What to Expect with a Check Engine Light Diagnostic Service
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.
Did You Know: On average, cars spend 95% of their lifetime parked.
Why It's Important to Address a Check Engine Light Early
When your check engine light turns on, it's more than a minor inconvenience. If you ignore it, small problems can escalate.
Early intervention can:
- Prevent More Expensive Repairs: Addressing an issue right away can keep it from developing into something worse, like engine or transmission damage.
- Preserve Your Vehicle's Performance: Keeping your engine in good shape means smoother trips and fewer interruptions.
- Increase Fuel Efficiency: Many check engine issues cause poor fuel efficiency. Tackling them early saves money on gas.
- Prevent Emissions Problems: Letting issues go can lead to high emissions and failed inspections, or even fines in some cases.
North Carolina requires most vehicles to pass safety and emissions tests before you can renew your registration. Fixing check engine concerns promptly helps you avoid delays and ensures your car passes inspection the first time. Our proactive approach keeps you compliant and protects the value of your car.
What to Expect During Your Visit
When you bring your vehicle to Christian Brothers Automotive Apex in Apex, expect a clear and straightforward process from start to finish. Our team greets you and explains the check-in steps and timing. We use your car’s data and a physical inspection to confirm issues right away. Throughout the process, we keep you up to date, so there are no surprises and no rushed conversations.
While we assess your car, you can wait in our comfortable lounge or use our complimentary shuttle to travel around Apex. We respect your time and provide regular updates, so you always know your status. Before work starts, we walk you through our findings and your options in plain language—no technical talk. You understand each step, making car care less stressful. After service, we answer follow-up questions so you leave confident in your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?
The check engine light comes from your car’s onboard diagnostics system. It means your vehicle found an issue, which might be minor or severe. Some causes include a bad oxygen sensor, a faulty catalytic converter, or a mass airflow sensor problem. Ignoring this light often leads to bigger and more costly repairs.
Can I Drive with the Check Engine Light On?
Driving with the check engine light on is risky, even if the car seems to drive normally. The warning means your car’s system noticed a problem that needs attention. Ignoring it could lead to more expensive repairs or affect your safety. If your check engine light flashes, stop as soon as possible and contact Christian Brothers Automotive Apex—flashing lights often signal severe engine misfires.
A flashing check engine indicator could mean a misfire that might damage your catalytic converter. Addressing the problem right away keeps your car safe and operating efficiently. Consistent maintenance and prompt repairs prevent long-term damage.
What Should I Do When My Check Engine Light Comes On?
If your check engine light turns on, stay calm and act quickly. Check for other symptoms like strange sounds or poor performance. Schedule an appointment for a diagnostic test to pinpoint the cause. At Christian Brothers Automotive Apex, our team uses advanced diagnostic tools for a thorough check.
Before your appointment, tighten your gas cap just in case. If the light stays on, come in for a complete diagnostic review. We’ll explain the findings, answer your questions, and walk you through the solution.
How Do Technicians Diagnose the Check Engine Light Issues?
Technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive Apex use diagnostic scanners to read codes saved in your vehicle’s system. These codes guide our team in identifying whether the issue is with the fuel system, exhaust, or other components. This process leads to targeted repairs that get your car back to normal quickly.
Once we read the diagnostic codes, we inspect your vehicle’s key systems to confirm the problem. This hands-on approach, combined with advanced tools, ensures every concern is addressed, and repair recommendations suit your vehicle’s needs.
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FAQs
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Q. "What is the difference between a steadily lit and a flashing check engine light?"A steadily lit light means that a sensor is sending a signal to your vehicle's computer that something is wrong or it could simply mean that the sensor is out. If your check engine light is flashing, however, that means there is a serious issue and you should stop driving immediately.
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Q. "Why is my check engine light on but nothing seems to be wrong with my vehicle?"If nothing within your vehicle stands out, then it is possible that it is just a minor issue such as a loose gas cap or a bad O2 sensor. It is still recommended to see a mechanic if the light doesn't disappear to check for any larger issues.
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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.
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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. "Is it safe to drive your car when the check engine light is on?"It depends. If you are experiencing other noticeable issues with your vehicle, it may be best to pull over. Otherwise, it is typically okay to drive to your local auto shop. You will want to get this checked sooner rather than later to avoid being stranded with a broken-down car.
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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"Today i had some concerns with my vehicle after being quoted a few thousand dollars for repair work at a dealership. First i called into the apex location and was PLEASANTLY surprised at the transparency your staff provided me. I asked for the cost and was"
- Caleb