If your Mazda’s check engine light is blinking, this is an indication of a serious problem. What is happening is fuel is seeping into the exhaust system and damaging the catalytic converter. This fuel is not burned; it’s still in liquid form. Do not drive your Mazda if the check engine light is blinking. Mazcare recommends that you have your Mazda towed to our shop if your check engine light is blinking. If it turns on and remains steady, drive your vehicle to our shop as soon as possible. Here are common reasons why your Mazda’s check engine light will turn on and remain steady.
Catalytic Converter Problems
Again, if the check engine light is blinking, you have liquid fuel in the catalytic converter damaging it. If the check engine light remains steady, your catalytic converter may be clogged or malfunctioning. The catalytic converter lasts about 10 years, so it might go bad if you drive an older Mazda.
Faulty EVAP Control System
Another reason why the check engine light will turn on and remain illuminated is a faulty EVAP control system. This is the system that makes sure fuel does not evaporate out of your Mazda. If it begins to malfunction, the check engine light will turn on and you will notice engine performance problems.
Faulty Engine Control Unit
The engine control unit is your Mazda’s main computer chip. It communicates with system sensors to make sure your Mazda is always running efficiently. If it malfunctions, the check engine light will turn on and your Mazda’s engine may stall. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to get it restarted.
Loose Gas Tank Cap
Another thing that prevents fuel evaporation is the cap that covers the gas tank. If you have not tightened it after you’ve filled your Mazda, the check engine light will come on. An old gas cap may also be unable to create a seal over the gas tank.
Malfunctioning MAF Sensor
The mass airflow sensor keeps track of incoming air. It is located in the engine behind the air filter. If it begins to malfunction, it may indirectly cause a problem with the air and fuel balance in the combustion chamber. When this happens, the check engine light will turn on.
Malfunctioning O2 Sensor
The same thing happens with the oxygen sensor. This sensor measures the oxygen levels in your Mazda’s exhaust. It might malfunction between 90,000 and 100,000 miles. The check engine light will turn on once the O2 sensor sends the engine control unit an error code.
Worn Spark Plugs/Wires
Finally, worn spark plugs or problems with the plug wires can make the check engine light turn on. In addition to the check engine warning, your engine will misfire and stall.
Call Mazcare in Marietta, GA, today if your Mazda’s check engine light is blinking or staying illuminated after you start the car or utility vehicle.