Car Engine Repair Costs Explained: What to Expect When You Need a Fix

Posted on August 17, 2023 by junkcars17

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, understanding car engine repair costs is critical. For many, the mere thought of engine trouble triggers anxiety about looming repair bills. However, having a solid grasp on what goes into these costs can help ease these worries.

This blog post seeks to demystify car engine repair, replacement, and the various factors that contribute to these costs. From the intricacies of car engine parts to labor costs and everything in between, we’ll provide an informative guide to help you know what to expect when your vehicle needs a fix. Buckle up, as we dive into the world of motor repairs and costs.

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Common Factors That Determine Car Engine Repair Costs

When it comes to the cost of car engine repair, there are a variety of factors that come into play. The complexity and extent of repairs will determine how much time and labor is required, which can have a direct impact on costs. Additionally, the age and make/model of your vehicle comes into consideration. The cost of the car motor parts needed to repair or replace your engine will also influence costs. Oftentimes, labor charges are not just based on the amount of work needed, but also how much time is required to complete the repairs. Finally, your auto insurance policy may relieve some of the financial burden, so check your covera g e to see if engine repairs qualify.

Car Engine Replacement as an Alternative

Sometimes car engine repair isn’t always an option, and so engine replacement becomes necessary. This is often the case if you’ve encountered severe engine damage or if your current car model no longer has adequate parts available. In this situation, it’s important to consider both the short-term and long-term costs associated with a complete motor replacement. Not only will you need to purchase an entirely new set of car engine parts, but labor expenses may be higher than expected.

How To Find Reliable Auto Repair Shops

When selecting a repair shop, it’s important to research and find a reliable service provider with experienced technicians. Ensure that the shop utilizes quality car engine parts from reputable suppliers. Many shops offer warranties on both labor and parts, so inquire about what is covered under their warranty limitations and policies. It also pays to shop around and compare prices between auto shops to ensure you get the best deal.

When Engine Repair Costs More Than Your Car’s Actual Cash Value

If the cost to repair or replace your car engine is more than your vehicle’s actual cash value (AVC), the insurance company and/or the state DMV may declare it a total loss. Actual cash value takes into account factors such as the make and model of the car, its age, condition, and mileage. At the end of the day, the ACV of a junk car is usually just a fraction of what it would be worth in good condition. If you find yourself with a junk car and want to sell it, it’s important to get an accurate ACV assessment to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Just be sure to choose a reliable auto salvage yard in Indianapolis for a lucrative cash payment and convenient service.

In Conclusion

Having a car engine issue can be overwhelming, but understanding what goes into the repair costs can help ease these worries. From assessing labor rates and considering replacement options to selling a junk car for cash, it’s essential to have an accurate grasp on how much your repairs will cost.

Are you not interested in pursuing costly and time-consuming car engine repair? Then why not trade your total loss vehicle in for an instant cash payment? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer!

Demystifying the Claims Process: Dealing with Total Loss of Your Vehicle

Posted on August 1, 2023 by junkcars17

When you’ve been in an accident and your vehicle has suffered significant damage, one of the outcomes that sometimes surfaces is a ‘total loss’. This term, often dread-inducing for car owners, essentially means the cost to repair the vehicle surpasses its actual cash value (ACV). It’s a turning point that can leave you feeling anxious and overwhelmed, especially when you’re trying to navigate the labyrinth of insurance claims.

In this blog post, we will demystify the claims process surrounding a total loss vehicle, shedding light on what it really means, how the ACV is determined, and what happens when your vehicle is sent to the auto salvage yard. Arm yourself with knowledge and turn an otherwise stressful situation into a manageable task.

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Actual Cash Value (ACV) for Totaled Cars

At the end of the day, your insurance provider is not there to give you a handout; they are a business that wants to pay out as little money as possible. This means that if it can be proven that repairing your car would cost more than its actual cash value (ACV), then they are likely to declare it a total loss. To determine this figure, they must take into account the age of your totaled car, its make and model, any prevailing market conditions, and a few other factors.

Auto Scrap Yards

You may be wondering what happens to your car after it has been declared as a total loss vehicle. In most cases, it will be sent off to an auto salvage yard where it can be dismantled. This is part of the process that allows your insurance provider to calculate the actual cash value and settle with you accordingly. It’s useful to keep in mind that they will not pay out more than is necessary, it can be beneficial for you to shop around for a better deal.

