So there's something not quite right about the way your vehicle is driving, or you've got a warning light on your dashboard that was blinking at you yesterday and now it is on steady. What makes a warning light come on? |
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Some of the potential causes for a check warning light are not properly tightening your gas cap to engine, transmission or braking system performance issues. While warning lights can go on and the car still appears to be driving "fine", ignoring some lights can lead to serious issues, such as engine damage or other component failure. In some instances, this can be a safety hazard. That's why it is recommended to be safe (give yourself peace of mind) and have your car looked at by a certified professional as soon as possible. |
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1. RETRIEVE DATA - A full functioning scan tool is used to perform an onboard computer system analysis in order to retrieve the following:
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2. VERIFICATION TESTING - Verification tests determine if systems meet proper specifications. These tests may include an analysis of:
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3. PINPOINT TESTING - All manufacturers require that circuit or component pinpoint testing is done in order to make an absolute diagnostic determination. These actions involve:
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| 4. RESEARCH TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS - Technical Service Bulletins and hotline information will indicate if the problem has been determined to be a pattern failure, meaning that it is a known issue that occurs with a particular type of vehicle. This does not eliminate the need for testing, as other systems must meet specifications before a service bulletin procedure should be performed. | 5. CAR REPAIR - This may involve multiple actions such as:
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6. VERIFY REPAIR - Once all necessary actions have been taken, the vehicle must be retested to verify that the repair is complete and has achieved the proper results. |
How long will it take to diagnose my problem? Do I need an appointment? Yes |
How much will it cost? |
Why does my parts store offer to "do my check engine light" for free? Parts stores capabilities are limited to only reading the stored trouble codes, but they do not then perform the diagnostic procedures to determine what is exactly required to fix your vehicle. |
What are examples of drive ability issues that require diagnostics?
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