If you’re driving near Lanark, ON, and suddenly notice your check engine light flashing, it’s time to visit MacPherson’s Auto Centre in Carleton Place. Our expert team is ready to diagnose and fix whatever is causing that pesky light to turn on.
The check engine light is a key part of your car’s computer system. It helps keep an eye on how your car is doing. When this light turns on your dashboard, it’s more than just a warning; it’s a sign from your car’s advanced system. This system keeps track of everything from how the engine mixes fuel and air to how well the engine and exhaust system are working.
When the check engine light comes on, it can mean a lot of different things. Some are easy fixes, while others might be more complicated. It could be something small, like a gas cap that’s not on tight, which can mess with the pressure in your fuel tank and turn on the light.
Or, it might be a big deal, like a problem with how your engine burns fuel or an issue with the system that controls your car’s emissions. If the light is steady, it’s usually a smaller issue, but if it’s flashing, that means a serious problem that needs quick attention.
One cool thing about the check engine light is that it stores special codes when the car’s computer finds a problem. These codes help figure out what’s wrong. Our mechanics at MacPherson’s Auto Centre use a special tool called an OBD II scanner to read these codes and find out exactly what’s going on.
When your check engine light comes on, it could be due to a variety of reasons. Here are some common causes:
Faulty Oxygen Sensor: This sensor measures the amount of unburned oxygen in your car’s exhaust system. A malfunction can lead to inefficient fuel consumption and increased emissions.
Catalytic Converter Issues: The catalytic converter helps reduce exhaust gases. If it’s not working properly, your car might run at a higher temperature, and your fuel efficiency could decrease.
Problems with the Ignition Coil: The ignition coil generates the spark that ignites the fuel in your combustion chambers. Issues here can cause engine misfires and poor performance.
Mass Airflow Sensor Malfunction: This sensor measures how much air enters the engine and determines how much fuel is needed. If it’s not working right, it could affect your car’s fuel efficiency and engine performance.
Loose Gas Cap: A gas cap that’s not sealed properly can affect your car’s emissions system, leading to a change in pressure and triggering the check engine light.
Emissions System Malfunctions: Problems with any part of the emissions system, including the EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control System), can cause the light to turn on.
Spark Plug/Ignition Wire Issues: Worn or fouled spark plugs or defective ignition wires can cause misfires, poor fuel economy, and increased emissions.
These are just a few examples of what might cause the check engine light to illuminate. It’s always best to have your vehicle checked by a professional at MacPherson’s Auto Centre to diagnose and fix the issue accurately.
At MacPherson’s Auto Centre in Lanark, ON, we take a systematic and thorough approach to diagnose the reason behind your check engine light illumination. Here’s how we do it:
Initial Consultation: We start by talking to you about any recent vehicle behaviours or symptoms you’ve noticed.
Code Reading: Using an advanced OBD II scanner, we connect to your car’s computer system to read any stored trouble codes. These codes provide the first clues as to what might be wrong.
Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection: We perform a detailed inspection of key systems and components that could be related to the issue.
Data Analysis: Our technicians analyze the data and codes from the diagnostic tools alongside the vehicle’s history and your observations.
Pinpointing the Issue: We combine all this information to identify the root cause of the check engine light accurately.
Providing a Detailed Report: We explain the findings to you in a clear and understandable way, outlining the necessary repairs or services.
Once we’ve diagnosed the issue, MacPherson’s Auto Centre in Lanark, ON offers a variety of engine repair services to resolve the problem. Depending on the diagnosis, these services may include:
Oxygen Sensor Replacement: If a faulty oxygen sensor is the culprit, we’ll replace it to ensure optimal fuel combustion and emissions control.
Catalytic Converter Repair: We repair or replace malfunctioning catalytic converters to restore proper exhaust system function.
Ignition Coil Replacement: For issues with ignition coils, we provide replacement services to ensure effective engine ignition.
Mass Airflow Sensor Service: We can clean or replace the mass airflow sensor to ensure accurate measurement of air entering the engine.
Gas Cap Tightening or Replacement: A simple but crucial fix, we ensure your gas cap is properly sealed to maintain the right pressure in the fuel system.
Emissions System Repair: We address any emissions system malfunctions, from EVAP system repairs to EGR valve replacements.
To avoid future check engine light problems, consider these preventative measures:
Regularly Check Your Gas Cap: Make sure it’s not loose or damaged.
Keep Up with Maintenance: Regular service checks can prevent issues before they trigger the engine light.
Pay Attention to Your Car’s Performance: If you notice any changes, like a decrease in fuel efficiency or unusual noises, get it checked out.
Read Your Owner’s Manual: It’s full of helpful tips on maintaining your car, including the engine and emission systems.
For reliable and efficient check engine light services near Lanark, ON, choose MacPherson’s Auto Centre. Our team is dedicated to providing top-quality service, ensuring your car is safe and roadworthy. Don’t let a lit check engine light stress you out. Visit us in Carleton Place for a professional and hassle-free experience.
Thank you for fitting me in to fix my AC, especially since this summer has been so hot. Car is nice and cool now, I also appreciated the detailed invoice. Thanks again for the work well done!
Sylvain G Aug 8, 2025
(Translated by Google) Straightforward and honest (Original) Franc direct et honnête
Danny Lavoie Jul 7, 2025
Staff are excellent
Barb Gagne Jun 6, 2025
Hands down best customer service I have ever received! Mark and Spencer are awesome!!
