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 Clearview, 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 Clearview, ON.
Prompt and excellent service and the staff are very easy to deal with.
Gloria Busse Jan 1, 2025
It's all good to me after they were done.
Samuel Fabok Jan 1, 2025
Have had a few opportunities to visit Sils in last year and all have been very good. We all know things go wrong with vehicles at times, and are simply seeking honest, timely and fair service, from professionals. And that’s what I have experienced at Sils each time. Even when things go awry, they step up and address the issue head on. Carlos actually stepped in to assist with a TPMS sensor issue I was having and helped resolve it quickly, and fully explained to me the issues and potential vulnerabilities with my TPMS system for my vehicle, so can better understand it, and how to manage it myself when possible. Thanks to the team- Susan, Tommy, John and Carlo for helping me out this past week, and looking forward to future support and service from the Sils Team.
christopher wicks Jan 1, 2025
The people at Sil’s Auto are very professional and courteous. The report I received on my car was complete with photos and explanations. I recommend this company for car maintenance services
Kat Andrew Jan 1, 2025
I highly recommend Sil’s for both you and your vehicle. Tommy and Susan are outstanding service advisors—consistently friendly, attentive, clear, and helpful. The owner, Carlos, exemplifies dedication; a few days before Christmas, my car had to be towed in, and despite how busy they were, he personally returned my after-hours message. They worked to ensure my car was back on the road before the holidays. The team at Sil’s consistently delivers high-quality work at competitive prices, paired with excellent customer service. They truly go above and beyond whenever possible. I fully trust Carlos and the entire Sil’s team!
Christine Barlow Jan 1, 2025
A professional and reliable auto service and repair shop, who stand by their guarantee.
Richard & Liz Elliott Dec 12, 2024
Extremely happy with the service, and very thankful for the personal care taken with my winter maintenance and repairs. Will definitely be returning to Sil's for any and all my future automotive needs.
Marty Paddenburg Dec 12, 2024
Once again out experience with Sil's was great! Love they send pics on work required and no surprises with the bill. What they quote for repairs is what you pay. Courteous and caring service reps. Glad we found them!
Judy Lessard Dec 12, 2024
Great to have a reliable and competent team servicing my car. From checking to pickup I feel Sils is one of the best in the area.
Brian Bileski Dec 12, 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 Dec 12, 2024