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.
Flashing vs. Solid Check Engine Light: Know the Difference
Not all check engine light warnings carry the same urgency. Understanding what each state means helps you respond correctly.
Flashing Check Engine Light
A flashing check engine light signals a serious problem, such as an active engine misfire, that can cause dangerous and expensive damage very quickly. Pull over safely and don’t continue driving. Contact us immediately.
Solid Check Engine Light
A steadily lit check engine light means your vehicle is producing irregular emissions due to a fault somewhere in the engine or related systems. It should be serviced as soon as possible. A solid light can also mean a sensor is sending a fault signal to the vehicle’s computer, or that the sensor itself has failed. Either way, the vehicle needs a proper diagnostic, not just a code scan.
Common Reasons Your Check Engine Light Is On
The range of possible triggers is wide. On the minor end, a loose or missing gas cap is enough to set the light off. More serious causes include a failed oxygen (O2) sensor, a failing catalytic converter, worn ignition coils or spark plugs, or a faulty thermostat. The check engine light can also point to problems in the transmission, fuel system, or emissions control system.
A basic ODB scanner provides a trouble code, but that code identifies a symptom, not the underlying cause. Full diagnostic testing is required to pinpoint what’s actually wrong. Driving with an undiagnosed check engine light can allow small problems to compound into larger, more expensive repairs.
If you already have an extended warranty, we work with all major providers to make needed repairs. When you schedule your appointment, let us know your carrier and we can confirm coverage before work begins.
Check Engine Light Questions from Magnolia Drivers
Here are answers to the questions we hear most often.
What’s the Difference Between a Steady & a Flashing Check Engine Light?
A steady light means a sensor is sending a fault signal or may have failed, and you should get the vehicle serviced soon. A flashing light indicates a serious issue, such as an engine misfire, and you should stop driving immediately.
Why Is My Check Engine Light On If Nothing Seems Wrong?
It could be something minor, like a loose gas cap or a bad O2 sensor. A mechanic should still inspect it. Even faults that don’t affect how the car feels can worsen into larger problems over time.
What Should I Do When My Check Engine Light Turns On?
Head to a shop as soon as possible. The light signals an abnormality in the engine or emissions system, and prompt diagnosis can give you the most options for a straightforward repair.
Is It Safe to Drive with the Check Engine Light On?
It depends on whether other symptoms are present. If you notice rough running, unusual sounds, or a loss of power, pull over safely. If nothing else seems off, driving to the shop is generally acceptable, but don’t delay service.
What Warranty Covers Check Engine Light Repairs?
All work is backed by our Nice difference.® warranty: 3-year/36,000-mile coverage, whichever occurs last, honored at any Christian Brothers Automotive location nationwide.
Can I Use My Extended Warranty for Check Engine Light Repairs?
Yes. We work with all major extended warranty providers. Let us know your carrier when scheduling and we can confirm your coverage before any work begins.
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.