1995 INFINITI G20 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 1995 INFINITI G20: Common Causes and Solutions

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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 1995 INFINITI G20 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 1995 INFINITI G20 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 1995 INFINITI G20?

When faced with a check engine light on your 1995 INFINITI G20, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying problem effectively. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or unusual readings that might offer further insights into the vehicle's condition. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner is a crucial step; by connecting it to the OBD-II port, you can retrieve specific error codes that will guide you in pinpointing the issue. 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 the wiring and connections around the engine is also advisable, as damaged or corroded wires can lead to various problems. If these initial steps do not resolve the issue or if the light remains on, seeking professional assistance may be necessary to ensure a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and potentially save on costly repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 1995 INFINITI G20?

When the check engine light comes on in a 1995 INFINITI G20, it can indicate several common problems that are often manageable for DIY enthusiasts. One of the simplest issues to check is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened or replaced if damaged. Another frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can affect fuel efficiency and emissions; this part can be tested and replaced with basic tools. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or failures, may require more in-depth diagnostics but can sometimes be identified through visual inspection. The mass airflow sensor is another component that can malfunction, leading to performance issues, and it can be cleaned or replaced as needed. Spark plug and ignition coil issues are also common, as worn components can lead to misfires and poor engine performance; these can be replaced with relative ease. Lastly, a defective EGR valve or vacuum leaks can trigger the check engine light, and while these may require more investigation, they are often within the skill set of a DIY mechanic. Addressing these issues promptly not only helps in maintaining the vehicle's performance but also prevents further damage, making it essential for owners to be proactive when the check engine light illuminates.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 1995 INFINITI G20?

Addressing the check engine light in a 1995 INFINITI G20 is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's health and safety. This warning indicator is not just a minor inconvenience; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could escalate into serious problems if ignored. For instance, a malfunctioning engine can lead to misfires, which not only affect performance but can also cause extensive damage over time. Additionally, issues with sensors or the catalytic converter can compromise fuel efficiency and increase harmful emissions, making it imperative to act swiftly. Continuing to drive with the check engine light illuminated risks further damage to the engine and other vital components, potentially resulting in costly repairs. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and resolve the underlying issues as soon as possible to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle.

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1995 INFINITI G20 Check Engine Light Causes & Repairs