What to Do When Your Check Engine Light Comes On

August 27, 2018 · 3 min read

The check engine light can be a terrifying thing. You are driving along and all the sudden there it is, the glowing yellow light with a mysterious meaning. Some problems are easy to fix, while others will require a trip to a professional dealership. Here are four things that your check engine light might be trying to tell you and what you should do about them.

Loose or Faulty Gas Cap

Many modern vehicles have a sensor at the gas cap that generates a code if the cap is broken or has not been installed correctly. If the check engine light comes on soon after you have filled up the tank, check to make sure that there aren't any cracks in the cap and then replace the cap, being careful to get it screwed in tightly. Though not critical to your car's function, a loose or faulty gas cap can lead to lower gas mileage and higher vehicle emissions.

Overheating or Oil Pressure

When the check engine light comes on, you should immediately look at all the other gauges and readings on your dashboard. Look specifically for low oil pressure or a high reading on the engine coolant temperature gauge. These issues are very serious and require that you stop driving immediately and get your car to a professional mechanic. Many vehicles have check engine light that differentiates between critical and non-critical error codes. A serious issue will be communicated by a flashing check engine light. With a solid check engine light, you'll probably have time to drive the vehicle to the mechanic.

Oxygen Sensor

Your vehicle controls the flow of fuel and air to your engine using a series of oxygen sensors that assure that the system is working optimally. When one of these sensors goes out, your vehicle lacks the information to run efficiently. In most cases, a faulty oxygen sensor will throw a code that triggers the check engine light. This error is not immediately critical but should be dealt with by a professional dealership so that your car runs at peak performance.

Spark Plugs and Wires

Spark plugs seal the combustion chamber on your engine and provide the gap for the spark to jump across to initiate combustion. Old and dirty plugs can misfire causing hesitations in acceleration and the check engine light to come on. In older vehicles spark plugs should be changed every 25,000 to 30,000 miles. With newer cars, that mileage can go up to 100,000. In either case, if your check engine light comes on, it is worth having a mechanic evaluate the spark plugs. Check engine lights can be daunting, but the good news is that most of the time the light is associated with a code. These codes are readable by a professional dealership mechanic. If your check engine light comes on, but your vehicle isn't showing any other signs of malfunction, it is best to get to a mechanic promptly to have the code read and the problem repaired. If the light is flashing or your vehicle is not acting normal, pull over immediately and arrange to have your vehicle brought to a certified technician like those at Ourisman Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep of Alexandria for service. Image via Flickr by yourbestdigs/Under use by CC BY 2.0

Oct 31, 2026

2026 Section 179 Tax Deduction: Put Your Next Business Vehicle to Work in Alexandria, VA

The federal tax code is not famous for producing moments of automotive excitement. Yet Section 179 contains a provision that might make a business owner look at a Ram pickup or Jeep SUV with renewed enthusiasm. For qualifying businesses in Alexandria, Arlington, Springfield, and the Washington, D.C., area, purchasing a work vehicle in 2026 could deliver a substantial first-year tax deduction. How Section 179 Works in 2026 Section 179 allows eligible businesses to deduct qualifying equipment purchases in the year the equipment enters service instead of spreading depreciation across several years. For tax years beginning in 2026, the maximum deduction is $2,560,000, with reductions beginning when qualifying equipment purchases exceed $4,090,000. That's the overall business limit, not a deduction automatically available for every vehicle. The deduction is also subject to taxable business income and other IRS requirements. The 6,000-lb. Question Vehicle eligibility hinges partly on Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, or GVWR, which represents the manufacturer's maximum permitted loaded vehicle weight. It's not the vehicle's curb weight. Many vehicles rated above 6,000 lbs. escape ordinary passenger-car depreciation limits, but heavy passenger SUVs rated between 6,001 and 14,000 lbs. generally face a separate $32,000 Section 179 cap for 2026. Certain pickups with cargo beds at least 6 feet long, qualifying cargo vans, and other exempt configurations receive different treatment. That makes checking the exact vehicle's door-jamb certification label essential. Ram Trucks: Business Equipment with License Plates For Alexandria contractors, landscapers, and service businesses, Ram pickups deserve attention. Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria has 2026 Ram 1500 configurations, including Big Horn®, Rebel®, and Warlock models. These trucks can exceed the 6,000-lb. GVWR threshold, although the shorter 5-foot-7-inch beds found on certain Crew Cab models can affect which Section 179 limits apply. A qualifying Ram 1500 with a bed exceeding 6 feet, or a properly configured Ram 2500, may receive more favorable treatment. The right choice depends on the specific truck and its working duties. Jeep SUVs for Businesses on the Move Not every business needs a pickup bed. The dealership also has 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer models, including Upland and Limited Reserve configurations. These substantial SUVs may appeal to businesses transporting clients, personnel, or equipment. Their potential Section 179 treatment depends on GVWR, business-use percentage, and the heavy-SUV deduction cap. The Grand Wagoneer's considerable size doesn't automatically make its entire purchase cost deductible under Section 179. Business Use Is the Deciding Factor A qualifying vehicle must be used more than 50% for eligible business purposes, with deductions calculated according to actual business use. Driving between job sites or visiting customers may count; ordinary commuting generally doesn't. Businesses must maintain adequate mileage and purchase records. Eligible vehicles also need to be placed in service during the relevant tax year. Additional first-year bonus depreciation may be available under current federal rules, but its interaction with Section 179 and Virginia tax treatment deserves professional review. Find Your Business Vehicle at Ourisman CDJR of Alexandria A vehicle purchase should begin with the work it needs to perform, followed by the tax advantages it may provide. Visit Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria to explore available Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs, compare configurations, and confirm vehicle weight ratings. Schedule a test drive and consult your tax professional before purchasing to determine how Section 179 could benefit your business.

