2016 Toyota Mirai Check Engine Light On

Common Causes for the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 Toyota Mirai and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Toyota Mirai 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 Toyota Mirai 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.

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 Toyota Mirai?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Toyota Mirai, the first step is to observe the light's behavior. A steady light suggests a non-critical issue, while a blinking light indicates a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Next, assess any performance changes in your vehicle; if you notice a significant drop in power, it may have entered limp mode, necessitating a tow to a service center. Utilizing an OBD-II code reader is crucial for retrieving Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) from the vehicle's Electronic Control Module (ECM), which can pinpoint potential issues. Common culprits include a loose gas cap, failing catalytic converter, or faulty spark plugs. While a code reader can provide valuable insights, remember that interpreting these codes often requires professional expertise, especially for complex problems. If you notice additional symptoms like slow engine cranking or battery issues, these may indicate a separate concern. By following these diagnostic steps, you can effectively begin troubleshooting the cause of the check engine light and determine whether further professional assistance is needed.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2016 Toyota Mirai, it can signal a range of issues that vary in severity. One of the most straightforward problems to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can lead to fuel vapor leaks, prompting the warning light. If the light persists, consider inspecting the spark plugs, as worn or dirty plugs can cause engine misfires, potentially leading to more extensive damage if not addressed. Another critical component to examine is the catalytic converter; if it becomes clogged or fails, it can significantly affect your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. Additionally, the oxygen sensor plays a vital role in maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture, and a malfunction here can lead to poor fuel economy and engine strain. The Mass Air Flow sensor is another area to investigate, as its failure can disrupt engine performance. While less common, issues with the transmission or fuel injection system can also trigger the check engine light, indicating the need for further inspection. Lastly, if the light is blinking, it signals a severe issue, such as an engine misfire, that requires immediate attention to prevent further damage. For accurate diagnosis, using an OBD-II scanner to read the fault codes is essential, and consulting a professional mechanic may be necessary for complex repairs.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light on my 2016 Toyota Mirai?

When it comes to the check engine light on your 2016 Toyota Mirai, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for both your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. A constantly lit check engine light suggests that there is an issue that requires attention, but it may not be an immediate emergency. However, delaying action can lead to more severe problems and costly repairs down the line. On the other hand, a flashing check engine light is a clear signal of a serious malfunction, often indicating an engine misfire that could damage critical components like the catalytic converter if not addressed right away. Additionally, if you experience performance issues alongside the light, such as reduced power or strange noises, it is imperative to seek professional help immediately to prevent your vehicle from entering a "limp-mode" that could exacerbate the problem. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner to read the fault codes stored in your vehicle's onboard computer can provide valuable insights into the specific issues at hand, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis and timely repairs. Ultimately, prioritizing the check engine light's signals can save you from significant safety risks and financial burdens.

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