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.
Full Service Diagnostic Testing
An OBD-II scan retrieves diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from your vehicle’s engine control unit, but a code identifies the system affected, not the specific component that failed. Interpreting it accurately requires a trained technician who can analyze related systems, rule out secondary faults, and pinpoint what actually needs to be fixed.
Our check engine light diagnostics go beyond basic scanner codes. We use manufacturer-quality equipment throughout the process and present findings through our Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI), complete with photos of your vehicle’s actual condition. Everything is explained in plain language before any repair is authorized.
Common Reasons a Check Engine Light Comes On
The same trouble code can point to several different components, which is why professional diagnosis is the only reliable way to know which part has actually failed. These are some of the most frequent triggers our technicians see:
- Loose or damaged gas cap: One of the most common and least serious causes. A poor seal lets fuel vapor escape and can illuminate the light immediately.
- Faulty oxygen sensor: Oxygen sensors monitor exhaust gases to help the engine control unit balance the air-fuel mixture. A failing sensor reduces fuel efficiency and increases emissions.
- Catalytic converter failure: Often a downstream result of ignored sensor faults, catalytic converter failure affects emissions and engine performance and represents one of the more costly repairs.
- Mass airflow sensor malfunction: A faulty mass airflow sensor disrupts the engine’s air-fuel calculation, causing rough idling, poor acceleration, and lower fuel economy.
- Spark plug or ignition coil issues: Misfires triggered by worn spark plugs or a failing ignition coil can set off the check engine light and, left unresolved, can damage the catalytic converter over time.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
When you bring your vehicle to Christian Brothers Automotive Loveland, we start with a courtesy inspection and a full service diagnostic scan that goes beyond basic scanner codes. Once we’ve identified the root cause, your technician can explain the urgency level, distinguishing between a safety-critical repair and a condition that can be monitored so you can make an informed decision. Findings come to you through our Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) with actual photos, and no work begins until you approve the detailed estimate. Qualifying repairs are covered by our Nice Difference Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles, whichever occurs last. Complimentary shuttle service is available throughout your visit.
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.