We’ve built our check engine light diagnostics process around one idea: you stay informed and in control at every step. Here’s how it works, from the moment you schedule to the moment your vehicle is ready.
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.
A Check Engine Light Visit That Fits Your Schedule
Our complimentary shuttle services mean you don’t have to sit and wait. We can drop you off where you need to be and pick you up when your vehicle is ready. If you need to leave your car outside of business hours, our after-hours key drop makes that easy too.
Prefer to stay? Our clean waiting lounge has free Wi-Fi and free refreshments, so you can get work done or just relax while we take care of things.
What Your Check Engine Light Is Actually Telling You
The check engine light is your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system signaling that something needs attention. It can indicate anything from a loose gas cap to a failing oxygen sensor, worn spark plugs, a catalytic converter, a failing mass airflow sensor, or an EGR valve problem. The range is wide, which is exactly why a proper diagnosis matters.
A steady check engine light means the vehicle’s computer has logged a fault. The car may still be drivable, but getting it inspected soon reduces the risk of a minor issue turning into a more costly repair. A flashing check engine light is different. That typically signals an active engine misfire, which can cause damage to the catalytic converter and should be treated as urgent. Don’t continue driving. Bring the vehicle in to our Hixson shop as soon as possible.
Reading an OBD-II trouble code points to the affected system, but it doesn’t confirm the root cause. A full inspection of the involved components is required to determine what actually needs repair. That’s the difference between a quick code read and the Full Service Diagnostic Testing we use for check engine light service in Hixson and the greater Chattanooga area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe to Keep Driving with the Check Engine Light On?
A steady light generally means the vehicle can be driven to a shop soon. A flashing light indicates a potentially serious issue. If it’s flashing, stop driving and have the vehicle inspected before getting back on the road.
Will You Just Clear the Code, or Find the Actual Problem?
We go beyond reading the code. Our check engine light diagnostics include inspecting the affected components to identify the root cause, then explaining what we found in clear language. A repair recommendation only comes after that inspection is complete.
How Long Does a Check Engine Light Diagnostic Take?
Diagnostic time depends on the complexity of the fault. Your service advisor can communicate timing after the initial inspection so you know what to expect.
What If I Have an Extended Warranty?
We work with all major extended warranty providers. Mention your carrier when you schedule so we can confirm coverage before any work begins.
What Does the Nice difference.® Warranty Cover for Check Engine Light Repairs?
Repairs performed at our Hixson location are covered by the Nice difference.® warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles, honored at any Christian Brothers Automotive location nationwide.
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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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"Exemplary Customer Service care. Very professional, provided same day service for a battery replacement. A business with integrity and honesty. Thank you! Judith Ferris-Stringfield"
- Judith Ferris-Stringfield