Check engine light turned on after hitting a deer and having body work done

2020 JEEP CHEROKEE
7,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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KGETZ
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Recently my parents had to have work done on the front of their vehicle after hitting a deer. When the body shop replaced the hood and had to remove and reinstall the left front fender, the engine light came on. The shop called the local Jeep dealer to resolve this, but I am just curious as to why this would trigger the money light.
Dec 29, 2021 at 1:38 AM
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SQM
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Hello,

It is possible that some sensor got damaged or unplugged during the process.
The best course of action would be to scan and retrieve the code(s). Which can help determine the issue.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

If the vehicle left the body shop with the light on, they really should have scanned and checked the issue. So, you might want to give them a call to see if they will take care of this.

Is the vehicle running normal or are you having drivability issues?

Let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.
Dec 29, 2021 at 2:17 PM
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KGETZ
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The body shop had it resolved before my Parents picked it up. I just wasn't sure if there was a sensor attached to (say) the hood latch. Some newer cars have those sensors on the hood latch in case it isn't properly latched, but then again, I'm preaching to the choir.
Dec 31, 2021 at 3:31 AM
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SQM
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So, it is taken care of. That is good news.

If the hood is not latched properly, the sensor will trigger a warning light on the information center stating that the hood is open. The engine light should not get turned on for the latch.
Dec 31, 2021 at 8:32 PM