Jillian Kraft Apr 4, 2025
I have nothing but good things to say about MacPherson's Auto Centre! The staff members are gracious, knowledgeable and respectful. Spenser the owner is a true gem!!!
carey derochier Mar 3, 2025
MacPherson’s is a great place where we always take our vehicles, for over 9 years now! They not only have great mechanics, but they’re honest and have integrity; so you can trust what they say about your vehicle and they stand behind their work! Our family recommends them to anyone needing a place to service and care for your vehicles!!
Bethany Cousins Feb 2, 2025
Service was prompt and friendly. Will go back for all my car maintenance needs
James Rose Apr 4, 2022
Been there 3 times this year, 2 different vehicles, only because the service was top shelf and prices better than the dealer.
Armand Fournier Oct 10, 2024
Excellent experience and service. Thank you!
Andy Wood Sep 9, 2024
This shop is amazing. It’s the only one I use. They explain everything and do great work. I trust them with all of my vehicles.
Borg designation 2 of 3 and 1 of 8 Apr 4, 2022
Always friendly and helpful service. Plus they will try to accomodate me in an emergency. What more can you ask?
Leigh Finlay Jun 6, 2024
My dad recommended this place. They're always fast and thorough. Communication is easy and the report they give you is a real plus. Many years and multiple vehicles later and they are still the best.
Andrew Munn Jul 7, 2021
always good and rapid service. Thank you J-F
uniglass plus Feb 2, 2022
Have come here many times with different vehicles, always great service and fair prices. Highly recommend!
Simon Tomlinson Mar 3, 2024
Awesome guys to deal with would recommend 10/10 spencer is on it and there to make sure you are happy
Joshua Hillyard Feb 2, 2024
Brought my vehicle for brake service. And completed the job and done the service properly as well.
Uditha Sendapperuma Jan 1, 2024
Thank you for a job well done. I was very pleased with the performance of my car after the problem was fixed and thank you for the discount it was greatly appreciated. You guys were awesome 😊
Mary Leroux Jan 1, 2024
Extremely fast and very friendly. Will be using them from now on!
Jean-Guy Menard Jan 1, 2024
Replaced oil pressure gauge
Lizadoo Lit May 5, 2023
Absolutely incredible service! These guys are the most professional and caring. I requested and I received exactly what I wanted with my car upgrades and Maintenance. Id also extend my special shoutout and thanks to Spencer. He was absolutely patient and professional with all my requests and he delivered within timely manner. Thank you to All MacPherson Team. You guys are the Best!
Fasih Khan Jan 1, 2024
Nice people, job done efficiently and effectively! Waiting room is above and beyond expectations of an auto shop! See you soon!
andre labatte Dec 12, 2023
Clean professional shop, ethical service and friendly staff!
Norm Swaebe (SharkyCA) Aug 8, 2022
I’ve come to expect honest, high quality service at MacPherson’s, at a reasonable price.
Jason Mueller-Neuhaus Dec 12, 2023
As always, McPherson’s did a great job on my vehicle. Fixed all the issues for a very reasonable price and the service was quick. Highly recommend!
Kelly Kilrea Nov 11, 2023
Excellent service. Good people.
Ken & Emily Scott Nov 11, 2023
Always friendly honest service !
Joyce Waite Nov 11, 2023
Honest, hardworking and forthcoming. Every step of the way, I felt like they wanted me to be as informed as possible to be in a position to make the best decision for me.
Patrick Smith Nov 11, 2023
I have always been pleased with the service from McPhersons. The availability of a loaner is important for me.
Mike Jeays Nov 11, 2021
Professional and friendly. Resolved request immediately.
E D Oct 10, 2023
Always great service!
Dawn Bone Feb 2, 2022
Friendly and fast I was able to book a last minute appointment due to another shop having to reschedule my appointment I will definitely be a returning client
Jennyne Kennedy Oct 10, 2023
Performed a transmission inspection, kept me up to date with what was happening, got me in a day ahead of appointment and were very kind and friendly when I went in to pay the bill. They even had my vehicle towed there and covered the bill and added it to my bill. I’d recommend their services.
Tyler Cole Oct 10, 2023
Great service and attention to detail.
Gilles Chercuitte Aug 8, 2023
I appreciated the communication I received as it was detailed and regular. (Texts and paper) . Spencer at the front desk was courteous and respectful. It took 4 days to get a loaner( car was in shop total 7-8 days) but I was thankful to have it after no vehicle for 4 days. I mentioned to a couple people and they thought the price for used starter and installation was expensive…I’m just trusting McPhersons gave me a honest price as I’m not into cars and mechanical things. Overall my experience was very good.
Janice Gartner Aug 8, 2023
Service was great, they were very prompt with replying to me, and did a great job on my car. They really should use paper floor mats when they get into a vehicle. I did not appreciate the big very dirty footprints on my mats as I just vacuumed it the day before to bring it in! Other than that, very good service!
Colleen Wood Aug 8, 2023
Very professional staff that are willing to help. A friend recommended them and glad that they did. I will also recommended to my friends. Thanks Spencer and staff.
Darlene Kennedy May 5, 2023
Great service team at Macpherson,s highly recommended their services.
Jeffery Neron Aug 8, 2023