Computerizing a car’s components has been one of the technological developments in the automotive industry over the years that’s proved to be the most advantageous to consumers and auto mechanics alike.
A car diagnostic test is a process that involves using specialized equipment to scan a vehicle’s onboard computer system to identify and diagnose any potential issues or malfunctions.
The onboard computer system, known as the engine control module (ECM), constantly monitors various sensors and systems in the vehicle, such as the engine, transmission, brakes, and emissions.
A diagnostic test can reveal any issues with these systems and help pinpoint the root cause of the problem. The results of a diagnostic test can be used to guide necessary repairs and maintenance, ensuring that the vehicle is operating at optimal performance and efficiency.
A car diagnostic test typically involves connecting a specialized scanner or diagnostic tool to the vehicle’s OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) port, which is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
The diagnostic tool communicates with the vehicle’s ECM and retrieves any stored trouble codes, which are unique codes that indicate the source of the problem. The codes can provide valuable information about various systems in the vehicle, such as the engine, transmission, emissions, and more.
Once the codes are retrieved, a skilled technician will use their expertise to analyze the data and identify the underlying issue. This information can help guide necessary repairs and maintenance, ensuring that the vehicle is operating at optimal performance and efficiency.
A diagnostic test is crucial because it can help point a mechanic to the part of your car that needs the most care when the Check Engine light turns on or is acting up.
Without diagnostic testing, a technician would have to spend a lot of time figuring out any issues, and you would have to pay for the labour, which is rather expensive!
The only reliable way to identify the problem is through a diagnostic test, even though most automotive centres and automotive parts distributor stores offer a free scan of your onboard diagnostics to help identify the area responsible for the code.
The following are some of the most common reasons that your check engine light has been turned on:
Your gas tank system’s pipes and valves circulate and prevent the escape of gasoline fumes. This small element alone will easily turn on the check engine light if the gas cap is unsecured. A broken or missing gas cap might result in fuel loss from evaporation or improper fuel system circulation, which is one of the more manageable CEL-related problems.
Your engine’s cylinders are powered by combustion, produced when your spark plugs ignite a mixture of fuel and air. If they aren’t firing properly, your engine may misfire, producing higher hydrocarbon emissions and less efficiency.
To help safeguard the environment, the catalytic converter changes carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. A malfunctioning one could prevent you from passing emissions testing because it will decrease performance and fuel efficiency, and raise emissions.
To determine how much fuel is needed to run the engine, the amount of air entering the engine must be measured. That’s the job of the mass airflow sensor (MAS). The MAS is susceptible to oil and dirt buildup, so cleaning it might do the trick.
Before the invention of automobile diagnostic testing, locating issues was time-consuming and expensive, especially considering that owners of cars only brought them to mechanics after a breakdown or other serious defect.
Nowadays, computerized auto parts can spot issues long before they result in a breakdown. To provide specialists with a complete picture and the best possible repair, diagnostic equipment can also analyze a car’s computer system for manufacturer notifications and stored information about the car’s history.
Looking to make your car truly functional? Sil’s Auto Care Centres in Bronte, ON can help with their car diagnostic services. By bringing your car in for diagnostics, the experts at Sil’s can identify any issues or potential problems with your vehicle’s systems and components.
With modern cars becoming increasingly complex, it can be challenging to identify issues without specialized diagnostic tools. By relying on Sil’s Auto Care Centres for car diagnostics, you can be sure that your vehicle is in good hands. Addressing issues early on can help prevent more significant and costly problems from developing over time, ensuring that your car stays functional and reliable.
Trust Sil’s Auto Care Centres for all your car diagnostic needs in Bronte, ON.
Sil's is the only Auto Service provider that our extended family uses (5 cars in total). Whether it's regular maintenance or "emergency" fixes needed, Carlo and his team look after us promptly, and very fairly. Invoices are clearly laid out and there is follow up the next day after each visit to make sure things are good. I would highly recommend Sil's as the place to take your vehicle if you're anywhere in Oakville or Mississauga.
Doug Smith Oct 10, 2024
Best experience Ive had at an auto body shop in my 15 years of driving. First time customer, will be returning for any and all future car needs. Had been running around trying to diagnose a problem with my vehicle across multiple different mechanics, it was a very inconvenient situation having to try and manage dealing with addressing the issue and work life at the same time. Stumbled upon Sil’s online, saw the wonderful reviews it had received and noticed the “shuttle service/loaner vehicle” description, which caught my attention obviously as that would be extremely helpful with not missing any time at work. Right away when you walk in you can see/sense the professionalism, I’ve never seen a front office look in an auto body shop, They take a great deal of pride in their work and the transparency I received (via text and email) after they inspected/diagnosed my car was out of this world. Nothing I’ve ever experienced with other mechanics even came close to the detail. I walked in for the first time a complete stranger had the pleasure of speaking with Carlo, After talking for a few minutes and going for a quick drive with one of the mechanics, I was ready to leave my car in their hands for them to do the job and I was given a loaner vehicle free of charge as a complete stranger just leaving my credit card on file and a photocopy of my ID. This was Monday, My car was ready by noon Wednesday, Driving like new. 11/10Experience, 5 Stars, ect ect, Would hands-down recommend to anyone that would listen to me. Thank you to the whole team at Sil’s from one of what I imagine is MANY satisfied customers.
Jordan Granato Oct 10, 2024
Sil's always does a great job, and they stand behind their work. I would highly recommend them.
KFH Oct 10, 2024
Great service and felt I can really trust this garage to do good work at a good price.
Anil Patel Oct 10, 2024
I took my car to Sils after a very bad experience with our Jeep dealer. They were professional, honest and provided us with exceptional customer service. They will be our go to people for any other car issues we may have. Special shout out to Tommy and John! Nina H
Nina Hundertmark Oct 10, 2024
Went there for my 3rd service,amazing staff,helpful,especially Corey and Susan.So polite and they made sure everything has been checked.Returned the car with care,serviced,vacuumed,air pressure topped up and my car was low on coolant that was filled too.Highly recommended.They definitely got a customer for life with that service.
yatharth rohatgi Sep 9, 2024
I've been a customer of Sil's for 9 yrs and can't imagine taking my cars anywhere else. They're professional, efficient, responsive and fair. Thank you for being awesome!
Azeem Mohammed Sep 9, 2024
The best auto service center, bar none. Great professional staff. Keep you informed as they diagnose your engines issues. Warranty provided on all parts and labour. Few shops provide this level of service and at a fair price.
Richard choronzey Sep 9, 2024
Took my 10 year old CRV in for a Safety Inspection prior to transfer to my son. Service and subsequent advice was expedient and complete. I would easily consider returning for any subsequent service requirement.
Dallas Hortness Sep 9, 2024
The team at Sil’s Complete Auto are awesome - they’re friendly, professional, and honest. I took my car to Sil’s for regular maintenance check and oil change. Service was completed in a timely manner and within quoted price. Car was even washed and vacuumed! Better service than any dealer I’ve been to. I will be coming here for all my automotive work.
Orilius MP Sep 9, 2024