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.
To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2018 Chevrolet Volt, start with the most straightforward solutions. Begin by inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II diagnostic scanner, which you can connect to the vehicle's OBD port. This tool will provide you with specific error codes that indicate the nature of the problem. Once you have the error code, research its meaning in the vehicle's manual or online resources to gain insight into potential issues. Additionally, check the levels of essential fluids like oil and coolant, as low levels can also activate the check engine light. Finally, inspect the wiring and connections under the hood for any visible damage, as faulty wiring can lead to diagnostic trouble codes. If these initial steps do not resolve the issue, consider seeking assistance from a professional mechanic for a more thorough diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the check engine light in your Chevrolet Volt.
When the check engine light illuminates in a 2018 Chevrolet Volt, it can indicate several common issues that DIY enthusiasts can investigate before seeking professional help. One of the simplest problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapor leaks and is easily remedied by ensuring the cap is tightened properly. Another frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can affect fuel efficiency and emissions; if you have a code reader, you can check for related error codes. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or failures, can trigger the light, though these may require more in-depth diagnostics. Spark plug or ignition coil problems can also lead to engine misfires, which are often accompanied by a check engine light. If you suspect air intake issues, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor could be the cause, affecting the air-fuel mixture. Other potential issues include problems with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, which can be checked for clogs, and a faulty thermostat that may cause overheating. By understanding these common problems, you can take initial steps to diagnose the issue, potentially saving time and money before consulting a mechanic.
Addressing the check engine light in a 2018 Chevrolet Volt is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in maintaining the vehicle's overall health and safety. Ignoring this warning can lead to escalating issues, including severe engine damage or compromised emissions performance, which could result in costly repairs down the line. Moreover, driving with the check engine light illuminated can diminish fuel efficiency and negatively impact the vehicle's performance, potentially putting the driver and passengers at risk. For those who prefer a DIY approach, it is essential to recognize that while some minor issues may be manageable at home, many underlying problems require professional diagnostics to ensure accurate identification and resolution. Therefore, taking immediate action upon seeing the check engine light is vital for preserving the longevity and reliability of your Chevrolet Volt, making it imperative to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or dealership without delay.
Read about related problems experienced by other Chevrolet Volt drivers like you.
See what others are asking about their Chevrolet Volt. Get answers from RepairPal's community of auto experts and enthusiasts.