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.
Free code-reading at a parts store gives you a number, not an answer. A diagnostic trouble code identifies a system or circuit operating outside normal parameters, but it doesn’t tell you which component failed, what caused it to fail, or whether a contributing condition is making things worse. Without system-level testing, there’s a real risk of replacing parts that aren’t the actual problem.
Our technicians test the systems connected to each code before recommending any repair. That process protects your budget and helps ensure the work we do addresses the true root cause, not just the symptom the code points to.
Signs You Need Professional Diagnostics
The warning light is the most obvious signal, but your vehicle often tells you more. Paying attention to how your car drives, not just what’s lit on the dashboard, helps us diagnose the issue faster. If you notice performance changes alongside the warning light, it’s time to schedule a check engine light service in Nicholasville.
Watch for these common indicators:
- Rough Idling: The engine shakes or feels unsteady when stopped at a red light, often accompanying a misfire-related code.
- Poor Fuel Economy: A sudden drop in gas mileage frequently points to a faulty oxygen sensor.
- Hard Starting: The vehicle struggles to turn over or takes several attempts to start.
- Lack of Power: Sluggish acceleration when merging onto the highway or climbing hills.
- Strong Odors: A rotten egg smell often signals 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 cautiously to the shop, but schedule service promptly. If the light is flashing, pull over immediately. A flashing light indicates an active 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, and a faulty oxygen sensor. In each case, the car’s emissions or engine control system is operating outside the manufacturer’s parameters.
How Much Does a Diagnostic Test Cost?
The exact fee varies by vehicle and issue, but professional check engine light diagnostics is an investment in accuracy. We test the system to find the root cause rather than just pulling a code, which means you can avoid spending money on parts that don’t fix the actual problem.
Will the Light Go Off on Its Own?
Sometimes. If the triggering condition was temporary, such as a loose gas cap that’s since been tightened, the light may turn off after several drive cycles. But if a component like a mass airflow sensor has failed, the light may stay on until the part is replaced and the code is cleared.
What Happens If I Ignore the Light?
Ignoring it risks reduced fuel economy, higher emissions, and collateral damage to other components. Driving with a failing ignition coil, for instance, can dump unburned fuel into the exhaust and ruin an expensive catalytic converter.
Choose the Nicholasville shop that neighbors trust. Schedule your appointment online or call (859) 549-5454 for honest, accurate service.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
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