If you own a Mercedes-Benz, you've made a big investment in your automobile. Because of that, you want to take care of the maintenance. Part of that maintenance includes routine service appointments. It also includes daily monitoring—if you're not watching your dashboard warning lights, now's the time to start doing that. You can learn a lot about your car by watching these lights.

One light that you need to pay attention to is the check engine light. If your check engine light comes on, the first thing to do is change the gas cap. A faulty gas cap is one of the biggest culprits of check engine lights. If a new gas cap doesn't solve the problem, take your car to your dealership. Here are four of the reasons why your check engine light is on. 

Power Surges

If the check engine light is on in your Mercedes, there could be something wrong with the vacuum system. Were you having problems with your car before the check engine light came on? If so, there could be a leak in the vacuum system. This is especially true if your car revs at a higher RPM than usual. You might also notice brief surges while your car idles at stop lights. 

Alarm Issues

If you installed a new security alarm in your car, this could be why your check engine light is on. Many people install after-market alarms as a way to save money. But, those after-market parts can cause problems with your check engine light. This is especially true if the alarm wasn't installed properly. Installation issues can cause shorts in the electrical system. Unfortunately, this can cause your check engine light to come on. Now's the time to take your car to the dealership. 

Bad Gas Mileage

If your Mercedes isn't getting the gas mileage you're used to, there could be a problem with the O2 sensor. When you drive, your car burns fuel. As that happens, soot and carbon are deposited onto the O2 sensor. Over time, those deposits can interfere with proper engine performance. When that happens, your check engine light will come on. That's when you need to visit your local dealership. 

Low Charge

If you haven't replaced your battery in a few years, that could be why your check engine light is on in your car. If your battery doesn't have enough charge, it won't have enough power to start your car. Unfortunately, that power drain can cause your check engine light to come on. Try replacing your battery. If that doesn't solve the problem, it's time for a Mercedes-Benz engine light check.