Getting an engine diagnostic at your trusted local dealership is one of the best ways to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Diagnostic tests enable the technicians to identify potential issues before they turn into major repairs. Let’s look at what a diagnostic test entails and when you should get one.
What Does an Engine Diagnostic Entail?
During a diagnostic test, the technician hooks up an OBD-II scanner to access your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic computer system. The scanner reads diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) generated by your car’s computer, revealing issues with these components:
- Fuel injection components
- Oxygen sensors
- Ignition system
- Engine cooling system
- Exhaust system
- Throttle system
The test can also reveal issues with other major systems like the braking system, transmission, wheel sensors, and more. The data enables fast and accurate diagnosis of underlying problems with the engine and other major systems.
How Do You Know You Need a Diagnostic Test for Your Vehicle?
Check Engine Light Comes On
A check engine light can signal numerous problems, like oxygen sensor issues, a faulty gas cap, or issues with spark plugs, the mass airflow sensor, or the catalytic converter. The best way to pinpoint the exact problem is to get a diagnostic test. The scanner reads the error codes for each engine component and reveals the one that has failed or malfunctioned.
Illuminated Dashboard Light
Systems like the transmission, ABS, tire sensor, and traction control can trigger a warning light on your vehicle’s dashboard. Instead of playing guesswork, you should get a diagnostic test. An advanced test will reveal the error codes for all these systems, allowing the technician to quickly locate and fix the faulty components.
Engine Issues
Your car’s engine is a complex system with numerous components that work together to move the vehicle. If these components fail, you may experience issues like difficult starts, rough idling, reduced power and acceleration, poor fuel economy, or unusual sounds. Get a diagnostic test to accurately locate the failing components.
Unusual Exhaust Smoke
Excessive smoke, or dark black, blue, or white exhaust smoke is a sign something is wrong with the engine or emission system. You could be dealing with incomplete combustion, engine oil leaks, burning oil, or catalytic converter problems. Get a diagnostic to find out what’s going on under the hood.
How Often Should You Get a Diagnostic Test at Your Local Dealership?
You don’t have to wait for your engine or other systems to develop problems to get a diagnostic test. You can perform the test as part of your annual preventive maintenance to check the working condition of all systems. If there are any minor issues, you will catch them early and prevent major repair bills. Use this test as part of routine maintenance to improve your vehicle’s performance.
A diagnostic test is crucial for keeping your engine and other systems running optimally. Don’t wait for your vehicle to break down. Contact Hutch Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM to schedule a diagnostic test today!
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