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 Erindale, 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 Erindale, ON.
Caught a nail in a tire New Years Day as well as a part that was fixed on warranty and the great team at Sil’s had me back up and running right away on the January 2. Fast service
Peter J Thompson Jun 6, 2025
You can trust Sil's auto service to do their job accurately and to repair only what needs to be done.
Sandra Rumfeldt Jun 6, 2025
Phenomenal job, great customer service. Susan is super nice, I had many questions beyond repairing my car and she just kept deliver. Vehicle Condition Report is the star of the show, my friend seen it and want one too, first time I’ve see it and loved it. Visit and you won’t be disappointed.
Robert R Jun 6, 2025
Incredible customer service - always extremely thorough and deliver great service! I love their use of digital technology to make things very efficient. I trust Sil’s with all my vehicle needs!
Lacey Jackson Jun 6, 2025
Honest, competent guys. I like that they organize the report by severity and don't press you into getting anything done. My only issue is the washer fluid charge but that's just a few bucks.
Houssam H May 5, 2025
Very reliable, thorough and helpful auto service. I'm so pleased & relieved that I changed to Sils auto care for maintenance on my 2006 Hyundai Azera! Very knowledgeable & professional, empathic rapport! Thank you for your reliable service! Much appreciated.
Darcea Hiltz May 5, 2025
I totally trust Sil’s with my repairs and maintenance. Customer service is amazing. Carlo, Susan and Tommy 1/10! And prices are reasonable. 5 star’s for Sil’s!
Jacqueline T May 5, 2025
SIL is a very reliable & honest auto shop that is rare to find these days. The owner Carlo who is consistent and always go extra mile for costumer satisfaction & great service. The staffs are friendly and they explain everything in details, plus, they offer a complimentary shuttle in the mornings. Several occasions that they entrusted me to drive their shuttle home due to driver's unavailability. This SIL auto shop is highly recommended. 👍
Mark Lorenzana May 5, 2025
I want to thank the team at Sil's Auto Care Centre in Oakville for their outstanding service and customer care—especially Tommy and Susan, who have supported and looked after us over the past six years. I highly recommend their services.
Henrique Pérez-Matos May 5, 2025
We always receive excellent service from Susan, since 6 years we have been bringing our car to this company for maintenance , Susan and her team always asking and giving us the best advise we recommend them 100%.
MARIANA SALAS May 5, 2025