Insurance Claim Payments

At this stage, you may also be wondering what compensation you’re entitled to receive from your insurer. Generally speaking, you will be paid out in the form of an actual cash value claim which is calculated based on your car’s year, make, model and overall condition. This figure should reflect what a functioning car of the same make and model would cost if it were new. The amount can also be adjusted depending on the current market conditions for cars similar to yours.

Maximizing Insurance Payouts

Finally, it’s worth noting that there are certain steps you can take in order to secure a better deal from your insurer. For instance, if you have proof of valuable car parts or extras that were fitted on your car before the accident, factor these into the equation as they may add additional value. Additionally, try to get an independent assessment done to find out how much it would cost to repair your car. This process can be time consuming, but it may help you get a better deal in the long run.

Bonus Tips for Total Loss Vehicles

In addition, there are a few other things you can do in order to get the most out of your total loss vehicle situation. It might be worth contacting an Indianapolis auto salvage yard to see if they will provide a better junk car selling experience. They may offer you a good amount of cash for your junk car, plus tow it away for free. You can also reach out to a scrapyard for used auto parts and repairs. This is especially helpful if you’re planning to buy a used car down the line and the salvage yard can provide you with quality parts and accessories at a discounted price.

It is also important to remain calm during the claims process as it can often become an emotional journey. Be sure to take time for yourself and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek advice from friends and family. Furthermore, pay attention to any deadlines or timelines provided by your insurer and be sure to comply with all of their requirements. This will help ensure that you receive the best possible outcome from your claim. Also, if your insurer offers rental car coverage, be sure to take advantage of that in order to ensure that you’re able to get around during your claims process.

In Summary

Overall, the claims process surrounding total loss of your vehicle can seem daunting and overwhelming – especially when you’re dealing with an insurance provider who is trying to pay out as little money as possible. That being said, by equipping yourself with knowledge and implementing some of the suggestions outlined above, you can transform this otherwise overwhelming situation into a task that is easier to handle.

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What You Need To Know About Auto Insurance Policies

Posted on July 5, 2023 by junkcars17

Auto insurance is one of the most important investments you can make. It protects you from financial losses if you get into an accident and can even help cover costs associated with a total loss of your vehicle. But before signing up for any auto insurance policy, it’s important to understand exactly what type of coverage it offers and how much protection it provides.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some key things that everyone should know about auto insurance policies so that they can make an informed decision when choosing the right plan for their needs.

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Auto Insurance 101

Understanding the basics of auto insurance is a great place to start. Generally, auto insurance policies provide coverage for any damage that occurs as a result of an accident. This includes damage to your vehicle, another person’s vehicle or property, and medical bills resulting from injuries sustained in the accident. Depending on the policy, some plans may also cover costs associated with a total loss vehicle, such as rental car expenses and roadside assistance.

How to Ensure Proper Car Insurance Coverage

It’s important to read through all of the details when signing up for an auto insurance policy so that you know exactly what kind of coverage it provides. Pay special attention to deductibles – this is the amount of money you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurer will begin covering the costs of an accident. Different policies will offer different deductible amounts, so make sure to look for one that fits your budget and still provides adequate protection.

Types of Automotive Insurance Policies

Be aware that different types of auto insurance may also offer varying levels of coverage depending on the type of policy you choose. Comprehensive policies tend to offer more coverage than basic liability plans, while third-party plans provide additional protection if another driver is at fault in a crash. Understanding all of these distinctions can help you determine the best plan for your needs and budget.

Car Maintenance and Repair Coverage

Finally, it’s important to remember that auto insurance does not cover any damage caused by normal wear and tear or maintenance issues – only accidents are covered by most policies. That means if something goes wrong with your engine or brakes, you’ll likely have to pay for those repairs out of pocket. Knowing this can help you plan ahead and budget for any unexpected mechanical issues that may arise in the future.

In Summary

We hope this post has provided some helpful insight into auto insurance policies so that you can make an informed decision when selecting coverage. Remember to read through all of the details carefully and choose a policy that fits both your needs and budget. With a little research, you’ll be on your way to finding the best auto insurance plan for your car!

Sell a Total Loss Vehicle for Cash on the Spot

If you’ve ever found yourself in the unfortunate situation of owning a total loss car, then you know how much of a burden it can be. It takes up space on your property, isn’t drivable, and can bring down the value of your home. However, selling your totaled car to a local junk car buyer in Indianapolis can turn this negative situation into a positive one. Not only will you receive a fair cash payment on the spot, but you’ll also have the added convenience of free junk car removal. Plus, selling to a local auto salvage yard is a quick and easy process, as they are experts in buying junked cars in any condition.

