A warning light on the dash of your vehicle is a clear indication that something is wrong. When this occurs, the best option for drivers is to seek a professional vehicle repair shop right away. Keep in mind, not all diagnostics tests are created equal. In fact, there are many benefits of using a trained service technician to evaluate your diagnostic codes. There is also a big difference between pulling or scanning for fault codes and a professional approach to vehicle diagnostics.
You may wonder why paying a qualified technician for an accurate diagnosis is a good investment. The reason is simple—trouble codes are just the beginning of the auto repair process. If you do not get the correct diagnosis on the first try, you will end up paying a lot more for repairs.
Why do we charge for diagnostics?
Modern vehicles are manufactured with complicated, interrelated systems that skilled and qualified mechanics must thoroughly understand. The onboard computer systems are designed to continuously monitor and store information concerning how a vehicle's system performs. If a warning light comes on, it is because the computer has sensed a signal from one of the components or systems. This means something, somewhere, has gone outside of the normal range of operation. The computer in the vehicle will then send a signal to illuminate a dashboard malfunction light or display and let you know something is not right.
There are countless reasons a warning light can appear. Trained professionals can use a variety of diagnostic skills and the trouble code to make an accurate diagnosis of a vehicle. There is no question diagnostic testing is essential for identifying auto problems. This is the only way to receive a definitive answer to the issue.
What are the benefits of using trained service technicians to evaluate your diagnostic codes?
When you take your vehicle to a professional auto repair service, they will have the tools, technology, and training to handle your concerns. There are many benefits of using trained service technicians to evaluate your diagnostic codes. We've outlined the three-step process that will be completed during diagnostic testing:
- Retrieving the data: The service professional will attach a scan tool to analyze the onboard computer system and retrieve computer codes, sensor data, version of the software, and freeze frame data.
- Verification testing: If the code indicates specific issues, additional testing will be done to see the issue.
- Pinpoint testing: This is performed to provide an absolute diagnostic determination. Additional tests are performed using the vehicles onboard diagnostic system and the manufacturer-specific interface.
There are several advantages of using diagnostics for check engine warning lights. The service goes beyond just "pulling codes." It provides a definite answer to what is going on with the vehicle. An auto parts store can offer you the code, but you must use the code along with knowledge of vehicles to make an accurate assessment of what type of repair is required. From there, you must determine the necessary parts to purchase. If you are not skilled in this complicated process, you could waste a significant amount of money.
Why Reading Codes Is Not Diagnostics
Again, you may be asking why paying qualified technicians for an accurate diagnosis is a good investment. The fact is, reading code is not always going to find the underlying cause of the issue. The trouble codes are just the beginning of the auto repair process. Someone working at an auto parts store or general repair shop is not going to have the same ability or access to training and technology to fix an issue that a specialized professional technician will. To obtain an accurate diagnosis, it is essential to leave your vehicle in the hands of the professionals.
Furthermore, reading codes is just one step in the diagnostic process. Examining the complete vehicle systems are also essential to make a full assessment of how well a vehicle is running. Diagnostics takes much more skill and precision than simply pulling codes. By using a specialized auto repair shop, you can quickly head off minor problems before they become necessary expensive repairs.
If you need more information about diagnostic services and why they are necessary, contact the professional staff at Madison Motorwerks. Here, you can have all your questions answered, and you can feel confident that the service you receive is worth the investment. Remember, the right diagnosis leads to the right repair.
