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?


Understanding the Importance of Car Diagnostics
Car diagnostics are essential for detecting issues before they evolve into costly repairs. These services provide a detailed insight into your vehicle's health, identifying concerns that may not be immediately visible. With the potential to avert significant mechanical problems, diagnostics help maintain your car’s performance and safety.
Key benefits of regular diagnostics:
- Preventive Maintenance: Early detection of issues saves money and extends vehicle life.
- Improved Performance: Ensure optimal engine function and fuel efficiency.
- Safety Assurance: Identify potential hazards before they become serious threats.
Beyond preventing mechanical failures, car diagnostics also play a crucial role in maintaining your vehicle's resale value. A well-documented history of regular diagnostics and maintenance can positively influence potential buyers, showing them that your vehicle has been well cared for. This advantage translates into better offers and more advantageous selling conditions if you ever decide to trade in or sell your car.
Our Comprehensive Diagnostic Process
At Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids, we have refined our diagnostic process to ensure comprehensive and transparent evaluations. Our goal is to provide clear, actionable insights into your vehicle's condition, empowering you to make informed decisions about necessary repairs and maintenance.
The diagnostic steps we follow include:
- Initial Consultation: We discuss any issues you've noticed while driving.
- Advanced Testing: Using state-of-the-art equipment, we perform a thorough scan of your vehicle's systems.
- Review & Explanation: Our technicians clearly explain the findings, avoiding technical jargon to promote understanding.
- Solution Options: We present repair or maintenance options tailored to your specific needs.
Moreover, we understand that each customer has unique needs and preferences. Our diagnostic process is personalized to consider your driving habits and future plans for your vehicle. Whether you’re planning long road trips or mainly city driving in Grand Rapids, our tailored approach ensures that your vehicle is prepared for whatever lies ahead.
Contact us today at (616) 739-6125 or online to schedule your car's computer diagnostic today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Car Diagnostic Test?
A car diagnostic test is an analysis method that collects data from your vehicle's onboard computer, pinpointing issues affecting your car's performance. This test checks various components, including the engine, transmission, exhaust systems, and more, to identify areas that may require attention. By addressing these issues early, you reduce the risk of major mechanical failures.
How Often Should I Get a Car Diagnostic Test?
While the specific frequency can depend on your vehicle's make and model, a general rule of thumb is to have a diagnostic test conducted every 12 months. Additionally, if you notice any changes in your vehicle's performance, such as strange noises or reduced efficiency, it's advisable to schedule an immediate diagnostic check to prevent further complications.
Can I Perform a DIY Car Diagnostic Test?
While there are consumer-level diagnostic tools available, they often lack the accuracy and comprehensiveness of professional equipment. ASE-certified technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids possess the expertise and advanced diagnostic technology required to identify issues accurately and provide reliable solutions, ensuring your car is in the best hands.
What Are the Common Issues Detected During Diagnostics?
During a diagnostic test, we often detect issues such as engine misfires, transmission problems, exhaust emissions concerns, and electrical faults. Our team can immediately address these issues, advising on the best course of action to restore your vehicle to peak performance. Regular diagnostics help prevent these common issues from spiraling into more serious, costly repairs.
Why Is My Car's Check Engine Light On?
Your vehicle's check engine light can be triggered by a variety of issues, ranging from a loose gas cap to more serious engine trouble. A diagnostic test is crucial in identifying the exact cause, allowing you to address the problem promptly. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to severe mechanical failures, which is why professional diagnostics are essential.
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.