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 issue in a 2013 Dodge Avenger, begin by locating the OBD-II port, which is typically situated under the dashboard on the driver's side. Once you have found the port, connect an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the trouble codes stored in the vehicle's computer. After turning the key to the "on" position without starting the engine, use the scanner to read the codes, which will provide insights into specific issues, such as a misfire or a malfunctioning sensor. It's essential to interpret these codes correctly; for example, a loose gas cap is an easy fix, while a flashing check engine light indicates a more serious problem that requires immediate attention. Assess the severity of the issue based on the light's behavior and perform any necessary diagnostic tests, such as checking spark plugs or conducting a compression test. If repairs are made, you can reset the check engine light using the scanner or by following a manual reset method. If you find yourself uncertain about the diagnosis or the required repairs, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable to avoid further damage to your vehicle. This systematic approach allows you to tackle the simplest issues first, making your DIY experience more efficient and effective.
When the check engine light illuminates in a 2013 Dodge Avenger, it can be a source of frustration for any DIY car owner. Understanding the common problems that may trigger this warning can help you diagnose and potentially resolve the issue without professional assistance. One frequent culprit is a loose or faulty gas cap, which can lead to emissions system errors; simply tightening or replacing the cap may solve the problem. Another common issue is a dirty throttle body, often caused by carbon buildup, which can be cleaned to restore proper function. Fuel system problems, such as leaks or a malfunctioning fuel tank control valve, can also cause the light to come on, and these may require more in-depth inspection. Additionally, engine stalling related to oil pressure or balance shaft issues can trigger the light, particularly in models with the 2.4L engine. Transmission performance issues, while not directly linked, can also contribute to broader engine problems that activate the check engine light. Electrical issues, including faulty sensors, can illuminate various dashboard lights, including the check engine light, and may require diagnostic tools to pinpoint. Lastly, the quality of fuel used can impact engine performance and trigger the light, so opting for high-quality fuel is advisable. By being aware of these common issues, you can take proactive steps to troubleshoot and potentially fix the problem, saving time and money in the process.
When dealing with the check engine light on a 2013 Dodge Avenger, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for both safety and vehicle longevity. A steady check engine light suggests that while there is an issue that requires attention, it is not an immediate emergency. However, it is wise to schedule a diagnostic check soon, especially if you notice any performance changes or hear unusual sounds. On the other hand, a flashing check engine light signals a serious problem that demands immediate action; continuing to drive could lead to severe engine damage. In such cases, safely pulling over and turning off the engine is essential, followed by arranging for a tow to a mechanic. Additionally, if the check engine light appears alongside other warning indicators or if you experience performance issues, prompt attention is necessary to prevent further complications. For those inclined to take a DIY approach, many auto parts stores offer free code reading services, which can help identify the issue, ranging from minor problems like a loose gas cap to more significant concerns such as an EVAP system malfunction. By understanding these signals and acting accordingly, you can effectively manage the health of your vehicle and avoid costly repairs down the line.
Read about related problems experienced by other Dodge Avenger drivers like you.
See what others are asking about their Dodge Avenger. Get answers from RepairPal's community of auto experts and enthusiasts.
