2022 GMC Canyon Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2022 GMC Canyon and How to Resolve Them

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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 2022 GMC Canyon 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 2022 GMC Canyon 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 2022 GMC Canyon?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2022 GMC Canyon, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying issue effectively. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to observe the dashboard gauges for any unusual readings that might indicate a more serious problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can guide your troubleshooting efforts. Once you have the error code, research its meaning in your vehicle's manual or online resources to gain insight into the potential issue. Additionally, inspect the wiring and connections under the hood for any signs of damage or disconnection, as faulty wiring can also cause the check engine light to illuminate. If these initial steps do not lead to a resolution, consider scheduling a diagnostic test with a professional mechanic who can conduct a thorough analysis. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose the problem and take the necessary steps to resolve the check engine light issue in your GMC Canyon.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2022 GMC Canyon?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2022 GMC Canyon, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. 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 the light persists, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a faulty sensor can lead to poor fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also cause the light to illuminate, often indicating a more serious issue that may require professional attention. Spark plugs and ignition coils are other common culprits; if these components are malfunctioning, they can significantly affect engine performance. Another area to investigate is the mass airflow sensor, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture. A malfunction here can disrupt engine operation and trigger the check engine light. Lastly, don’t overlook the thermostat and emission control system, as failures in these areas can also lead to the light coming on. Addressing these issues promptly not only helps in maintaining optimal vehicle performance but also prevents further damage down the line.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2022 GMC Canyon?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2022 GMC Canyon, it is crucial to take immediate action rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning light is your vehicle's way of communicating that there may be underlying issues affecting its engine or emissions system, which can range from simple fixes to serious malfunctions. Ignoring this signal can lead to more significant problems, such as engine misfires or overheating, which not only compromise your vehicle's performance but can also result in costly repairs. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you can prevent further damage, enhance fuel efficiency, and ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle. For DIY enthusiasts, this means taking the time to diagnose the issue, whether through an OBD-II scanner or by visually inspecting engine components, to maintain your GMC Canyon's optimal performance and avoid potential complications down the road.

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2022 GMC Canyon Check Engine Light Causes & Solutions