2013 Chrysler 200 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2013 Chrysler 200: 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 2013 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 2013 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 2013 Chrysler 200?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2013 Chrysler 200, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start 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 review your dashboard gauges for any additional warnings that might indicate other underlying issues. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can guide your troubleshooting efforts. After that, inspect the condition of your spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can also cause the light to illuminate. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluids, including oil and coolant, are at appropriate levels, since low fluid levels can contribute to engine performance issues. Finally, examine the wiring and connections around the engine for any signs of damage or corrosion, which could lead to electrical problems. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed action to resolve the issue. If you find yourself uncertain at any point, consulting a professional mechanic is always a wise choice.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2013 Chrysler 200?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2013 Chrysler 200, it can signal a variety of issues that may require your attention. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's pressure and trigger the warning light. If the light begins to flash, it indicates a more serious problem, such as a malfunctioning emissions system component, sensor, or catalytic converter, which necessitates immediate investigation to avoid further damage. Additionally, issues like coolant leaks may suggest a failing water pump, while other potential causes include faulty spark plugs or oxygen sensors. To accurately diagnose the problem, utilizing an OBD-II scanner to read the diagnostic codes is essential, as it provides specific information about the underlying issue. Addressing these problems promptly not only helps maintain the vehicle's performance but also prevents costly repairs down the line.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2013 Chrysler 200?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2013 Chrysler 200, it signals a need for immediate attention, as ignoring it can lead to serious repercussions. Not only does a lit check engine light indicate potential mechanical issues, but it can also result in failing emissions tests, which are mandatory in many states. A common culprit, such as a loose gas cap, may seem minor but can trigger the light and affect your vehicle's performance. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the cause promptly. For DIY enthusiasts, starting with a simple inspection of the gas cap can be a good first step. However, if the light persists, utilizing an OBD-II scanner can help identify error codes that point to more significant problems. Addressing these issues early not only helps maintain your vehicle's efficiency and safety but also ensures compliance with emissions regulations, ultimately saving you from costly repairs and fines down the line.

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2013 Chrysler 200 Check Engine Light Guide | RepairPal