10 of the Most Expensive Auto Repairs Today

1. Engine Failure

Engine failure is one of the most expensive car problems that can occur to any vehicle owner. Not only does it put your safety at risk, but it also requires a substantial amount of money to fix or replace. In some cases, engine failure could be attributed to poor maintenance habits like skipping oil changes or ignoring signs of an overheating engine. Other times, it’s simply due to normal wear and tear over time.

2. Transmission Failure

The transmission is responsible for shifting gears in your car, making it an essential component for proper functioning. When the transmission fails, not only do you have to deal with the inconvenience of not being able to drive your car, but the repair costs can range from a few thousand dollars to the actual cash value of your vehicle.

3. Head Gasket Failure

The head gasket is a small but crucial part of your car’s engine, sealing the combustion chambers and keeping oil and coolant from mixing. When it fails, it can cause significant damage to your engine, resulting in costly repairs that can exceed thousands of dollars.

4. Catalytic Converter Failure

A catalytic co n verter is an essential component in reducing harmful pollutants emitted by your car’s exhaust system. When it fails, you may not notice any immediate impact on the performance of your vehicle, but replacing it can cost upwards of $1,000 or more.

5. Suspension Issues

Issues with suspension can lead to a bumpy ride and can even affect the handling of your car. From worn-out shocks to damaged control arms, suspension problems can easily cost you hundreds of dollars to fix.

6. Air Conditioning Failure

In hot summer months, having a functioning air conditioning system in your car is crucial. However, when it fails, it’s not only an inconvenience but also a costly repair that can easily run into thousands of dollars. Air filter replacement and more are important routine services to outsource.

7. Electrical Problems

Modern cars are equipped with complex electrical systems that control everything from engine management to entertainment features. When these systems fail due to faulty wiring or electronic components, it can be challenging and expensive to diagnose and repair.

8. Fuel System Issues

The fuel system is another essential component of a vehicle, responsible for delivering fuel to the engine for combustion. When it experiences problems, such as a clogged fuel filter or a faulty fuel pump, repairs can cost hundreds of dollars.

9. Brake System Failure

The brake system is crucial for safe driving and requires regular maintenance to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Unfortunately, when brake components fail, they can be costly to replace, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.

10. Body Damage

Accidents happen, and when they do, body damage can lead to expensive repairs that not only affect the appearance of your car but also its overall value. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or major collision, repairing body damage is never cheap.

What to Do When You Cannot Afford to Repair a Car

If you cannot afford to repair your car, or the cost to repair your car exceeds its actual cash value (ACV), consider selling it to a junk car buyer for instant cash on the spot. Selling your totaled car to a junk car buyer can be hugely beneficial. Firstly, it’s an opportunity to get instant cash. Junk car buyers often pay on the spot for your vehicle, regardless of its condition. This can be a lifeline for those in need of quick funds. Secondly, it’s a stress-free process.

You don’t have to worry about costly repairs to make the car saleable or negotiate with potential buyers. Junk car buyers handle everything, including the pickup of the vehicle from your premises. Finally, it’s an environmentally friendly choice. Junk car buyers often recycle the parts of the car that are still usable thereby reducing the need for new parts to be manufactured, which in turn lessens the demand for resources and reduces pollution.

In Summary

While car problems can range from minor inconveniences to major safety hazards, it’s essential to be aware of the ones that will break the bank. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent these issues from occurring or minimize their impact, ensuring your vehicle maintains its actual cash value. Remember, you can always sell a total loss vehicle to an auto salvage yard and get paid cash on the spot from a junk car buyer!

Can’t afford to repair your car back to a working or safe condition? Sell it to us for cash on the spot! 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.

GC’s Junk Cars pays cash on the spot for all junk cars, including totaled ones! Contact us at 317-608-2188 to sell a totaled car in Indianapolis, Indiana, today! We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer!

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!

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!

Call 317-608-2188 to Sell a Totaled Car in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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!

Is My Car Totaled If It Is Over 50 Percent Damaged?

