There are several reasons why the check engine light would come on in your Acura Integra. When you turn your ignition, your car activates the On-Board Diagnostics system, or OBD. This diagnostics system checks your car for any engine problems. If a component of your On-Board Diagnostics System fails twice, your OBD alerts you by activating your check engine light. The best way to find out why your check engine light is coming on is to connect your car to a scan tool or a code reader.
One reason for the activation of your check engine light could be a problem with your oxygen sensors. You could be operating your Integra with a bad oxygen sensor. Simpler issues might include erosion of the wiring of your system or loose oxygen connectors. Check your oxygen wiring system for dysfunctions before replacing your oxygen sensor.
Your check engine light could be activated because of an issue with your fuel injector. This could include a simple problem, like a clogged fuel injector, or a more serious problem, like a dead fuel injector. A clogged fuel injector means that your injector has too much dirt and oil on it and is not sending enough fuel into the engine. A dead fuel injector doesn't function at all and needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
Your check engine light could be coming on for any number of engine cylinder issues. The cylinder misfire code covers many of the most basic ones. These include a bad spark plug, a bad plug wire, a weak coil on your distributor ignition system, leaky head gasket and any kind of failure with your compression system. All can lead to serious problems with your car as your engine continues to misfire.
One easily overlooked reason for your check engine light being activated is simply that your gas cap is loose. The On-Board Diagnostic system on an Acura Integra checks for fuel tank pressure. If your gas cap is loose, this will cause the pressure in your fuel tank to drop. If your check engine light comes on, check to see if your gas cap is secure before having your car analyzed.
