1990 Chrysler New Yorker Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 1990 Chrysler New Yorker: Common Causes and Solutions

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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 1990 Chrysler New Yorker 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 1990 Chrysler New Yorker 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 1990 Chrysler New Yorker?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on a 1990 Chrysler New Yorker, start with the simplest solutions before progressing to more intricate assessments. Begin by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. If the gas cap appears secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner to read any error codes from the vehicle's ECU. These codes are invaluable for pinpointing the specific issue at hand. After retrieving the codes, take the time to interpret them using a reliable code manual or online resource, which will help you understand the underlying problem. Additionally, inspect the wiring and connections under the hood for any signs of damage or disconnection, as faulty electrical components can also cause the check engine light to illuminate. Finally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can contribute to engine performance issues. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and take the necessary steps toward resolution.

What are the common causes of a check engine light in a 1990 Chrysler New Yorker?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 1990 Chrysler New Yorker, it can be a source of frustration for any DIY mechanic. Common problems that may trigger this warning include issues with the emissions system, which can stem from faulty components like the oxygen sensor or exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve. Additionally, problems with various sensors, such as the mass airflow sensor or throttle position sensor, can lead to incorrect readings that activate the light. A malfunctioning catalytic converter is another frequent culprit, often resulting from prolonged engine issues or poor fuel quality. Other factors, such as vacuum leaks or ignition system failures, can also contribute to the check engine light coming on. To effectively address these issues, it is crucial to conduct a thorough diagnostic check, which may involve using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes that can guide your troubleshooting efforts. By understanding these common causes, you can take the first steps toward resolving the issue and ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What urgent steps should be taken to diagnose and address the check engine light on a 1990 Chrysler New Yorker?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 1990 Chrysler New Yorker, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to more severe problems, including engine damage or compromised safety. Start by ensuring that the gas cap is securely tightened, as a loose cap is a common culprit for triggering the light. Next, inspect the spark plugs and plug wires for any signs of wear or damage, as these components are crucial for proper engine function. Additionally, check your oil levels; low oil can also cause the light to activate. Utilizing an OBD scanner can provide valuable insights by reading the trouble codes from your vehicle's computer, helping you identify the specific issue at hand. Once you've addressed the underlying problem, you may need to reset the check engine light, which can often be done with a diagnostic tool or by disconnecting the battery briefly. If these steps do not resolve the issue, seeking professional assistance is advisable to prevent further complications. Taking prompt action not only ensures the longevity of your vehicle but also safeguards your safety on the road.

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