Don’t let your scrap vehicle weigh you down any longer, sell it to a local Cash for Cars company today! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to connect with a certified Indianapolis junk car buyer for details on how to get started! We offer free junk car removal and accept all old or broken auto parts!

The Pros and Cons of Making a Total Loss Car Insurance Claim

Posted on April 7, 2023 by junkcars17

No one wants to find themselves in the unfortunate position of dealing with a total loss vehicle. But if you do, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of making a total loss insurance claim before you move forward. It can be a difficult decision, but knowing the implications ahead of time will help you make an informed choice that’s best for your situation. But filing such a claim comes with both advantages and disadvantages; let’s explore them more closely below!

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What is a Total Loss Vehicle?

A total loss occurs when your car is damaged beyond repair or deemed too expensive to fix. Depending on the severity of the damage, this could mean anything from minor dents and scratches to major collisions resulting in destroyed parts and costly repairs. In these cases, you may have no other option than to file an insurance claim for a total loss vehicle so that you can receive compensation for its value before it was damaged.

Should You Make an Insurance Claim for Your Totaled Vehicle?

Pros:

You’ll receive financial compensation for the value of your car before it was damaged.

You can use that money to buy a replacement vehicle, or you may even end up with more money than what you originally paid for the car.

If your insurance pays out more than what you still owe on the loan for your car, any remaining funds can be applied towards a new vehicle or kept as savings.

Cons:

Depending on the severity of the damage, it may take some time to get an estimate from your insurer and receive approval for a total loss claim. This process could delay getting compensated and purchasing a replacement car.

Filing a total loss claim may increase the cost of your future insurance premiums, as it will be marked on your driving record.

Depending on where you live, you may be required to surrender the salvaged vehicle to an auto salvage yard. This could result in a lower payout if you are unable to keep any remaining parts or accessories from the car.

Conclusion on Filing Total Loss Auto Insurance Claims

In conclusion, filing a total loss insurance claim has both its advantages and disadvantages. It is important to weigh them carefully before making a decision that best suits your needs and situation. Be sure to consider all factors involved so that you can make an informed choice about how to manage your damaged vehicle.

Consider Junking Your Car for Cash

When you’ve decided against filing an insurance claim for your totaled car, the best way to get some compensation for it is by finding a reliable junk car buyer in Indianapolis. With their help, you get to make the most out of your total loss vehicle in the form of cash! Going through a junkyard may seem like challenging work but it can be beneficial as there are plenty of established services that offer attractive buying options on scrap vehicles. This could cash payments, or even having them tow it away for free.

Regardless of your choice, you don’t have to worry about extensive repairs or paperwork. Instead, all you need to do is find the right Cash for Cars Company in Indiana. They will provide a hassle-free process that makes scrapping your totaled car quick and convenient.

Would you enjoy free junk car removal and cash on the spot for your total loss vehicle? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a totaled car in Indianapolis, Indiana for cash on the spot! We provide free junk car removal, which means we come to you!

The Pros and Cons of Replacing a Catalytic Converter on an Older Vehicle

Posted on March 29, 2023 by junkcars17

If you have an older vehicle, chances are you’ve thought about replacing the catalytic converter. Replacing a catalytic converter can be expensive, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before taking on such a project. In this blog post, we will discuss the costs associated with replacing a catalytic converter as well as some of the benefits that come with having a new one installed in your car. We will also provide some tips for making sure your replacement is done correctly and efficiently.

By understanding both sides of the coin, you can make an informed decision about whether or not replacing your catalytic converter is right for you.

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Average Cost of Catalytic Converter Replacement

The first thing to consider when looking into catalytic converter replacement is the cost–the total cost. Depending on your make and model of vehicle, replacing a catalytic converter in an older car can range anywhere from $300 to $2,000, not including labor, which can add up to $250 or more to the total bill.

This price tag may seem intimidating at first, however, it’s important to remember that the cost of not replacing a busted catalytic converter could be much higher in the long run. If you don’t replace a broken catalytic converter, you run the risk of damaging other components in your vehicle including your engine or exhaust system. By replacing yours now, you can avoid having to pay for costly repairs later down the road.

Benefits of a New Catalytic Converter

On top of saving money in the long run, there are also some benefits to having a new catalytic converter installed in your car. A new catalytic converter can improve engine performance as well as reduce emissions, allowing you to be more fuel efficient. Additionally, replacing a broken or aged catalytic converter may help increase the resale value of your vehicle should you decide to sell it later on down the road.

