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.
Check Engine Light explained
Flashing Check Engine Light
If your check engine light is flashing at you, this indicates a very serious problem–such as a cylinder misfire. This could lead to a very costly and dangerous situation. Bring your vehicle in for your service immediately if your check engine light begins flashing.
Solid Check Engine Light
Even if your check engine light is solid, rather than flashing, your vehicle is still releasing an irregular amount of emissions due to a problem and should be serviced as soon as possible. Problems causing a solid check engine light can range from your engine or another crucial system–any of which can hinder your vehicle’s mileage and performance. At Christian Brothers Automotive, our skilled technicians will diagnose and fix the underlying issue, ensuring your vehicle is safe to drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep driving with the check engine light on?
A steady check engine light usually signals that you should schedule a diagnosis soon, while a flashing light can indicate a more serious issue that needs prompt attention. If the vehicle feels normal and no other warning lights are on, you can often complete a short trip and arrange service at your next opportunity. If the engine runs rough, lacks power, or you notice new noises or smells, it is safer to limit driving and have the vehicle inspected before your next regular commute.
Will a parts-store code reader tell me exactly what needs to be fixed?
A basic code reader can point to the system where the problem was detected, but it does not confirm which specific component has failed. For example, a code related to an oxygen sensor could be caused by the sensor itself, a wiring problem, or another engine condition affecting how the sensor reads. A complete diagnostic process uses more detailed data, testing, and inspection to identify the true cause, so you are not replacing good parts unnecessarily.
How long does a check engine light diagnosis usually take?
The time needed for a diagnosis depends on the type of issue and how many tests are required to confirm the cause. Simple concerns can sometimes be identified in a relatively short visit, while more complex problems may require additional checks, a longer test drive, or time for the engine computer to run its self-tests after repairs. When you schedule a visit, we discuss timing with you up front so you know what to expect and can plan your day accordingly.
Can a loose gas cap really trigger the check engine light?
Yes, a loose or damaged gas cap is one of the most common reasons for a dashboard alert. The onboard diagnostics system detects a leak in the evaporative emissions system and triggers a code. Before scheduling a full check engine light diagnosis, ensure your cap is tightened; if the light persists, our team can perform a professional scan to find the leak.
Why did my light come back on after being reset?
If a light is reset without fixing the underlying problem, the computer will eventually detect the fault again and re-illuminate the light. Our check engine light reset service is only performed after we have verified the repair. If your light returns, it often means a secondary sensor is failing, or the initial repair requires further adjustment to meet system specifications.
Will my car pass the Texas emissions inspection with the light on?
No, a lit check engine light is an automatic failure for the Texas emissions inspection. The system must be fully repaired, the codes cleared, and the "readiness monitors" must be set through normal driving before the inspection can be passed. Our Frisco check engine light service ensures your vehicle is technically prepared to meet all state requirements.
Trust the onboard diagnostics system experts to find the real problem.
Contact us online for a check engine light repair or call (214) 974-3684 to get started.
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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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"It is such a great relief knowing that "trust" is still a virtue found in business and the people who operate that business. You can find that trust in Christian Brothers Automotive in Frisco. Great people to do business with!"
- Jerry Liebenstein