2020 Buick Envision Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2020 Buick Envision: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2020 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 2020 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 first steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2020 Buick Envision?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Buick Envision, the first step is to assess the dashboard for any additional warning lights that may indicate a broader issue. Next, inspect the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Pay attention to any unusual noises or odors, as these sensory clues can help pinpoint the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II diagnostic scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer, providing specific insights into the issue at hand. If these initial steps do not lead to a resolution, it may be wise to consult a professional mechanic for further diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Buick Envision?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2020 Buick Envision, it can signal a range of common problems that are often manageable for DIY enthusiasts. One of the simplest issues to check is a loose gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapor leaks and is easily remedied by ensuring the cap is securely fastened. Another frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency and emissions; replacing this sensor can restore optimal performance. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or failures, may also trigger the light, indicating a need for inspection or replacement. Spark plug or ignition coil issues can lead to engine misfires, affecting overall performance, while a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, necessitating a check. Other potential causes include EGR valve malfunctions, thermostat failures, vacuum leaks, and ignition system problems, all of which can be diagnosed with basic tools and a bit of research. By understanding these common issues, DIYers can take proactive steps to troubleshoot and resolve the check engine light concerns in their Buick Envision.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Buick Envision?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Buick Envision, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that your vehicle's engine or emissions system may be experiencing issues that could range from minor to severe. Ignoring this signal can lead to more significant problems, including costly repairs and diminished vehicle performance. 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 issues at hand. Addressing these codes promptly can prevent further damage, such as engine misfires or overheating, which may pose safety risks while driving. Additionally, neglecting the check engine light can adversely affect fuel efficiency and increase harmful emissions, making it crucial to act swiftly. By diagnosing and resolving the underlying issues, you not only ensure the longevity of your vehicle but also maintain its optimal performance. Therefore, if the check engine light comes on, take the time to investigate and address the problem as soon as possible.

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