Catalytic Converter Installation

When it comes to replacing a catalytic converter, you want to make sure that the job is done correctly and efficiently. To ensure that this happens, seek out an experienced mechanic who specializes in replacement parts and ask plenty of questions about their process and experience with similar jobs. Ask for a quote up front so you know exactly what you’re getting into before agreeing to any work being done. Finally, make sure to keep all records related to the replacement, including receipts and warranties.

Do Your Research Before Replacing a Broken Catalytic Converter

Replacing a catalytic converter can be expensive and intimidating, but understanding the pros and cons of such a project can help you make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for you. By weighing the cost versus the potential benefits, you can ensure that your investment is well-spent and that your car will be running at its best in no time. With a bit of research and caution, replacing your catalytic converter can be an easy process.

What To Do if the Cost To Repair Your Car Exceeds the ACV

If you’ve come to the realization that repairing your car will cost more than what it’s actually worth, it may be time to cut your losses and move on. In insurance jargon, your vehicle would be called a ‘total loss’ vehicle. You may want to sell your vehicle as-is in order to get back some of its value – and there are a variety of ways to do so. Regardless of the condition of your car, you could contact a local Indianapolis junk car buyer and sell them your totaled car for cash on the spot. Most Cash for Cars Companies offer free junk car removal too! Knowing when and how to cut your losses can be difficult but by following these steps, you’ll be sure to maximize the actual cash value (ACV) of your vehicle.

Ready to make some fast cash by selling your totaled vehicle so that you can place it toward a newer car? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get started with the junk car selling process in Indiana. We serve all of Central Indiana, including Edinburgh, Westfield, Plainfield, Zionsville, and more with free junk car removal!

How to Cut Down on Costly Car Repair Bills

Posted on February 20, 2023 by junkcars17

Do you dread taking your car to the repair shop because of expensive, unexpected bills? Many drivers experience this dilemma and are looking for ways to reduce their auto repair costs. Fortunately, there are some easy steps you can take that will help cut down on costly car repair bills. By following these simple tips and keeping up with regular maintenance checks, you’ll be able to save money on costly car repairs in the long run!

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Good Auto Maintenance Can Lower the Risk of Expensive Car Repair Bills

Taking good care of your vehicle is essential in order to keep it running smoothly and avoid expensive repairs. Regularly scheduled maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and engine tune-ups can all help prevent bigger problems from occurring later on. In addition, being aware of warning signs like strange noises or smells can alert you to potential issues so they don’t become more serious down the road.

Research Budget-Friendly Auto Mechanics

When it comes time for necessary car repairs, be sure to do your research. Shop around and compare prices from different auto repair shops in order to get the best deal. In addition, you can find a lot of useful information online about car troubleshooting and potential solutions. If a repair seems too difficult or intimidating, consider talking with a friend or family member who may have more experience in this area. This way you can save money on labor costs and avoid expensive mistakes that often come with DIY repairs.

Safe Driving Helps to Avoid Expensive Car Repairs

Finally, don’t forget about preventative measures such as driving safely at all times and avoiding risky driving conditions whenever possible. Doing so will help reduce costly car repair bills by preventing accidents or other damage caused by poor driving habits.

By following these tips and staying up to date on regular car maintenance, you can save money on costly car repair bills in the long run. Taking good care of your vehicle will help ensure it runs smoothly for years to come!

When Car Repair Costs More Than Your Car

If the cost of repairing your vehicle exceeds the actual cash value, it can be deemed as a total loss. An inspection by a certified accredited mechanic must take place to properly evaluate how much the cost of repairs would be versus how much the total loss figures are. It may be feasible that extensive repairs need to take place but, in some sense, it leads to a conclusion that the vehicle is altogether beyond comprehension and any form of repair is impossible or impractical due to financial constraints. Therefore, economic points concerning actual cash value calculations and car repair bills positioned side by side should eventually conclude if it falls from its belief into precedence as a total loss.

Is the cost to repair your car more than the actual market value of your vehicle? This means your ride is totaled. Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to speak with a licensed and qualified junk car buyer in Indianapolis who pays cash on the spot for totaled car and trucks in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide free phone quotes and junk car removal!