Posted on April 25, 2022 by junkcars17

No matter how much you wreck or damage a car, it is never entirely void of value. However, if the cost to repair the damage exceeds a certain percentage of its current market resale value, you could be looking at a total loss. Continue reading to learn what this average percentage is, plus a bonus tip on how to earn the maximum profit by selling a totaled car in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Actual Cash Value (ACV)

In order to determine if a car is totaled or not due to the amount of damage it has, you need to calculate the Actual Cash Value, or ACV. This number will give you a basis to predict what the insurance company will do with your car or truck. Actual Cash Value will be calculated by the insurance company using specific factors relevant to your vehicle, including the make and model, after-market modifications or features, pre-incident damages, and similar, regional auto sales of the particular vehicle.

3 Qualities of a Total Loss Vehicle

There are three key indicators of a totaled car. A vehicle will be deemed a total loss if it meets even one of the three:

➀ It cannot be safely repaired.
➁ The cost to repair exceeds the ACV.
➂ It meets Indiana’s total loss guidelines.

Your car does not have to be 50% damaged to meet the total loss guidelines listed above. It can be less than 50% damaged or more than 50% damaged and be deemed totaled. For this reason, it is important to have your vehicle properly evaluated and diagnosed by a licensed mechanic.

How to Keep a Totaled Car

In Indiana, you are permitted to keep your totaled car whether it is insured or not. However, if you want to still collect from your insurance, keep in mind that they will pay you the pre-crash value, but subtract your policy deductible and the amount of money that the insurance company would have gained by selling your totaled vehicle to a salvage yard. Is this the wise way to go? It depends on your intentions.

If you want to keep a totaled car for the purpose of reselling it, you should avoid claiming it under your insurance. Instead, sell directly to an Indianapolis junk car buyer for the maximum payout. This cuts out the middleman, so you make more money!

Are you looking for a well-established and ultra-professional auto salvage yard that can pay out top dollar for junk cars and motorized equipment in Indy? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get paid cash on the spot by a trusted junk car buyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide FREE junk car removal!

Frequently Asked Questions About Engine Flushes

Posted on July 22, 2021 by junkcars17

Have you ever wondered about the benefits of the car engine flush? Well, there are various benefits to having your engine flush on a routine basis. Not only does in engine flush clean all of the internal motor parts, but it also cleanses what the filters mess, removes excess sludge and deposit buildup, and it keeps your new motor oil clean. Basically, routine engine flushes are vital to the overall longevity and performance of your vehicle.

If you have begun to notice some serious engine problems in your car, an engine flush just might be the trick to get your vehicle back to an adequate and safe performance level. However, if you discover that your engine has taken a turn for the worst and you cannot afford a motor replacement, you can always sell your totaled car to a local Indianapolis junk car buyer for instant cash on the spot!

Wish to learn more about engine flushes? Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about car engine flushes, and where to sell your totaled car if the engine breaks down for good.

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Car Engine Flushing FAQS

Do I Really Need to Flush My Engine?

Many vehicle owners wonder if flushing the engine is something they actually need. The truth is, a car engine flush is worth it because it clears out all of the residual gunk and buildup within the internal workings of your motor, which ultimately keeps your car engine running at peak performance. Not only does this keep you safe on the road but it also saves you money on gas and because you are avoiding premature engine repairs.

My Car is Brand-New? Do I Need to Flush the Engine?

Newer model vehicles are actually designed with innovative advancements in automotive technology, and therefore do not require engine flushes at all. In fact, some new cars could be damaged by flushing the engine. So, be sure to always check with your owners’ manual to ensure that your vehicle is compatible with an engine flush before moving forward with the service. Now, if your vehicle is an older model, you can safely assume that an engine flush is something that should be on your routine car maintenance schedule.

Do Engine Flushes Reduce Fuel Consumption?

There are many benefits to including a routine engine flush in your routine car maintenance schedule, one of which is improved gas mileage. When your engine is clean, it can perform at an optimal level, and therefore, efficiently use the fuel in your gas tank. But if your engine begins to struggle in any way, it will start to overuse your fuel because it has to work harder to perform the same duty it always has, and this can cost you a lot of money in the long run.

When Should I Get a Car Engine Flush?

If your engine is performing poorly, or your vehicle is using too much gas, it may be time for an engine flush. If you just purchased a very old used car, and engine flush could also be beneficial. As for your routine car maintenance schedule, it is recommended to have the engine flushed on an as-needed basis when recommended by your trusted mechanic. Again, most modern vehicles never required engine flush, and can in fact be damaged by one.

Did your car engine breakdown and now your vehicle is totaled? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get paid cash on the spot by a trusted junk car buyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide FREE junk car removal!

