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Car Diagnostics: What’s Involved

Just as you go to your doctor for regular checkups, your car should be checked regularly too. That’s why there’s car diagnostics testing that allows you to discover any potential problems before they become bigger and costlier issues down the road — or leave you stranded on the side of the road. 

But what is involved in a car diagnostics test, and why are they so important? At City Auto Repair, we have kept cars performing as they should for the last 40 years. Read on for our insight into how car diagnostics make that possible. 

Understanding Car Diagnostics Tests 

A car diagnostics test is a way that automotive technicians can inspect a car using special software and diagnostic tools as well as the car’s processors, sensors, and microchips to accurately diagnose any potential problems. Technicians are also able to check a car’s computer to see any stored information on the vehicle as well as manufacturer updates.  

A diagnostic test can reveal issues with the components of your car, including the following:

However, it’s worth noting that while a car dialogists test will reveal which system is not running as it should, it still takes a knowledgeable and experienced automotive technician to pinpoint exactly what is going wrong. 

The Benefits of a Car Diagnostic Test

In previous decades, people often only brought their cars in once they experienced a breakdown or other malfunction. Then, it was time-consuming and costly for technicians to identify problems. Today’s diagnostics testing technology allows car owners to be proactive rather than reactive with their vehicle’s health.

When Should I Get a Car Diagnostic Test?

Rather than waiting until something goes wrong, it’s a good idea to have a diagnostic test run on your vehicle at least once per year or if you think something needs to be addressed. Diagnostic tests are also useful if you’re thinking about purchasing a used car to ensure you’re getting a safe, reliable vehicle. 

Automotive technicians use a scan tool to read the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) code. This allows them to troubleshoot your car’s various components to check for future complications. 

Using the auto scanner, technicians can detect problems with ignition timing and coils, fuel injector performance, engine RPM levels, air and coolant temperatures, crankshaft and camshaft position, and combustion engine buildup. Read more Frequently Asked Car Diagnostic Questions.

The Value of Professional Diagnostics 

While many car owners elect to run their own diagnostics tests, there are several reasons why having a professional one completed is much smarter. First, the tools used by a professional automotive technician are far superior to the cheap diagnostic tools you can get online. Second, repair shops like ours stay informed about the latest and greatest diagnostics tools each year so you can be assured that the test is comprehensive and able to accurately diagnose any potential issues with your car. 

Trust Your Car Diagnostics to City Auto Repair

Your car’s engine is a complex system of parts you shouldn’t have to worry about, and staying informed about your car’s health can help you avoid annoying or dangerous breakdowns or malfunctions. Instead, trust the caring and knowledgeable automotive technician team at City Auto Repair. We’ve spent 40 years helping our customers identify possible issues and repairing them before they have gotten worse or the car has suffered a major breakdown or malfunction. Schedule an appointment to gain peace of mind and have car diagnostics run on your vehicle today.