How to Tell if You Have a Bad Alternator

Posted on August 4, 2021 by junkcars17

When it comes to a vehicle’s electrical system, one the most common cases seen at the auto repair shop is a failing alternator. Your car’s alternator is important because it basically converts the engine revving into usable, electrical energy that recharges your car battery. But your car’s electrical system is the power source for several other systems within your vehicle, including GPS, DVD, stereo, interior cabin lights, headlights, taillights, spark plugs, and several other standard car management systems. So, when your alternator is going bad, several other automotive components our also taking a hit.

Continue reading learn how to tell if you have a bad alternator, and what to do if your alternator breakdown has rented your vehicle a total loss.

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Car Alternator Problems

A car alternator is the automotive part that is responsible for turning mechanical energy into electrical energy for the purpose of charging the car battery. In turn, the car battery keeps all other car management systems powered by electricity operating optimally.

In today’s automotive manufacturing industry, innovative advancements and technologies are now incorporated into automotive design, so these days, many modern cars are almost fully reliant on their electrical systems. This is especially true for electric cars, which are becoming more popular among consumers in the automotive industry.

Needless to say, your vehicle’s alternator is very important. Basically, your car won’t run if your alternator breaks down, because if it does, your battery won’t get any charge and will eventually die. And a quick jump start to the battery won’t help if the underlying problem is the alternator.

Top 3 Signs of a Failing Alternator

Because alternators can break down or suddenly stop working without any warning, it is sometimes difficult to detect the signs of failing alternator. However, here are some common signs and signals that tend to indicate a bad or broken alternator:

► Your car battery dies a lot or doesn’t hold charge for very long. Because your car battery is not getting the proper charge it needs from the alternator, it will continue to die even if you jump start or replace it.

► Your headlights are dimming or illuminating. If you are headlights, taillights, or interior cabin lights are always changing in terms of intensity, your alternator could be to blame.

► You detect the smell of burning plastic. The smell of burning plastic is a common symptom of corroded or burned alternator wires and/or internal components.

Does the cost to repair your alternator exceed the total market value of your car? If so, you can sell your totaled car to a local Indianapolis Indiana junk car buyer for instant cash on the spot. Just be sure to choose a reputable and long established cash for cars company for the highest payouts in the most convenient client amenities you could ask for! You can also sell your old or broken alternator!

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You Should Also Read:

Is My Car Totaled if the Engine Blew?
Do I Need Car Radiator Repair?
When and Why You Need to Change the Motor Oil in Your Car

Do I Have to Notify My Insurance Company to Sell My Junk Car?

Posted on December 11, 2020 by junkcars17

When it comes time to sell a car, whether a brand new model or an antique automobile, your first thought might be regarding your insurance coverage. That is, if you even have any at the moment. Continue reading to learn how a junk car is deemed a total loss, and when selling one requires you to contact your insurance carrier in Indiana.

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Total Loss Junk Cars

When a car is damaged, and the cost to repair the damage exceeds the vehicle’s overall value, an insurance company will consider it a totaled car, or total loss vehicle. For instance, if your car is worth $3,000 on the current market, but after your accident, the total cost of repairs is estimated to be $4,400, then the car is totaled. A car can only be deemed a total loss by the insurance company. An insurance adjuster will come out to inspect the vehicle and determine whether or not it is totaled.

You generally have two options when your car is deemed totaled by your insurance carrier. You can either file the claim to receive compensation from your insurance provider (the amount of compensation will depend on various factors, including your particular policy terms and the market value of your vehicle), or you can refuse to file it with your insurance and keep the car. If you choose to file a claim with your auto insurance carrier, they will take the vehicle, title, keys, and license plate out of your possession.

Notifying Your Insurance Company

If you plan to keep your total loss vehicle, and it is actively insured, you will need to notify your insurance company. If your junk car does not have any insurance coverage, so long as you are the lawful owner, you can sell it without notifying anyone. If the car is still registered, however, you will need to cancel the registration before selling it to a junk car buyer. If you file a claim with your insurance carrier and receive money to repair or replace your vehicle, but instead sell it, you could face legal penalties.

Where to Sell a Junk Car in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get started on your free quote if you wish to sell a junk car in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer. We will schedule a time to pick up your vehicle, and then pay you cash on the spot. Request a free estimate, today!

Is My Car Totaled if it Can’t Pass an Emissions Test?

Posted on October 23, 2020 by junkcars17

There are many obvious circumstances that render a car a total loss. But what about the more hidden causes of a totaled car? For instance, an emissions test. There are many states that require routine automotive emissions testing. Is Indiana one of them? Because if your car can’t pass one, you might be the bummed owner of a totaled car. But that’s not such as bad thing either!

