such as a loose or damaged gas cap, which is a common culprit for triggering the light. If everything appears secure, the next logical step is to utilize an OBD-II diagnostic scanner. This tool connects to your vehicle's OBD port and retrieves specific error codes that can pinpoint the underlying problem. Understanding these codes is crucial, so consulting your owner's manual can provide insights into what the codes mean and suggest potential troubleshooting methods. If the check engine light is flashing, it indicates a more serious issue that requires immediate attention; in such cases, it's wise to reduce your speed and seek professional assistance. However, if the light remains steady and you are unable to diagnose the issue through these initial steps, consider reaching out to a qualified mechanic or dealership for further evaluation. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2018 Buick Envision?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2018 Buick Envision, it can signal a range of issues that are often manageable for DIY enthusiasts. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened or replaced if damaged. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which affects fuel efficiency and can be replaced with basic tools. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter may arise, often requiring more advanced diagnostics but can sometimes be identified through visual inspection. Worn or faulty spark plugs are also a typical cause, and replacing them is a straightforward task for those familiar with engine maintenance. Furthermore, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, and while it may require some technical knowledge to replace, it is a manageable project for many DIYers. Lastly, a failing ignition coil can lead to engine misfires, and while this may involve more intricate work, it is still within reach for those willing to learn. Addressing these issues promptly not only helps in resolving the check engine light but also ensures the vehicle runs efficiently, making it essential for any DIY enthusiast to be aware of these common problems.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light on a 2018 Buick Envision?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 2018 Buick Envision, it signals a need for immediate attention, as neglecting this warning can lead to serious consequences. The light may indicate a range of issues, from minor sensor malfunctions to significant engine problems that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring the light not only risks decreased fuel efficiency but can also escalate into costly repairs if the underlying issue worsens. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific problem. However, it’s essential to remember that while some issues may be simple fixes, others could require professional expertise. Therefore, addressing the check engine light promptly not only helps maintain your vehicle's longevity but also ensures your safety on the road.

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