The volume of cars in Nigeria, a mix of new and used imports, has brought about an increase in related engine issues. While experienced mechanics might be capable of diagnosing some problems through visual and audio inspection, modern engine management systems call for the use of On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) scanners to accurately diagnose faults. The scanners interface with the vehicle’s Engine Control Unit (ECU), extracting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that define the source of the malfunction. This essay explains generic engine problems in Nigerian cars, which can be identified with the aid of OBD scanners, and concludes with the call for car owners to adopt professional diagnostic services.

The Elusive Check Engine Light and What it Says

The Check Engine Light (CEL) is arguably the most dreaded light on a car dashboard. When illuminated, it indicates that the ECU has detected a problem. OBD scanners decipher the underlying DTC, which can be as straightforward as a loose gas cap (triggering an Evaporative Emission Control System leak code, e.g., P0455) or as severe as engine misfires (P0300 series codes) or catalytic converter inefficiency (P0420). In the Nigerian context, where fuel quality is inconsistent, fuel-related DTCs are particularly common.

Sensor Malfunctions: A Constant Battle

Modern engines rely on a network of sensors to monitor various parameters such as air and fuel temperature, oxygen levels in the exhaust, crankshaft and camshaft position, and throttle position. Faulty sensors are not unusual.

Oxygen Sensors: They (codes P0130 – P0167) monitor the oxygen level in the exhaust stream and provide feedback to the ECU for the optimum air-fuel combination. They are susceptible to dirty fuel damage and wear and tear, impacting gas mileage and emissions.

Mass Airflow (MAF) Sensors: The MAF sensor (P0100 – P0104) tracks the amount of air being drawn into the engine, which is critical for establishing the correct fuel injection. The sensor may get contaminated by dirt and debris, resulting in false readings and a rough running engine.

Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Sensors: These sensors (P0335, P0340) are necessary to time the ignition and fuel injection. Failure of these sensors can result in a no-start or disastrous engine misfires.

Ignition System Problems: Misfires and More

The ignition system produces the spark or heat to burn the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders. Common faults are:

Misfires: DTCs from P0300 to P0309 are for misfires. These can be caused by faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors. The specification of the misfiring cylinder (e.g., P0301 for cylinder 1) allows for selective repair.

Ignition Coil Failure: Each cylinder typically has its own ignition coil. Failure of a coil will result in a misfire in that cylinder.

Spark Plug Issues: Worn-out or fouled spark plugs can result in misfires and poor engine performance.

Fuel System Issues: Pumps to Injectors

The fuel system delivers fuel to the engine. Some of the typical issues are:

Fuel Pump Failure: A faulty fuel pump (P0087, P0088, P0089) can result in low fuel pressure, causing the engine to be difficult to start and operate under load.

Fuel Injector Problems: Leaking or clogged fuel injectors (P0200 – P0212) will disrupt the air-fuel mixture and result in misfires and poor fuel economy.

Fuel Pressure Regulator Problems: A faulty fuel pressure regulator will provide either too much or too little fuel pressure, affecting engine performance.

Emission Control System Problems

Tighter emission controls are typically bypassed in Nigeria, but failures still occur and can be diagnosed.

Inefficiency of Catalytic Converter: The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions. Codes like P0420 and P0430 indicate the converter is not functioning efficiently, typically due to age or contamination from filthy fuel.

Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) Leaks: EVAP system seals the fuel vapors from releasing into the atmosphere. Leak codes like P0440 – P0457 are common, most likely caused by a loose or faulty gas cap, or damaged hoses.

Conclusion: Diagnosing Engine Problems with Expert Experience at Marco Autos

While OBD scanners provide helpful information about engine problems, it requires expertise to read the information and perform the necessary repairs. Attempting to fix complex engine problems without experience will lead to further damage and more cost. Nigeria’s poor driving conditions, poor fuel quality, and high number of old vehicles make engine problems likely. Therefore, car owners require professional diagnostic and repair services.

Marco Autos offers complete engine repair and diagnostic services, with the newest OBD scanners and highly competent technicians. We can diagnose a multitude of engine issues, from simple sensor replacements to more complex engine rebuilds. Our mission is to provide reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions to get your vehicle back on the road.

Don’t let a Check Engine Light or performance issues continue. Visit Marco Autos today for a full diagnostic scan and expert repairs to schedule an appointment. Let Marco Autos be your number one resource for keeping your vehicle’s engine in prime condition and running efficiently. We provide quality you can trust!