2009 Chevrolet Aveo5 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
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60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5 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 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5 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 diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5, it's essential to start with straightforward diagnostic steps that can often resolve the issue without extensive mechanical knowledge. Begin by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or unusual readings, as these can provide clues about the underlying problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step in this process; by connecting it to your vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve specific error codes that pinpoint the issue. Make sure to document these codes, as they will be invaluable for further research or discussions with a mechanic. Additionally, check the levels of essential fluids like oil and coolant, as low levels can also activate the check engine light. Lastly, visually inspect the wiring and connections in the engine bay for any signs of damage or corrosion. If these initial steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic for a more thorough diagnosis. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and potentially save on repair costs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the simplest issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensuring it is secure is a good first step. If the gas cap is fine, the next common culprit is the oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency and emissions control. A malfunctioning sensor can lead to poor performance and should be inspected. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also cause the check engine light to illuminate, often indicating a more serious issue that may require professional attention. Spark plugs and ignition coils are other components to consider, as they can lead to engine misfires if they are worn or faulty. Lastly, the mass airflow sensor and the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system are critical for optimal engine performance; any malfunctions here can also trigger the warning light. By systematically checking these components, DIY enthusiasts can often identify the source of the problem before seeking professional help.

What are the potential risks of ignoring the check engine light in a 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5?

Ignoring the check engine light in your 2009 Chevrolet Aveo5 is not just a minor oversight; it can lead to serious and costly consequences. The check engine light serves as an early warning system for various engine issues, and neglecting it can result in significant engine damage that may require expensive repairs or even a complete engine replacement. Additionally, unresolved issues can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, meaning you’ll spend more on gas over time. Environmental concerns also arise, as ignoring the light can increase your vehicle's emissions, potentially causing you to fail emissions tests. Safety is another critical factor; problems indicated by the check engine light can affect vital systems like transmission and brakes, posing risks to both the driver and passengers. Lastly, if your vehicle is still under warranty, failing to address the check engine light could void it, leaving you responsible for all repair costs. Therefore, it is essential to take the check engine light seriously and address any underlying issues promptly to ensure the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your vehicle.

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2009 Chevrolet Aveo5 Check Engine Light Issues & Repairs