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 vs. Solid: What Your Check Engine Light Is Telling You
Not all check engine lights carry the same urgency. A solid light means your vehicle’s onboard computer has logged a diagnostic trouble code, and something affecting emissions, performance, or engine efficiency needs attention. The vehicle is generally safe to drive to a shop, but it shouldn’t be ignored for long.
A flashing check engine light is a different situation. It typically signals an active engine misfire severe enough to damage the catalytic converter. If your light is flashing or the vehicle is running rough, pull over and have it towed rather than driving it in.
Common triggers for the check engine light include:
- Loose or missing gas cap
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Catalytic converter issues
- Spark plug or ignition coil failure
- Mass airflow sensor faults
- Transmission system errors
Memphis stop-and-go traffic puts steady wear on oxygen sensors and fuel system components, two of the most frequent culprits behind a lit warning light in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe to Drive with the Check Engine Light On?
If the light is solid and the vehicle drives normally, it’s generally safe to drive to a shop. If the light is flashing or the vehicle is running rough, don’t drive it. Have it towed.
Can the Light Come On with Nothing Visibly Wrong?
Yes. A faulty oxygen sensor or a loose gas cap can trigger the check engine light without any noticeable change in how the vehicle drives. A diagnostic scan identifies the stored code so the actual fault can be confirmed.
Will the Light Turn Off After the Repair?
Once the underlying fault is resolved and verified, the light should clear. Our technicians confirm the light is reset before returning your vehicle.
Does the Scan Tell You Exactly Which Part to Replace?
The OBD-II scan identifies which system logged a fault, not necessarily the specific failed component. Full Service Diagnostic Testing goes beyond basic ODB scanner codes to test components within that system and confirm the cause before any parts are ordered.
Is My Check Engine Light Repair Covered Under Warranty?
Yes. Repairs are backed by the Nice difference.® Warranty for 3 years/36,000 miles, honored at any Christian Brothers Automotive location nationwide. If you carry an extended warranty, we work with all major providers. Confirm your coverage when you schedule.
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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 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.