2022 Nissan Sentra Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2022 Nissan Sentra: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 Nissan Sentra 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 Nissan Sentra 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 steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2022 Nissan Sentra?

When diagnosing the check engine light on a 2022 Nissan Sentra, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that emphasizes simpler solutions first. Begin by visually inspecting the vehicle for any obvious issues, such as a loose or damaged gas cap, which is a frequent cause of the check engine light activation. After this initial check, connect an OBD-II diagnostic scanner to the vehicle's OBD port to retrieve the specific error code that is triggering the light. This code is instrumental in identifying the potential problem area. Additionally, ensure that essential fluids, including engine oil and coolant, are at appropriate levels, as low fluid levels can also trigger the warning light. If these preliminary steps do not uncover the issue, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic for a comprehensive diagnosis is advisable. By adhering to this structured approach, you can effectively pinpoint the cause of the check engine light and take the necessary steps to resolve it.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2022 Nissan Sentra?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2022 Nissan Sentra, it serves as a crucial alert for drivers, especially those inclined towards DIY repairs. Recognizing the common issues that can trigger this warning light is essential for effective troubleshooting. A loose gas cap is often the simplest and most overlooked cause, easily rectified by ensuring it is securely fastened. More complex issues may involve a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only impacts emissions but can also lead to reduced fuel efficiency, necessitating replacement. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can indicate serious engine issues, requiring further investigation. Engine performance can also be compromised by worn-out spark plugs or malfunctioning ignition coils, both of which can lead to misfires and activate the check engine light. Furthermore, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while a faulty thermostat may lead to overheating, both of which are critical to address promptly. By understanding these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can take informed steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue, ensuring their Nissan Sentra operates at its best.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2022 Nissan Sentra?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2022 Nissan Sentra, it is crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. This warning indicator is not just a minor inconvenience; it signals potential issues with your engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this light can lead to more severe problems, including costly repairs and diminished vehicle performance. While some issues may be minor and easily fixable, such as a loose gas cap, others could indicate serious malfunctions that compromise your vehicle's safety and efficiency. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct a preliminary diagnostic check using an OBD-II scanner, which can help identify the specific trouble codes triggering the light. This proactive approach allows you to determine whether the issue is something you can resolve yourself or if it requires the expertise of a qualified mechanic. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's reliability but also enhance your understanding of its maintenance needs, making you a more informed DIY car owner.

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