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.
Flashing vs. Solid Check Engine Light
Not every check engine light signals the same level of urgency. A flashing check engine light means an active problem, often a cylinder misfire, is occurring right now and can cause immediate engine damage. If your light is flashing, pull over safely and arrange to have the vehicle brought in rather than continuing to drive it.
A solid, steady check engine light means a fault has been stored in the system. It’s less immediately dangerous, but it still warrants prompt attention. Ignoring it can allow the underlying issue to affect fuel economy, emissions, or performance over time.
In both cases, the right move is professional check engine light diagnostics, not clearing the code and hoping it stays off.
What to Expect at Your Diagnostic Appointment
Start by scheduling online or by phone and describing what you’re noticing, whether it’s just the light or other symptoms like rough idling or reduced power. Our skilled technicians then perform a full inspection and check engine light diagnostics using manufacturer-quality equipment. When the diagnosis is complete, you’ll receive a DVI report with photos and video via text. A service advisor reviews the findings with you, and you can also approve work directly through the DVI link. Most repairs can be completed the same visit, depending on parts and availability.
Common Reasons the Check Engine Light Turns On
A stored diagnostic trouble code (DTC) tells technicians which system or circuit is involved. It doesn’t identify the specific failed component on its own. That’s why interpreting the code in the context of a full vehicle inspection matters. Some of the most frequent causes our team diagnoses include:
- Loose or faulty gas cap: One of the simplest fixes, but it still turns the light on and stores a code.
- Failing oxygen sensor: Affects fuel mixture calculations and can reduce fuel economy over time.
- Worn catalytic converter: Impacts emissions and engine efficiency if left unaddressed.
- Misfiring spark plugs or ignition coils: Can cause rough running and, if severe, a flashing light.
- Faulty mass airflow sensor: Disrupts the air-fuel ratio and can affect performance.
- Vacuum leaks: Can produce a range of symptoms depending on location and severity.
Vehicles from 1996 onward use the OBD-II system, which stores codes and live sensor data. Technicians use that data as a starting point, not a final answer.
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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"You guys repaired my daughter’s car today, and I can’t express the comfort that I feel as a Dad knowing that she has a conscientious repair shop to take care of her. You took the time to explain the needed repairs to her and assured her that ev"
- Jeff Taylor