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There is nothing an Audi owner dreads more than a check-engine light. It seems like it comes on at random times and can even turn off entirely thereafter. You can check the owner’s manual for instructions on how to deal with this, but it won’t give you a clear answer.
While some of the possible issues are easy to fix, such as a loose gas cap, the check-engine light could indicate a serious problem with your engine. If your warning light has illuminated, don’t procrastinate on getting it diagnosed by a professional Audi expert. Get help from a qualified service technician as soon as possible.
Possible Causes of a Check-Engine Light Illumination
The complex computer monitoring systems within your vehicle’s dashboard keep track of several different things relating to your car’s safety. There are a few reasons why your check-engine light might be illuminated. Let’s cover the most common problems we see when servicing Audi vehicles with illuminated check engine lights.
Failing Oxygen Sensor
The O2 sensor in a combustion engine monitors the air-to-fuel mixture in your engine. This mixture is essential to a functional engine. When your check engine light illuminates, it may be because this sensor has failed.
A failing oxygen sensor is a simple replacement that can be completed in very little time. That said, it is one of the most important safety features of your car. An improperly-installed O2 sensor could lead to an improper mixture of air and fuel, causing your engine to misfire. A misfiring engine can be very dangerous. That is why it is so important to have your O2 sensor installed by a factory-certified technician.
Loose Gas Cap
As frightening as the check engine light can be, there is one cause that is easy to fix. You could have a loose gas cap! Most of the time, this is fixed with a good twist or repositioning it and tightening it. If your gas cap won’t seem to tighten, you might simply need a new one. This is no big deal and should come as a relief. If your check-engine light is still illuminated after a few hours, you may need more assistance with this warning indicator.
Electronic Short
Like all things electronic, the computer within your dashboard is subject to shorts and failures. An illuminated check-engine light might not indicate anything wrong with your engine at all. Instead, the problem may lie with your dashboard electronics. This kind of electronic issue can be properly diagnosed with specialized diagnostic tools.
Failing Catalytic Converter
Another possible problem dreaded by motorists everywhere is a failing catalytic converter. Catalytic converters are the part of the exhaust system that converts the gases created by combustion engines into less toxic emissions.
EPA regulations in the United States require vehicles to have a working catalytic converter. This is part of the reason the car’s internal computer monitors the functionality of the catalytic converter. If your catalytic converter has failed, the computer of your vehicle will take note and illuminate your check-engine light. Because catalytic converters use highly-specialized components, this repair or replacement should be done by a professional.
Engine Performance Issues
Any issues that originate from the engine will cause the check-engine light to illuminate. If you notice any irregularity from your engine, such as decreased performance, overheating, or any shaking and rattling originating from the engine, take your vehicle in for inspection immediately.
Remember that cabin vibration and other thumping felt while driving can be indicative of serious issues. These kinds of issues could pose a serious safety threat to you and your vehicle, so it is important to address them as soon as possible.
Corpus Auto Service is Here to Help
Here at Corpus Auto Service, we strive to care for 
each and every vehicle as if it were our own. Our ASE-certified technicians have been serving the communities of Portland, Rockport, Aransas Pass, Calallen, and of course Corpus Christi, Texas for over 30 years.
If your Audi isn’t running as smoothly as it should, don’t wait for it to get worse. Bring your vehicle to our service bay. Our top-of-the-line diagnostic tools and customer-first approach to car care are why residents of Corpus Cristi continue to trust us with their vehicles. Come enjoy free coffee and Wi-fi in our air-conditioned lobby while our master mechanics take the best possible care of your car. Call us today for an appointment.