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.
Signs You Need Professional Diagnostics
While the check engine light itself is the most obvious sign, your vehicle often exhibits other symptoms indicating an engine malfunction. Paying attention to how your car drives can help us diagnose the issue faster. If you experience performance changes along with the warning light, it is time to schedule a check engine light service in Nicholasville.
Watch for these common indicators that your system needs attention:
- Rough Idling: The engine shakes or feels unsteady when stopped at a red light.
- Poor Economy: You notice a sudden drop in gas mileage due to a faulty oxygen sensor.
- Hard Starting: The vehicle struggles to turn over or takes several tries to start.
- Lack of Power: Sluggish acceleration when merging onto the highway or climbing hills.
- Strong Odors: A smell of rotten eggs often indicates a failing catalytic converter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with my check engine light on?
If the light is steady, you can usually drive to the shop, but you should schedule check engine light service Nicholasville residents trust soon. However, if the light is flashing, pull over immediately. A flashing light indicates a severe misfire that can destroy your catalytic converter quickly.
What causes a check engine light to come on?
The most common causes include a loose gas cap, worn spark plugs, or a faulty oxygen sensor. It is your car's way of telling you that the emissions or engine control system is not working within the manufacturer's set parameters.
How much does a diagnostic test cost?
The cost varies, but paying for professional diagnostics in Nicholasville is an investment in accuracy. We don't just pull a code; we test the system to find the root cause. This prevents you from wasting money on parts that don't fix the actual problem.
Will the light go off on its own?
Sometimes, if the issue was temporary, like a loose gas cap that was tightened, the light may turn off after several drive cycles. However, if a part like a mass airflow sensor has failed, the light will stay on until the component is replaced and the code is reset.
What happens if I ignore the light?
Ignoring the light can lead to reduced fuel economy, higher emissions, and collateral damage to other parts. For example, driving with a bad ignition coil can dump unburned fuel into the exhaust, ruining the expensive catalytic converter.
Choose the Nicholasville shop that neighbors trust. Schedule your appointment online or call (859) 549-5454 for honest, accurate service.
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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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"Wow! I am so impressed with their service. and when i explained that i had a significant medical appointment, they went out of their way to complete the master cylinder replacement on my car. they are so courteous! I won't be going anywhere else!"
- Mary T