Does a bad distributor cause your check engine light to come on?

Yes, a faulty distributor can cause your check engine light to come on. The distributor is responsible for directing the electrical spark to the correct cylinder at the right time; if it malfunctions, it can lead to misfires, poor engine performance, and increased emissions, which can trigger the check engine light. Other components may also cause the light to illuminate, so it's essential to diagnose the issue properly.