The orange engine-shaped icon also known as the check engine light gives an indication whenever there is something wrong with your car.

The check engine light warns you about issues ranging from a gas cap that is not tightened to more complex issues like a failure of the catalytic converter.

Here are the common problems that can illuminate the check engine light in hot weather.

The oxygen sensor is used to measure the amount of unburnt oxygen in a car’s exhaust system which is a very important function.

It sends data to the vehicle’s computer, which uses it to regulate the mixture of air and fuel that enters the cylinders and if it fails, then the car will burn more fuel than usual.

In the long run, a bad O2 sensor can damage components like the spark plugs and the catalytic converter and It may also lead to your car failing an emission test.

A loose gas cap is one of the most common reasons during the hot weather for which the check engine light turns on.

The cap is a crucial part of a car’s fuel-delivery system & prevents gasoline fumes from leaving the fuel tank and it helps keep the whole system under the correct pressure.

If your check engine light turns on immediately after a fill-up, stop over and make sure the cap isn’t loose or hasn't fallen off.

A catalytic converter is integrated into a vehicle’s exhaust system and converters the carbon monoxide generated during the combustion process into carbon dioxide.

The catalytic converter is not a complex component and when there are some issues, it can be rectified easily.

Moreover, regular maintenance goes a long way in preventing any issues with the catalytic converter which is a good news.

However, if you mostly drive short distances, then take your car on the highway every now and then to ensure the catalytic converter doesn’t get clogged.

Moreover, always keep a close watch for unusual sounds or discolored smoke coming from the exhaust.

The ignition coil generates the electricity and the spark plugs need to ignite the fuel and air mixture in the cylinders to start the car.

However, a malfunctioning spark plug in hot weather will certainly trigger the check engine light but if your car burns diesel, you have neither ignition coils nor spark plugs.

Moreover, worn or fouled plugs can cause a variety of issues including an engine misfire and hesitation under heavy acceleration.

These are some of the reasons behind your check engine light illuminating in hot weather.

Whenever you come across illuminating check engine light, then take your car to an automotive shop to diagnose and fix the issue.