When the check engine lights on your Honda’s dashboard, it is never a cause for celebration. On the other hand, it does not necessarily mean a major repair. The check engine light can point to a range of issues—some minor, others more serious—so until a professional diagnoses the problem, there is no reason to suspect the worst. At Pat’s Garage we help CR-V owners to get answers quickly with dependable diagnostics, quality repairs, and expert care from nationally ASE-certified technicians.
Many CR-V drivers are surprised to learn that something as simple as a loose gas cap can trigger the light. When the cap isn’t sealing properly, the emissions system detects a problem. More severe check engine light problems can include fuel injector problems, or even a failing catalytic converter.
Your engine may also act up when spark plugs or ignition coils begin to wear out. Since these parts ignite the air-fuel mixture in each cylinder, faulty spark plugs can lead to misfires, rough idling, or hard starts. Another frequent cause is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a major role in how your CR-V balances fuel and air. When it sends inaccurate readings, the engine may run too rich or too lean, affecting both power and fuel economy. And of course, a dirty or failing Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor can cause similar symptoms by miscalculating the air entering the engine.
If your check engine light activates, its behavior provides valuable insights into potential issues. A blinking light signals a critical issue, often indicating a severe misfire that can result in serious engine damage. We recommend parking the vehicle in a safe spot, and turning off the engine. It is best to have your Honda CR-V towed to a trusted auto repair shop. Naturally we think Pat’s Garage is the shop you should choose. If the check engine light is illuminated in a steady fashion, it’s ok to get back home, and seek professional diagnosis within a day or two – driving around with the check engine light “on” can results in damage to your vehicle, possibly even requiring catalytic converter replacement.
At Pat’s Garage we use cutting-edge digital diagnostic tools as well as decades of auto repair experience, to precisely identify the problem. All repairs are backed by a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty and high quality replacement parts. If your Honda CR-V's check engine light is illuminated, call our San Francisco auto repair shop to arrange an appointment to ensure your vehicle remains in optimal condition.