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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive with the check engine light on?
If the light is steady, the vehicle is usually safe to drive to a shop, though you may experience reduced fuel economy. However, if the check engine light is flashing, you should pull over and have the vehicle towed immediately. A flashing light signifies a serious engine misfire that can cause permanent and expensive damage to your engine and catalytic converter.
Why did my light come on after I got gas?
A very common cause for a check engine light service in San Antonio is a loose or faulty gas cap. The car's computer monitors the pressure in the fuel tank to prevent vapors from escaping. If the cap isn't tightened or the seal is cracked, the system detects a leak and triggers the light. Always ensure your cap is clicked into place after refueling.
Will a check engine light cause me to fail an inspection?
Yes, in the state of Texas, a vehicle cannot pass a safety or emissions inspection if the check engine light is illuminated. The light indicates that the vehicle's emissions controls are not functioning correctly. We recommend scheduling check engine light diagnostics well before your registration renewal to ensure your vehicle is compliant and ready for the road.
Can I just clear the code myself to turn off the light?
While you can clear a code with a basic scanner, the light will almost always return because the underlying problem hasn't been fixed. Furthermore, clearing codes resets the "readiness monitors" that emissions stations check. Our automotive service focuses on repairing the actual fault, which naturally turns the light off and keeps it off for the long term.
Does a check engine light always mean an expensive repair?
Not at all. Many triggers for a check engine light are relatively inexpensive fixes, such as replacing a worn spark plug, a dirty air sensor, or a loose vacuum hose. The key is catching the issue early. Neglecting a small problem often leads to a chain reaction that damages more expensive components, like the catalytic converter or engine valves.
Don't let a dashboard warning turn into a roadside breakdown—get the ASE-certified expertise you can trust.
Book your expert automotive service online or call (210) 960-9763 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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"I want to thank Christian Brother auto for their professionalism. I had my Radiator changed at Premier1 Auto instead of Christian Brothers Auto because Premier1 quoted me $200 less. However, when I received my vehicle back it was leaking radiator fluid exc"
- Richard Adkins Jr