Bringing your diesel vehicle to us follows a simple three-step process: schedule an appointment, let us diagnose the problem, then approve the work before we begin. During the diagnostic step, we conduct a free Courtesy Inspection covering major systems including lights, brakes, suspension, tires, and battery. We also provide a free Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) with actual photos of your vehicle so you can see exactly what we see before any work begins.
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
Common Diesel Engine Issues We Address
Diesel engines are durable, but specific components wear in predictable ways. Knowing what to watch for can help you avoid a much costlier repair later.
Fuel Injector Wear & Contamination
The diesel fuel injection system operates under high pressure. Injector wear or contamination affects power output, fuel economy, and cold-start performance.
Turbocharger Failure
The turbocharger forces more air into the combustion chamber to produce power. Oil starvation, heat, and normal wear are the most common causes of turbo failure.
Glow Plug Problems
Glow plugs warm the combustion chamber before startup. When they fail, hard starting in cold weather is usually the first symptom.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
The DPF captures soot from exhaust gases. Frequent short trips without highway driving can prevent the filter from completing its self-cleaning cycle, leading to restriction and reduced performance.
EGR Valve Problems
The EGR system recirculates exhaust gases back into the intake. Carbon buildup on the EGR valve is a common issue that triggers warning lights and reduces efficiency.
Fuel filter replacements and oil changes are two of the most effective ways to help prevent the costly diesel repairs described above. Diesel engines are sensitive to fuel contamination and oil degradation, so staying current on those intervals is a simple investment you can make in your engine’s longevity.
Signs Your Diesel Engine Needs Attention
Hard starting is often the first sign something is off. In a diesel engine, it can point to low compression, a fuel delivery issue, or failing glow plugs. Don’t wait for the problem to compound.
- Excessive exhaust smoke: Black, white, or blue smoke can signal different underlying issues, from unburned fuel to coolant intrusion to oil burning.
- Noticeable power loss: A drop in towing or acceleration performance often traces back to the turbocharger, fuel injectors, or a clogged DPF.
- Unusual engine noises: Knocking or rattling that wasn’t there before is worth diagnosing promptly. Diesel engines are naturally loud, but changes in sound pattern are meaningful.
Schedule Diesel Service at Christian Brothers Automotive Roanoke
If your diesel truck or passenger vehicle is showing any of these signs, or if you’re due for preventive maintenance, we’re ready to help. Our free shuttle keeps your day moving while we take care of your vehicle. Call (682) 686-7082 or book online to get started.
Power Stroke, Duramax, & Cummins: The Three Major Diesel Platforms
Most light-duty diesel pickups on the road today run one of three engine families. Ford trucks use the Power Stroke. Chevrolet and GMC trucks are fitted with the Duramax. Ram trucks carry the Cummins. Each platform has its own engineering characteristics, common failure points, and maintenance intervals. Knowing which engine you have helps you ask the right questions and plan your service schedule accurately.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
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Q. "Why is my engine misfiring?"An issue with your ignition system, fuel system, or another mechanical error can cause your engine to misfire. If your engine is misfiring, it is best to have your vehicle looked at immediately. Click here to learn more about engine misfires and their causes.
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Q. "Why is my engine overheating?"The 3 most common reasons your engine is overheating are you have a cooling system leak, a malfunctioning radiator, or a loose/broken belt.
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Q. "What to do if your check engine light turns on?"We recommend heading to your local auto shop as soon as you are able. This is typically a sign that there is an abnormality within your engine.
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Q. "Do you offer a shuttle service?"Yes! we understand you have a full schedule. Whether you need to get to work, school, or need to attend to other responsibilities, we can take you where you need to go. Click here to learn more.
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
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Q. "Can you provide service under my extended warranty?"Yes. At Christian Brothers Automotive, we work with all major extended warranty providers to make needed repairs for our customers. If you have an extended warranty, you can discuss your carrier with our team when scheduling an appointment and confirm that the work will be covered. You can find a partial list of the extended warranty companies we work with here.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"I liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.