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about vehicular emissions tests, and why a totaled car can still provide worthy value.

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Indiana Law on Emissions Testing

Here in the Hoosier State, it is not necessarily a law that vehicles must pass an emissions test prior to registration. However, it is strongly encouraged. In most other states, if a car does not pass an emissions test, it cannot be lawfully registered. Although there are a few exceptions, if a car doesn’t meet EPA standards and guidelines, you cannot legally drive it in states that have this law. Here in Indiana, there is no such requirement, so cars that don’t pass an emissions test can still be operated legally.

CAR WON’T PASS AN EMISSIONS TEST? No problem in the eyes of the law in Indiana, but you still might want to get it fixed.

Why Test Car Emissions?

Although Indiana does not require it by law, it is important to monitor and maintenance your car’s emissions. When vehicle burn fuel, harmful emissions are generated, and disbursed into the surrounding environment. By ensuring our vehicles meet safe emissions standards, we better protect our planet, and all the living things that call Earth home. Emissions testing standards were developed by the Environmental Protection Agency, and regulated by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

So, is My Car Totaled or Not?

When you car won’t pass an emissions test, it is not likely totaled. In order to gauge whether or not a vehicle is a total loss, identify the current market value for the vehicle, and compare it to the total cost to have the problem with the emissions repaired. If the cost to repair is higher than the value of the vehicle, your car is a total loss. But not to worry! You can sell it to a local Indianapolis junk car buyer and get paid instant cash on the spot!

How to Maximize Your Payout for a Junk Car in Indianapolis

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get rid of a junk car in Indianapolis, Indiana for an instant cash payment. Our Cash for Cars Company offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! We will schedule a time to pick up your vehicle and pay you cash. Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, today.

Does a Check Engine Light Mean My Car is Totaled?

Posted on July 11, 2019 by junkcars17

A Check Engine Light, or Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp (MIL), is an important safety component in every vehicle. All modern make and model vehicles are designed with a Check Engine Light feature, which are incorporated to alert drivers when something is not quite right with the operation and systems in the vehicle. Because an illuminated Check Engine Light means that something is wrong, often times, car owners begin to panic when theirs comes on. Sometimes, a Check Engine Light can remain illuminated even after having a car repaired. In this situation, you might be asking yourself whether or not your car is worth repairing.

Continue reading to learn what a Check Engine Light could mean, including when it could mean that your car is totaled.

Reasons Why Check Engine Lights Come On

The spectrum of issues that cause a Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp to illuminate range from minor to major. Some vehicles have two types of MIL’s, one that is solid and one that is flashing, both of which mean different warnings. Furthermore, some cars have two different colors of Malfunctioning Indicator Lamps; a yellow icon to indicate a problem, as well as, a red icon for a very serious problem that requires you to stop driving immediately.

Here’s Why Yours Might Be On Right Now:

? Loose Gap Cap – This is by far the most common minor reason why a Check Engine Light might illuminate. If you just filled up your tank, chances are, your Check Engine Light came on because your gas cap came off.

? Spark Plugs – If your car jolts or vibrates as its operating, and the Check Engine Light comes on, it could mean that your spark plugs are defective. If your car is driving abnormally, immediately pull over and call a tow truck.

? Low Fluids – If your vehicle is low on radiator fluid (coolant), motor oil, or another vital automotive fluid, your Check Engine Light might come on. Have your oil changed, and during the appointment, have all other fluids flushed and replaced.

? Oxygen (O²) Sensor (O2) – If your Check Engine Light comes on, and you know it’s not the gas cap or fluid levels, it could be because your oxygen sensor needs to be replaced. This part is responsible for measuring the level of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system.

? Catalytic Converter – If your catalytic converter is experiencing any type of problem, your Check Engine Light will let you know.

? Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) – Another common cause for an illuminated Check Engine Light is a defective mass airflow sensor (MAF). If this sensor is the problem, a simple replacement will turn that Check Engine Light back off.

When it Means a Car is Totaled

There are cases in which an illuminated Check Engine Light can mean that a car is totaled. If the Check Engine Light comes on because of something that requires extensive repairs or replacements that cost more than the overall value of the vehicle, the insurance company will likely deem the car a total loss. See our blog, “FAQS About Total Loss Cars and Claims” to learn more about total loss vehicles.

What You Can Do With a Totaled Car

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get paid cash for your totaled car in Indianapolis. Our Indiana junk car buyers offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! We will schedule a time to pick up your vehicle and pay you cash. No title? No problem! Give us a call anyway! Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, today.