2016 Chrysler 300 Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in Your 2016 Chrysler 300

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2016 Chrysler 300 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 2016 Chrysler 300 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 steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2016 Chrysler 300?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Chrysler 300, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Begin by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. If the gas cap appears secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner, which connects to the vehicle's diagnostic port. This tool will help you retrieve error codes that pinpoint the specific problem. Additionally, take note of any accompanying symptoms, such as unusual noises or performance issues, as these can provide further clues to the underlying cause. If these initial steps do not lead to a resolution, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic who can conduct a more thorough diagnosis. By following this structured 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 2016 Chrysler 300?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2016 Chrysler 300, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most straightforward 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 that’s not the issue, consider the oxygen sensor, which monitors the exhaust and can fail over time, leading to poor fuel efficiency and emissions problems. Another critical component to inspect is the catalytic converter, as any inefficiencies or failures here can significantly impact engine performance. Additionally, worn-out spark plugs or faulty ignition coils can cause misfires, which will also activate the check engine light. Lastly, don’t overlook the mass airflow sensor, as it plays a vital role in regulating the air-fuel mixture. Addressing these common problems promptly not only helps in turning off the check engine light but also ensures your Chrysler 300 runs smoothly and efficiently. If you’re unable to diagnose the issue yourself, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to prevent further complications.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 Chrysler 300?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2016 Chrysler 300, it is crucial to take immediate action rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning can signify a range of issues, from simple sensor malfunctions to serious engine problems that could compromise vehicle safety and performance. Ignoring the light may lead to decreased fuel efficiency and could escalate into more significant, costly repairs if the underlying issue worsens. Moreover, some problems indicated by the check engine light may pose safety risks, not only to the driver but also to passengers and other road users. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic to diagnose the issue accurately and ensure the vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. Addressing the check engine light promptly can save you time, money, and potential hazards in the long run.

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