Oct 02, 2026

2026 Jeep Wrangler vs. Jeep Gladiator: Which Off-Roader Fits Your Northern Virginia Lifestyle

Researching the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator is an exciting step in finding your next vehicle. Both models deliver legendary Jeep capability but serve distinct purposes. If you plan to head into the Shenandoah backcountry or navigate the suburbs, the team at Ourisman CJD serving Alexandria, VA, is ready to assist. Reach out to our dealership today for more information on finding your perfect adventure companion. What Sets the 2026 Jeep Wrangler Apart The 2026 Jeep Wrangler is the classic choice for drivers seeking maximum off-road agility in a compact SUV style. Available in two-door and four-door Unlimited configurations, it provides unmatched trail flexibility. The Wrangler features removable doors, a removable roof, a fold-down windshield, and iconic round headlights. It thrives for open air driving. Being lighter and shorter than the Gladiator makes it easier to maneuver on tight paths or in urban parking lots. What the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Brings to the Table The 2026 Jeep Gladiator takes everything drivers love about Jeep and adds a versatile pickup truck bed. It stands as the only truck in the current lineup and a rare midsize option with genuine off-road credentials. The Gladiator shares the removable roof and doors of the Wrangler, preserving the open air experience alongside impressive hauling capabilities. Keep in mind it is a longer vehicle, which matters for narrow trails or small garages. Both models feature modern cabin technology like Apple CarPlay© and Android Auto© to keep you connected on the go. Off-Road Capability Off-road performance remains front and center for both vehicles. They share core 4x4 technology, solid front and rear axles, skid plates, and trail-rated hardware. Select models offer robust capabilities, including a proven 3.6 L engine and up to 11.6" of ground clearance. Approach angles and water fording depths are highly comparable. The shorter wheelbase of the Wrangler provides a better breakover angle for uneven terrain. Alternatively, the extended frame of the Gladiator handles heavy load-bearing tasks effortlessly while feeling slightly less nimble on technical paths. Everyday Use and Practicality Daily driving comfort matters just as much as off-road performance. The Wrangler fits easily into city driving, parallel parking, and tighter roads around Alexandria. The Gladiator reigns supreme for hauling equipment, camping gear, or building materials. Its truck bed adds unmatched everyday utility. The Gladiator is the ideal practical choice for weekday work hauling and weekend trips. Find Your Jeep Today Choosing between the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator comes down to your intended use. The Wrangler delivers unmatched trail agility and open air recreation. The Gladiator provides exceptional truck utility paired with legendary four-wheel drive capability. Both vehicles uphold a strong reputation for durability. Contact Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Alexandria today to explore both models in person and schedule your test drive.

Jul 10, 2026

2026 Jeep Wrangler Technology, Color Options & Customization

The 2026 Jeep Wrangler maintains its status as America's premier open-air SUV. You might be drawn to its legendary off-road reputation, its bold colors, or its advanced technology suite. This vehicle adapts perfectly to your lifestyle. Drivers seeking adventure will find the Wrangler to be an exceptional and highly customizable choice. Visit Ourisman CDJR of Alexandria in Alexandria, VA, to discover how this SUV elevates every journey. Contact our team today for more information and start your next great adventure. 2026 Jeep Wrangler Technology Features The 2026 Jeep Wrangler stands as a highly technologically advanced vehicle. It features the adaptive Uconnect© infotainment system with a standard 12.3" touchscreen. This interface provides seamless access to navigation, media, Apple CarPlay©, and Android Auto© on the highway or deep on a trail. Modern safety and security features help drivers maintain confidence in challenging conditions. These technology integrations enhance your adventure and keep controls intuitive from the moment you take the wheel. 2026 Jeep Wrangler Color Options A thrilling update for the 2026 model year is the return of the Reign exterior paint. Back by popular demand, this vibrant purple shade brings a bold splash of personality to an already iconic vehicle. The 2026 Jeep Wrangler colors span a wide range from understated classics to statement-making shades. If you prefer a sleek aesthetic or a design that turns heads on the trail, the available color palette gives you the freedom to make the Wrangler your own. Virginia shoppers will find a strong selection across various trims to match their distinct preferences. Jeep Wrangler Customization in Alexandria, VA Customizing your Jeep Wrangler begins at the trim level. The 2026 lineup includes Sport, Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, Rubicon X, and the high-performance Rubicon 392. This variety gives buyers a broad spectrum of capability levels. Beyond trims, authentic Jeep Performance Parts from Mopar allow you to personalize your vehicle further. Rock rails, winches, steel bumpers, and suspension upgrades enhance both form and function. The quick-release door hinges and removable top make open-air customization a seamless part of the ownership experience. 2026 Jeep Wrangler Interior Features Jeep built the 2026 Wrangler interior around comfort and practicality for the active driver. The cabin pairs durable materials with modern conveniences, creating a space that withstands rugged terrain while remaining refined on city streets. The 12.3" Uconnect© touchscreen anchors the center stack, keeping driver-focused controls within easy reach. If you are heading out solo or loading up with passengers and gear, the interior layout thoughtfully supports every journey. Find Your 2026 Jeep Wrangler The 2026 Jeep Wrangler operates as a fully customizable, tech-forward off-roader reflecting your unique lifestyle. From the striking Reign paint to a broad lineup of trims and Mopar accessories, a perfect Wrangler exists for every driver. Visit Ourisman CDJR of Alexandria in Alexandria, VA, to explore our digital inventory and begin building the vehicle that fits your needs.