What could cause my check engine light to be on in my Toyota?

Answer by  diamond90 (309)

If a check engine light appears, it is a warning sign which means that something within the Toyota is not working properly. In order to fix the problem, troubleshooting must be conducted in order to determine the reason why the check engine light came on in the first place.

Answer by  Geo (30)

There are many things that can cause a check engine light to be on. The most common items are air filter is clogged, fuel filter is clogged, if your gas cap is loose it can also turn on the check engine light or a faulty oxygen sensor. Generally the problem is going to be something with the fuel system

Answer by  Allstar (2071)

The emissions control module has most likely kicked up a code. There are a few other things which will kick on the light, but that's the most likely. Take the car to a dealer or qualified shop and have it scanned. They can tell you exactly what code the computer has kicked up, and any repairs to make, if any.

Answer by  alli64 (74)

Anything may be causing your check engine light to be on. It may just need to have routine maintenance done or there may be an impending issue going on in your car's engine.

Answer by  Kriket (1029)

It could be a host of things. If you have a newer car with OBD van be read by a simple hand scanner. Major auto stores will often do this for you free. Needing an oil change, emissions sensors going out and electrical malfunctions are common problems for Toyota, especially sedans.

Answer by  kennethjgoodson (4903)

The check engine light can be on for a numerous amount of reasons. It can be because the car has a misfire or another reason with the car. It can also be another sensor that is bad in the car.

Answer by  samman (80)

It can be one of a thousand things. The best thing to do and the only way to find out what is triggering the light is to go to your local auto part store. Many provide free diagnostic testing.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

There are so many reason it could be on that I can't say for sure where the issue is. To find out what the problem is you need to have it scanned. Most automotive parts store will do this for free or you can have a shop do it. This will give you trouble codes indicating what is wrong.

Answer by  Hellhammer (131)

Try disconnecting the neg. terminal on the battery wait 5 min the re-connect. If it is still on there are many things that could cause a check engine light. Usually it is a sensor failure that must be diagnosed using a code reader. These are available online or have a mechanic look at it.