If you own any of the Chevrolet models, you might happen to find your check engine light flashing. In case it suddenly stops after flashing, you need to know what it means for your car.
The onboard diagnostics of your vehicle are trying to convey some possible glitch to you. However, owners need to be aware of the different levels at which they can spot this sign.
If you find a blinking light, it indicates a serious issue that calls for professional attention. Try to visit the mechanic at the earliest to get the issue sorted out. Now, if the engine light just flashes and then stops, it implies that the cylinder has misfired.
Chevy check engine light flashing then stops: Possible reasons
In case you find the engine light stopping after flashing abruptly, the issue might be serious. A misfiring cylinder can inflict damage to your vehicle, particularly the catalytic converter.
Repairing or replacing this component can be an expensive affair. Therefore, it makes sense to address the issue quickly and seek professional support.
Here, we have discussed the possible reasons that cause the engine light to flash and then stop.
1. Ignition problems
Problems in the ignition are common in Chevrolet cars. This mechanism is complex and includes spark plugs, plug wires, along with ignition coil packs.
All these components function in a coordinated way to ignite the fuel. However, if there is any issue with these parts or the combustion chamber, you will find the light flashing and then stopping.
You need to scan the car for some error codes to detect the root of the issue. Check out whether it shows the P0300 code, which can imply random multiple misfires.
When the engine misfires, you are most likely to detect this code. The code means that even though the Chevy’s engine is misfiring, the computer is failing to identify the malfunctioning cylinder.
In case you find the P301-P0312 code, it points to a misfire code specific to a cylinder. Problems in the spark plug or the ignition coil generally lead to these issues.
2. Problems in the fuel system
Engine misfires also stem from faulty fuel systems. For the ignition to occur, the engine needs air, spark, and fuel. So, when you find the Chevy’s engine light stopping after flashing, it points to a problem in the fuel system.
Besides, the issue might also arise from insufficient fuel that the combustion process would need. Sometimes, problems in atomizing the energy also cause this issue. Here are some of the issues that you might encounter.
- Fuel mixture: The engine might misfire if it runs rich or lean. Accordingly, you will find the error codes P0171 and P0172.
- Injector problems: Problems in the fuel injector might lead to engine misfiring. So, improper atomizing of the fuel can cause the engine light to stop after flashing.
3. Fuel cap is loose
Well, the problem might not be too serious all the time. Even a loose fuel cap might cause the check engine light to flash and then stop. So, the first thing Chevy drivers need to do after the flash stops is to inspect the gas cap. A loose cap often sends false signals, and you can fix it easily.
The sensors responsible for emission control detect fuel vapor or the air in the fuel tank that can escape following a leak in the fuel line. After you get the cap tightened, the sensors would rest while you drive for a short while. Then you would notice the light flashing issue ceasing atomically.
4. Malfunctioning airflow sensor
To help you drive your Chevrolet car effectively, you need air and fuel in the right proportion. Now, a breakage in the airflow sensor can lead to the flashing of lights on your dashboard.
However, you can still drive if you have a broken sensor. However, this would cut down the fuel economy of your Chevy car. You can easily get the air filter and the airflow sensor replaced quickly. Reach out to a reputed automobile mechanic for a quick fix.
5. Problem in the catalytic converter
Sometimes, the problem lies in the catalytic converter of your Chevrolet car. In these cases, you might encounter issues with the acceleration. It might even emit black exhaust, and all these signs point to the same problem.
In case you have a dead or bad catalytic converter, you need to get a new one installed. Besides, these components might prove to be very expensive. So, you might look out for a used component from one of the certified automobile dealers.
6. Faulty oxygen sensors
The function of the oxygen sensor in your Chevy car is to measure the amount of oxygen that has not burnt, and the amount that the car has already exhausted. In case the problem lies in the oxygen sensor, you can still drive your car.
However, experts recommend against this decision, as it would lower your mileage and ultimately inflict damage to the catalytic converter. Considering the high cost of your catalytic converter, it would be prudent to get your oxygen sensor replaced before it affects other components.
7. Spark plug issues
In case you have already cruised along more than 100K miles with your Chevrolet car, the spark plugs might malfunction. In case you have dead or broken spark plugs, you would experience rough idling, stalling, flashing of engine lights, poor fuel economy, and lousy performance. If possible, you can swap the spark plugs, or address the issue with professional support.
How to fix chevy engine light flashing then stops issue
In the first place, inspect the car for a loose fuel cap. In case you can fix this issue yourself, the engine light would no longer bother you.
However, if the issue involves something serious like ignition issues, faulty catalytic converter, damaged spark plugs, or a problematic oxygen sensor, fixing the glitch wouldn’t be your task. Get professional help immediately to prevent further damage to your vehicle.
Conclusion
Unlike some other error messages that might show up on your dashboard, the flashing of the check engine light and then stopping implies something graver.
Considering the adverse consequences that might befall your car, it would be wise to seek professional support. This way, you can save your wallet from expensive repairs while protecting the valuable components of your car.
