New Level Auto Service finds and fixes the cause of check engine lights at our shop at 716 E Gude Dr in Rockville, MD. We read the code, test the parts behind it, and tell you what’s wrong before we fix anything. If your light is flashing, slow down and call us at (301) 762-1200.
- ASE-certified mechanics
- 20+ years of experience
- Licensed MD inspection station
- All makes and models
- Se habla español
What usually turns on the check engine light
- A loose or bad gas cap. It sounds too simple, but a gas cap that doesn’t seal lets fuel vapor escape and is one of the most common reasons for the light.
- EVAP system leaks. Small leaks in the fuel vapor hoses and valves trigger codes. We find them with a smoke test instead of guessing.
- Misfires. Worn spark plugs, ignition coils or injectors can make a cylinder misfire. This is the one that makes the light flash.
- Oxygen or airflow sensors. A bad O2 sensor or mass airflow sensor throws off the fuel mixture and can hurt your gas mileage.
- Catalytic converter problems. A failing converter often shows up after long-term misfires or oil burning. It’s an expensive part, so we confirm before replacing it.
- Vacuum leaks. A cracked hose or gasket lets extra air in, causing lean codes, rough idle and hesitation.
Steady light vs. flashing light
A steady check engine light means the computer found a problem and stored a code. The car is usually OK to drive for a short time, but bring it in soon so a small problem doesn’t turn into a big one.
- Read and record the codes
- Check freeze-frame data
- Test the related parts
- Smoke test EVAP and vacuum leaks
- Explain the fix before starting
- Clear the code and verify the repair
A flashing check engine light means the engine is misfiring badly. Raw fuel can overheat and ruin the catalytic converter, so slow down, avoid hard acceleration and get the car checked as soon as you can.
Check engine light and Maryland emissions
Maryland’s emissions test reads your car’s computer, so an active check engine light can keep you from passing. We can find what’s causing it and repair it here. Also see our computer diagnostics service.
Why Rockville drivers bring their cars to us
New Level Auto Service is owned by Christian, a mechanic with more than 20 years of experience. The shop has been in Rockville for over 10 years, and our mechanics are ASE certified.
- 20+ yrsHands-on experience behind the owner
- 10+ yrsServing drivers in Rockville
- ASECertified mechanics
- EN / ESWe speak English and Spanish
Check engine light FAQ
Why is my check engine light on?
The light comes on when your car’s computer detects a problem with the engine, emissions or fuel system. Common causes are a loose gas cap, EVAP leaks, misfires, bad oxygen or airflow sensors, and catalytic converter problems. Reading the code is the first step to finding out which one it is.
Is it safe to drive with the check engine light on?
If it’s steady and the car drives normally, usually yes for a short time, but get it checked soon. If it’s flashing, the engine is misfiring and you should slow down and have it checked right away to avoid damaging the catalytic converter.
Can a loose gas cap really turn on the check engine light?
Yes. If the cap doesn’t seal, fuel vapor leaks out and the EVAP system sets a code. Tightening or replacing the cap sometimes fixes it, but the light may take a few drives to go off.
Will the check engine light go off by itself?
Sometimes, if the problem was temporary. But if the fault is still there, the light will stay on or come back. Having the code read tells you whether it’s something that needs fixing.
Do I need an appointment?
Walk-ins are welcome. Calling ahead at (301) 762-1200 usually gets you in faster.
Bring your car in
New Level Auto Service, 716 E Gude Dr, Rockville, MD 20850. Walk-ins are welcome, but calling ahead gets you faster service.
- Phone (301) 762-1200
- Hours Monday to Friday 8 AM to 5 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 2 PM
- Extras Night drop available and 24-hour emergency towing
- Payment Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express
