2011 Chrysler 200 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2011 Chrysler 200: Common Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
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 2011 Chrysler 200 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 2011 Chrysler 200 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 2011 Chrysler 200?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2011 Chrysler 200, the first step is to check the gas cap, as a loose cap can often trigger the warning. If the cap is secure and the light remains on, consider using an OBD II scanner, a handy tool that can help you diagnose the issue by retrieving trouble codes from your vehicle's computer. These codes will provide valuable insights into what might be wrong, allowing you to focus your troubleshooting efforts. Remember, while some issues may be simple and easily fixable, others could indicate more serious problems that may require professional assistance. By starting with these basic diagnostic steps, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and determine the best course of action for your Chrysler 200.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2011 Chrysler 200?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2011 Chrysler 200, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose gas cap, which is often overlooked but can easily trigger the warning light. Ensuring that the gas cap is securely tightened can sometimes resolve the issue without further intervention. However, if the light persists, it may indicate more serious problems related to the engine or emissions system. Issues with engine sensors or the emissions control system can also lead to the check engine light illuminating, signaling the need for further investigation. If you notice that the light is flashing, it is critical to turn off the engine immediately to avoid potential damage. Addressing these common problems promptly not only helps maintain the vehicle's performance but also ensures safety on the road. By understanding these potential issues, DIY enthusiasts can take the first steps toward diagnosing and fixing the problem themselves.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2011 Chrysler 200?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2011 Chrysler 200, it signals an urgent need for attention, as it often indicates underlying issues with the engine or emissions system. Ignoring this warning can lead to diminished vehicle performance and reduced fuel efficiency, which not only affects your driving experience but can also escalate into more severe mechanical failures. The longer you wait to diagnose and repair the problem, the greater the risk of incurring extensive damage that could result in costly repairs down the line. Moreover, unresolved issues can compromise the safety and reliability of your vehicle, putting both the driver and passengers at risk. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize addressing the check engine light promptly to safeguard your vehicle's health and ensure a safe driving experience.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.