A simple, transparent process means you know exactly what to expect from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave.
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.
We Keep Your Day Moving
A check engine light diagnostic doesn’t have to derail your schedule. Our complimentary shuttle service is available for local trips while your vehicle is in our care. If you’d rather wait, our shop offers free Wi-Fi and a comfortable, welcoming environment.
Every visit also includes a Courtesy Inspection covering your vehicle’s major systems: lights, brakes, suspension, tires, and battery. It’s one more way we help you leave with a complete picture of your vehicle’s health.
Steady Light vs. Flashing Light: What Each Means
Not all check engine lights carry the same urgency. A steady light means the OBD-II system has detected a fault, typically something affecting emissions or engine performance. The vehicle can generally be driven carefully to a nearby shop for a same-day diagnostic, but the issue shouldn’t be deferred indefinitely.
A flashing check engine light is a different situation. It signals an active problem, often a cylinder misfire, that can damage the catalytic converter and escalate repair costs quickly. If the light is flashing, bring your vehicle in as soon as possible.
If the light is on and you notice other symptoms alongside it, such as rough running, a loss of power, or unusual smells, pull over rather than continuing to drive. Those combinations signal that something more serious may be underway.
Common Check Engine Light Triggers
The check engine light can be tripped by a wide range of faults. Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Loose or faulty gas cap causing pressure loss in the fuel system
- Failing oxygen sensor affecting the air-fuel mixture and emissions
- Failing catalytic converter reducing emissions control system efficiency
- Cylinder misfire (P0300 series codes) from worn spark plugs or ignition wires
- Failing mass air flow (MAF) sensor disrupting fuel delivery calculations
- EGR valve malfunction affecting exhaust gas recirculation
- Vacuum leaks introducing unmetered air into the engine
One OBD-II trouble code can point to several possible root causes. Reading the code tells you which system flagged a problem; it doesn’t confirm which component is actually at fault. A professional inspection of the affected system is what confirms the true cause before any repair is recommended.
Clearing a code without fixing the underlying issue can cause the light to return. That’s why a full diagnostic, not just a code read, is the right first step.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
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 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.