VE Commodore Check Engine Light Is On: 7 Causes + Fixes

I’m Gavin J. Knox,  the founder of The Check Engine Light. I’ve been diagnosing and repairing vehicle problems for years, especially the VE Commodore. This vehicle is strong and reliable. Like other vehicles, it signals problems with its check engine light. Each Commodore owner should understand these issues.

Most of the time, the Commodore’s check engine light is turned on to show sensor issues and malfunctions. When they fail, we will be informed and warned by the check light.

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7 Common Causes and Solutions of Check Engine Light in VE Commodore

1- Faulty Sensors

• Explanation: the VE Commodore consists of many sensors. This includes oxygen sensors and oil pressure sensors. These sensors monitor the car’s performance. In case they don’t work properly, a warning signal will be sent to the car’s computer and this leads to a flashing check engine light.
• Solution: First of all, you should use an OBD2 scanner to find out which sensor is not working. After the diagnosis, the failed sensor should be replaced. It’s sometimes possible to solve the problem by cleaning the sensor or checking its connections.

2- Low Oil Pressure

• Explanation: This is a severe issue. A variety of factors can lead to this. Such as a failing oil pump, blocked oil filter, or just low oil levels. If the issue is persistent, you have to replace the oil pump or the oil filter.

3- Battery Issues

• Explanation: Undoubtedly a weak or failed battery can cause many electrical problems and these problems would trigger the check engine light.
• Solution: The battery voltage should be regularly checked. Always ensure that’s fully charged. If your battery is old or even weak, don’t hesitate to replace it as soon as possible.

4- Timing Chain Problems

• Explanation: The timing chain malfunction can cause severe engine issues. It has some symptoms to inform you. They are rough idling and unusual engine noises.
• Solution: This is a complicated issue and you should seek a professional’s help. If you’re not sure whether it’s a timing chain issue or not, you’d better consult with a mechanic.

5- Exhaust System Issues

• Explanation: The exhaust issues are problems like catalytic converter malfunction or issues with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve. These factors can turn the check engine light on.
• Solution: Check the exhaust system to find the problem. Sometimes it’s necessary to change or repair some components like the catalytic converter or the EGR valve.

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6- Electrical System Malfunctions

• Explanation: The VE Commodore has a complex electrical system. Possible issues like frayed wiring or improper connections can trigger the check engine light.
• Solution: You can diagnose and repair these issues if you keep checking the electrical system regularly. In most cases, you can easily solve the problem by replacing or repairing the damaged wiring or connections.

7- Miscellaneous Causes

• Explanation: Other causes of a triggered check engine light can be fuel quality issues, transmission issues, or a loose gas cap.
• Solution: To fix these miscellaneous problems, you’d better do a diagnostic check to identify the exact cause.

What to Do When VE Commodore Check Engine Light Is On

A flashing check engine light of your VE Commodore shows that you should pay attention to it and take immediate action. We prepared a step-by-step guide for you.

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1- Stay Calm And Assess The Situation

• first, it’s important to Stay calm and not panic. Look for any significant change in your car’s performance. If you see an unusual performance or hear an unusual noise, it’s necessary to stop driving the car.

2- Check For Simple Issues

• Sometimes the cause can be as funny and simple as a loose gas cap. Check it to see if it’s tightened properly or not. Also, check if you have recently used a different type of fuel.

3- Use an OBD2 Scanner

• if you can’t find any significant change or obvious issues, or if the problem is complicated, use an OBD2 scanner. It can read the trouble codes (DTCs).  These codes provide us with the cause that triggers the light to come on.

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4- Address Urgent Issues

• If the OBD2 scanner shows severe problems like overheating or engine misfiring, it’s necessary to address them quickly. If you continue driving with this vehicle, a lot more complex problems can happen to your car.

5- Consult a Professional

• If the issue is complex or you doubt it, it’s wise to consult with a mechanic. They can check your vehicle more deeply and provide you with a more accurate diagnosis.

6- Regular Maintenance

• If you stick to the regular maintenance of your VE Commodore, you can prevent many issues that trigger your check engine light. Regular maintenance includes oil changes, spark plug checks and changes, and making sure that the battery is in good condition.

7- Avoid Common Misstep

• If you’re not sure about the problem, avoid trying to fix it yourself. Avoid common DIY mistakes, like clearing the check engine light without fixing the main cause. This can lead to more significant issues.

8- Educate Yourself

• Study about common issues with a VE Commodore. Being educated can help you in a quicker problem diagnosis.

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CONCLUSION

In brief, understanding the causes of a VE Commodore’s check engine light can affect the performance and Longevity of your vehicle. It shouldn’t be neglected to make yourself with the common causes of a triggered check engine light.

FAQs

• What should I do immediately when the check engine light comes on in my VE Commodore?
  As an experienced professional, I suggest you first look for any significant and noticeable malfunctions or noises. If you found nothing, using an OBD2 scanner to read the error codes can be a good idea for a better diagnosis.

• Can I drive my VE Commodore with the check engine light on?
  It fairly depends on the issue. If the car’s performance seems normal, you can continue driving to a nearby help service center. However, in case you see significant changes in your car’s performance, it’s safe to stop driving to prevent more complex issues.

• How often should I get my VE Commodore serviced to avoid check engine light issues?
  You should stick to regular servicing. Its ideal time is between 10,000 to 15,000 kilometers or as per your manufacturer’s recommendation. This can highly prevent unexpected issues.

• Is it expensive to fix the causes of a check engine light?
  The cost depends on the type of issue. While sensor replacement is inexpensive, changing or repairing the timing chain is costly.

• Can a faulty check engine light itself be the problem?
  Absolutely! It’s rare but it’s possible to happen. If no issues are diagnosed, then the light’s wiring or the light bulb should be checked.

• How reliable are OBD2 scanners in diagnosing check engine light causes?
  The OBD2 scanners are highly reliable and provide us with accurate diagnostic codes. This makes it easier to identify the main and underlying issues.

• Can regular oil changes prevent check engine light issues?
  Regular oil changes can prevent many issues that are related to the engine. This includes those issues that trigger the engine light.