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.
When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Dodge Challenger, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a frequent culprit for triggering the light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or irregular readings that might indicate other underlying issues. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner can be incredibly beneficial; by connecting it to the OBD-II port, you can retrieve specific error codes that provide insight into the problem. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can also cause the check engine light to illuminate. A visual inspection of wiring and connections is also advisable; look for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion that could affect vehicle performance. If these initial steps do not reveal the issue, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic for a more thorough diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolving the issue.
When the check engine light illuminates in a 2017 Dodge Challenger, it signals potential issues that every DIY enthusiast should be aware of. One of the most straightforward problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can often be resolved with a simple tightening. However, if the light persists, it may indicate more complex issues such as a faulty oxygen sensor, which is crucial for monitoring exhaust emissions and optimizing fuel efficiency. Additionally, the catalytic converter plays a vital role in emissions control, and any malfunction here can lead to significant performance degradation. Engine performance can also be affected by worn spark plugs or malfunctioning ignition coils, both of which can cause misfires and trigger the check engine light. Lastly, the mass airflow sensor, responsible for regulating the air-fuel mixture, can also contribute to this warning if it is not functioning correctly. By understanding these common problems, you can take proactive steps to diagnose and address the issue, ensuring your Challenger runs smoothly and efficiently.
When the check engine light illuminates on your 2017 Dodge Challenger, it signals a potential issue that should not be ignored. The urgency of addressing this warning cannot be overstated, as neglecting it may lead to more severe engine problems, decreased fuel efficiency, and even costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can help identify the specific issue triggering the light. This tool is essential for understanding whether the problem is minor, such as a loose gas cap, or more serious, like a failing sensor or engine component. By diagnosing the issue early, you can take appropriate action, whether that means tightening a cap, replacing a part, or seeking professional help for more complex repairs. Remember, while some issues may seem trivial, they can escalate quickly, leading to safety risks and significant damage to your vehicle. Therefore, addressing the check engine light promptly is not just a recommendation; it’s a crucial step in maintaining the performance and longevity of your Dodge Challenger.
See what others are asking about their Dodge Challenger. Get answers from RepairPal's community of auto experts and enthusiasts.
Read about related problems experienced by other Dodge Challenger drivers like you.
