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 Clarkson, 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 Clarkson, ON.
All of the above
M. Salama Apr 4, 2024
The work done here is as good as it gets. Complete transparency, with pictures and even video of work done. They are complete professionals and in my case, actually SAVED me a lot of money. Unreal. Thanks.
J F Apr 4, 2024
Service does not get any better than at Sil’s! Everyone is exceptionally helpful and the service people do an excellent job! I have recommended many people to go to Sils and now they are recommending others.
Jean Eckhart Apr 4, 2024
Another great experience at Sil’s. The experienced team provided a detailed estimate including photos, a loaner car and necessary, quality work. They changed my tires, replaced brakes, treated or replaced several fluids and got my car ready for spring travel. Thanks Sil’s for keeping my car safe and reliable!
Patty O'Connor Apr 4, 2024
Great service and super friendly
Michael Capizzano Mar 3, 2024
Have gone multiple times. Last time I went they noticed I had tires in my trunk but realized I didnt book a tire swap. They called me to clarify if that was something I wanted. SInce it was the main reason I went I was very happy they called.
Raymond Trimm Mar 3, 2024
It was a great experience at Sil's Auto Centre. I would recommend it to my friends. Let me summarize my experience in sequence: excellent advisor, drop-off to home, quick service, excellent bill explanation, electronic bill and work update, and finally, pick up from home to take the vehicle after service is done. Please keep up the excellent work.
Arun Vaidhy Mar 3, 2024
I absolutely LOVE Sil's Auto. Carlo, Susan, Tommy and their great team of mechanics take the cake for me. Their work is a 10/10 and the trust factor is reinforced over time. I would recommend anyone to Sil's without hesitation.
Melinda Prain Mar 3, 2024
The team at Sil's has kept my vehicles running smoothly for many years. Highly recommended!
Charles Muller Mar 3, 2024
I took my car to Sil's for a safety check before buying it out from the dealer. Carlo was very knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything to me, it showed that he actually cared and wanted to gain my trust - which I really appreciated as I know nothing about what goes on inside my vehicle. No more taking my care to the dealership for servicing, I'll be going to Sil's! Thanks you guys for the really great experience
Sharlene Panthaki Feb 2, 2024