You Might Also Read:

General Qualities of a Total Loss Car
Does a Check Engine Light Mean My Car is Totaled?
When and Why You Need to Change the Motor Oil in Your Car

Can the Wrong Fuel Damage a Car?

Posted on November 27, 2019 by junkcars17

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you put a different type of fuel into your vehicle than you normally do? Could you put diesel fuel in a Honda? Or unleaded fuel in a Lamborghini? There are certainly some good reasons why car manufacturers instruct a particular type of fuel for their vehicles; but how scientific are they? What if you accidentally use the wrong fuel nozzle at the gas pump? Will your car be damaged beyond repair? If so, how can you recover without insurance coverage? As a vehicle owner, these are all very pertinent questions that warrant answers.

Continue reading to learn what might happen if you put the wrong type of fuel in your car, and what to do if it ever happens by accident.

Here is the thing about using the wrong type of fuel in a car: it can either have severe effects, like major engine damage or corroded fuel lines, or it can have no real effect at all. It depends on the type of fuel used, and the make and model vehicle it was put into.

Putting Diesel in a Gasoline Engine

If you were to put diesel fuel into a gasoline engine, the effects would not be as devastating as the former scenario, however, it would still be a bad situation for both you and your car. Not only will it make the car smoke excessively, the car will not perform well. Furthermore, it may clog the fuel filter, lines, and injectors. If you were to continue giving a gasoline engine diesel, the engine would eventually stop working altogether. If this situation does occur, do not start your car. Instead, disconnect the battery and then have your vehicle towed to a mechanic.

Putting Gasoline in a Diesel Engine

If you put regular gasoline into a vehicle that runs on a diesel engine, you are in a bad position. First, do not start the car, otherwise, the damage will be catastrophic to the engine and fuel system. Second, to remedy the problem, you will have to have the entire fuel system cleaned. This includes everything from the tank and lines, to the injectors, filter, and more. In addition to automotive damage, gasoline and diesel fuel have different boiling points, so from a mechanical standpoint, using gasoline in a diesel engine would destroy the engine and related systems.

No Car Insurance?

In the case that you do not have automotive insurance, your position is worse since you might be left with a totaled car and no settlement check. If this happens, you still have some viable options for selling your car. The best option is to sell your totaled car to a local junk car buyer in Indianapolis. They will pay you cash on the spot for the market value of your car, so long as you can prove ownership of the vehicle.

Here’s How to Get Started!

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.

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.

10 of the Most Expensive Auto Repairs Today

1. Engine Failure

2. Transmission Failure

3. Head Gasket Failure

4. Catalytic Converter Failure

5. Suspension Issues

6. Air Conditioning Failure

7. Electrical Problems

8. Fuel System Issues

9. Brake System Failure

10. Body Damage

What to Do When You Cannot Afford to Repair a Car

In Summary

Actual Cash Value (ACV) for Totaled Cars

Auto Scrap Yards

Insurance Claim Payments

Maximizing Insurance Payouts

Bonus Tips for Total Loss Vehicles

In Summary

Auto Insurance 101

How to Ensure Proper Car Insurance Coverage

Types of Automotive Insurance Policies

Car Maintenance and Repair Coverage

In Summary

Sell a Total Loss Vehicle for Cash on the Spot

What is a Total Loss Vehicle?

Should You Make an Insurance Claim for Your Totaled Vehicle?

Conclusion on Filing Total Loss Auto Insurance Claims

Consider Junking Your Car for Cash

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

Research Budget-Friendly Auto Mechanics

Safe Driving Helps to Avoid Expensive Car Repairs

When Car Repair Costs More Than Your Car

Actual Cash Value (ACV)

3 Qualities of a Total Loss Vehicle

How to Keep a Totaled Car

Car Engine Flushing FAQS

Do I Really Need to Flush My Engine?

My Car is Brand-New? Do I Need to Flush the Engine?

Do Engine Flushes Reduce Fuel Consumption?

When Should I Get a Car Engine Flush?

Putting Diesel in a Gasoline Engine

Putting Gasoline in a Diesel Engine

No Car Insurance?

Here’s How to Get Started!

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

Here’s Why Yours Might Be On Right Now:

When it Means a Car is Totaled

What You Can Do With a Totaled Car