When it comes to our cars, we all want them to run as smoothly and efficiently as possible. And one of the most important systems that help make this happen is the emission system. This system is responsible for getting rid of harmful toxins that are released when the car is running. Unfortunately, this system can malfunction in a number of ways, causing the toxins to be released into the air that you and your passengers breathe. That doesn’t only cause problems for your vehicle, it could also lead you to fail a car emission test that’s a requirement for most states.

That’s why it’s important to be aware of the most common emission system problems so that you can get your car fixed as soon as possible if something goes wrong. Here are four of the most common issues:

Faulty Oxygen Sensor

One of the most important components of the emission system is the oxygen sensor. This sensor monitors the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and sends signals to the engine control unit (ECU) to make adjustments accordingly. If the oxygen sensor is not working properly, it can cause the engine to run lean or rich, which can lead to increased emissions.

Catalytic Converter Issues

Another common problem that can lead to excess emissions is a faulty catalytic converter. The key function of the catalytic converter is to reduce harmful emissions, but if this component isn’t working properly, then it won’t be able to do its job effectively. This will lead your car to release more harmful toxins into the air.

Blockage in the Exhaust System

If there are blockages or restrictions in your car’s exhaust system, such as carbon build-up, your engine may not be able to expel all of its waste gases efficiently. This can cause an increase in harmful emissions and decrease fuel economy.

Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor

Finally, one other issue that can lead to increased emissions is a faulty mass airflow sensor (MAF). This sensor measures how much air enters the engine so that the ECU can adjust the amount of fuel that’s mixed with it. If there is a problem with this sensor, it will be unable to measure and send signals properly, resulting in excess emissions.

If you notice that your car has any of these issues or other problems with its emission system, it’s important to get them fixed as soon as possible. This will help ensure that your car runs smoothly and efficiently while also protecting the environment from harmful toxins. And by taking care of these problems early on, you’ll save yourself money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs down the road.