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 on your 2007 Mitsubishi Galant, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle. Begin by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve any error codes from the vehicle's computer. This tool is invaluable for DIY diagnostics, as it provides specific codes that indicate potential problems. After obtaining the codes, research their meanings through your vehicle's manual or reputable online resources to gain insight into the underlying issues. Additionally, inspect essential components such as the battery, spark plugs, and wiring for any signs of wear or damage, as these can also contribute to the check engine light activation. If, after these steps, the cause remains unclear, it may be prudent to consult a professional mechanic for a more in-depth diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issues causing the check engine light to illuminate, potentially saving time and money on repairs.
When the check engine light comes on in a 2007 Mitsubishi Galant, it can signal a range of common issues that are often manageable for DIY enthusiasts. One of the simplest problems 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 affects the air-fuel mixture and can be tested with an OBD-II scanner. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter may arise, often indicated by unusual exhaust smells or decreased performance, and while this can be more complex to address, understanding its role can guide further investigation. The mass airflow sensor is another component that can fail, impacting engine efficiency; cleaning or replacing it can sometimes resolve the issue. Furthermore, problems with spark plugs or ignition coils can lead to engine misfires, which are often noticeable during acceleration. Lastly, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause overheating, triggering the check engine light as well. By being aware of these common problems, DIYers can take proactive steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issues before seeking professional help.
When the check engine light illuminates in your 2007 Mitsubishi Galant, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, including decreased engine performance and reduced fuel efficiency, which can ultimately result in costly repairs. The urgency of addressing the check engine light cannot be overstated, as neglecting it may exacerbate the underlying issue, potentially leading to severe engine damage or even a breakdown. For those inclined to take a DIY approach, it is crucial to first use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific problem. However, while some issues may be minor and easily fixable, others could pose safety risks or require professional intervention. Therefore, it is advisable to act swiftly and consider consulting a qualified mechanic if the problem persists, ensuring the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.
See what others are asking about their Mitsubishi Galant. Get answers from RepairPal's community of auto experts and enthusiasts.
Read about related problems experienced by other Mitsubishi Galant drivers like you.