Why Is Your Mitsubishi Check Engine Light On? Common Causes

The Mitsubishi check engine light is one of the most important alerts on your dashboard. It’s designed to notify you when something in your vehicle isn’t operating as intended—sometimes minor, sometimes more serious. For drivers in Morgantown, addressing this warning early can help prevent reduced performance, lower fuel efficiency, or more expensive repairs down the road. 

Understanding the most common reasons this light turns on can help you respond quickly and make informed decisions about next steps. 

Common Mitsubishi Check Engine Light Causes 

1. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap 

A loose or damaged gas cap is one of the most common—and easiest to fix—causes of a check engine light. The gas cap helps seal the fuel system and maintain proper pressure. If it isn’t tightened fully after refueling, the system may detect a leak and trigger the warning light. 

In many cases, tightening or replacing the gas cap resolves the issue after a few normal drive cycles. If the light remains on, a professional inspection is recommended. 

2. Oxygen Sensor Malfunction 

The oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and helps regulate the air-fuel mixture. When this sensor fails, it can cause increased emissions, reduced fuel economy, and inconsistent engine performance—along with illuminating the check engine light. 

Prompt replacement is important, since a faulty oxygen sensor can place added stress on the catalytic converter if left unresolved. 

3. Worn Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils 

Spark plugs and ignition coils play a critical role in engine combustion. As these components wear, misfires can occur, leading to rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and a check engine warning. 

This is a common maintenance-related issue and typically straightforward to repair once properly diagnosed. 

4. Catalytic Converter Concerns 

The catalytic converter reduces harmful exhaust emissions. When it becomes clogged or damaged, drivers may notice reduced power, lower fuel efficiency, and an illuminated check engine light. 

Many catalytic converter issues stem from ignoring earlier warning signs, such as failing oxygen sensors or ignition problems. Routine maintenance helps reduce the likelihood of this more complex repair. 

5. Mass Airflow Sensor Problems 

The mass airflow sensor measures how much air enters the engine so the proper fuel mixture can be delivered. If the sensor becomes dirty or fails, symptoms may include rough idling, hesitation, and poor fuel economy—along with the check engine light. 

Professional diagnostics ensure the issue is accurately identified and corrected. 

How Moses Mitsubishi of Morgantown Can Help 

When your Mitsubishi check engine light comes on, accurate diagnostics are essential. The service team at Moses Mitsubishi of Morgantown uses manufacturer-specific diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the exact cause of the warning—not just the symptom. 

Their services include: 

• Comprehensive system diagnostics 

• Repairs using genuine Mitsubishi parts 

• Preventative maintenance to reduce future warning lights 

Addressing a check engine light early helps protect your vehicle’s performance and reliability. With certified technicians and model-specific expertise, Moses Mitsubishi of Morgantown provides the confidence that your vehicle is being serviced correctly from the start. 

Posted in Check Engine Light Causes, Mitsubishi Check Engine Light, Mitsubishi Engine Service Morgantown, Morgantown Auto Finance, Morgantown Auto Repair, Morgantown Auto Service, Morgantown Car Inspection, Morgantown Mitsubishi Service, Morgantown, WV Mitsubishi Dealer, Morgantown, WV Mitsubishi Service, Morgantown, WV Tire Shop, Moses Mitsubishi of Morgantown, Moses Mitsubishi Service, Service Center Morgantown, WV | No Comments »