What to Expect With a Computer 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: It takes up to three football fields to safely brake in the rain?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean when my check engine light is flashing?
A flashing check engine light indicates a severe issue that requires immediate attention, typically an engine misfire that allows unburned fuel to enter the exhaust system. This can quickly overheat and destroy the catalytic converter, a very expensive component. You should reduce speed immediately and pull over safely to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Driving with a flashing light is not recommended; towing the vehicle to a professional shop is the safest option.
A steady light, on the other hand, indicates a less urgent but still important problem within the emissions or engine management systems. While you may be able to drive for a short period, ignoring a steady light can lead to reduced fuel economy and eventual breakdown. Our diagnostic service can decipher these signals, whether steady or flashing, to determine exactly what repair is necessary to restore safety.
How long does a car diagnostic test usually take?
The duration of a diagnostic appointment depends on the complexity of the issue. A standard scan and preliminary inspection typically take about an hour. This allows our technicians enough time to retrieve codes and perform basic verification tests. However, if the issue is an intermittent electrical fault or a complex wiring problem, further in-depth testing may be required to trace the root cause accurately.
We value your time and strive to work as efficiently as possible without cutting corners. We will provide you with a time estimate after our initial evaluation so you can plan your day accordingly. For more complex diagnostics, we offer shuttle services or status updates to keep you informed of our progress. Our goal is to be thorough so that the fix is done right the first time.
Is a diagnostic test the same as a state inspection?
No, a diagnostic test and a state inspection serve two different purposes. A state inspection is a mandatory check to ensure your vehicle meets Texas safety and emissions standards for registration. A diagnostic test is a voluntary, in-depth troubleshooting process used to identify specific mechanical or electrical failures when a problem is suspected. While an inspection checks for compliance, a diagnostic checks for cause and functionality.
However, if your vehicle fails the emissions portion of a state inspection, a diagnostic test is necessary to find out why. We use diagnostics to repair the specific failures that caused the inspection rejection, such as a faulty oxygen sensor or an evaporative leak. Once the repair is made based on our diagnostic findings, your vehicle will be ready to pass the state requirements.
Why does the diagnostic fee apply if I know the code?
Knowing the trouble code is only the first step in the repair process; it tells you what system is reporting an error, but not why. For example, an oxygen sensor code could mean the sensor is bad, or it could mean there is a vacuum leak, a wiring issue, or an exhaust leak upstream. Replacing parts based solely on a code often leads to wasted money because the root cause remains unfixed.
Our diagnostic fee covers the expertise, equipment, and time required to pinpoint the actual failure. We trace the issue to the source, ensuring that the part we replace is actually the one causing the problem. This professional verification saves you from the "parts cannon" approach and ensures a reliable, long-term repair for your vehicle.
Can I drive my car while the check engine light is on?
If the light is steady and the car seems to be driving normally, you can usually drive it for a short time, but you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible. The vehicle is likely operating in a "limp" or backup mode, which consumes more fuel and generates more pollution. Prolonged driving with a warning light can stress other components and lead to more extensive repairs down the line.
If the light is flashing or if you notice distinct performance issues like shaking, stalling, or overheating, you should stop driving immediately. Continuing to operate a vehicle with severe symptoms can turn a minor repair into an engine replacement. Safety should always be your top priority; when in doubt, call us for advice on whether it is safe to drive your vehicle to the shop.
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FAQs
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Q. "What does computer diagnostics test in my vehicle?"It tests the important components of your vehicle such as brakes, engine, transmission, etc. This allows for an accurate diagnosis of your vehicle and saves time and money for both you and the technician.
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Q. "How long does it take for computer diagnostics to be completed?"Computer diagnostics only take a few minutes to diagnose any problems within your vehicle. However, the time to repair these problems will range. Your local Christian Brothers can perform a diagnosis for you and will be able to give you a time estimate to repair your vehicle.
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Q. "How often do I need a computer diagnostic?"This varies. Whenever you take your car in for scheduled maintenance or if your vehicle is having issues, we will run a diagnostic to determine any issue with your vehicle
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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 a 3-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.