2016 Nissan Rogue Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 Nissan Rogue: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2016 Nissan Rogue 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 2016 Nissan Rogue 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 2016 Nissan Rogue?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Nissan Rogue, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to observe your dashboard gauges for any unusual readings, as these can provide clues about underlying issues. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; by connecting it to your vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve specific error codes that pinpoint the problem. Additionally, inspect the condition of your spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can also cause the light to illuminate. Finally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can lead to engine complications. By following these initial steps, you can effectively gather information to help diagnose the cause of the check engine light and determine the next steps for resolution.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 Nissan Rogue?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2016 Nissan Rogue, it can be concerning for any driver. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose gas cap, which is an easy fix that can save you from unnecessary trips to the mechanic. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring the vehicle's emissions and fuel efficiency. If this sensor fails, it can lead to increased fuel consumption and emissions, making it essential to address. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the check engine light, often indicating a more serious issue that may require professional attention. The mass airflow sensor is another component that can malfunction, affecting the engine's air-fuel mixture and overall performance. Worn-out spark plugs or a defective ignition coil can also lead to engine misfires, which are often signaled by the check engine light. Lastly, issues with the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve can contribute to the light illuminating, as this component is vital for reducing emissions. Understanding these common problems can empower DIY enthusiasts to troubleshoot effectively and determine whether a simple fix or professional diagnosis is needed.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 Nissan Rogue?

Addressing the check engine light in your 2016 Nissan Rogue is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical step in maintaining your vehicle's health and safety. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious repercussions, including extensive engine damage and costly repairs. The check engine light often signals underlying issues with the engine or emissions system, which, if left unresolved, can escalate into more significant problems. Moreover, modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated onboard diagnostics that can help you identify the specific issue, making it easier to take corrective action. Continuing to drive with the check engine light on can also negatively impact your vehicle's fuel efficiency and performance, leading to increased emissions that harm the environment. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize addressing the check engine light promptly to ensure your Nissan Rogue operates smoothly and efficiently, safeguarding both your investment and the environment.

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