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.
What to Expect During Your Visit
We design the check engine light diagnostic experience to be as low-stress as possible. Here’s what’s included when you bring your vehicle to Christian Brothers Automotive North Dallas:
Digital Vehicle Inspection Report
After our technicians complete the diagnostic, we send a DVI report by text with photos and videos of our findings and any recommendations. You can review everything from your phone.
Free Shuttle Service
We’ll drop you off at work, home, or wherever you need to be while your vehicle is in our care.
Free Courtesy Inspection
Every visit includes a complimentary inspection of major systems, including lights, brakes, suspension, tires, and battery, so you leave with a complete picture of your vehicle’s condition.
Flashing vs. Solid Check Engine Light: What Each Means
Not all check engine light warnings carry the same urgency. A solid check engine light means a sensor has detected a problem in one of your vehicle’s systems. The car may seem to drive normally, but fuel economy or performance can be affected, and the issue won’t resolve on its own. Schedule a check engine light diagnostic soon.
A flashing check engine light is a different situation. It typically signals a serious condition such as an engine misfire, which can overheat and damage the catalytic converter if driving continues. Pull over as soon as it’s safe and arrange to have the vehicle brought in rather than driving it to the shop. Either state warrants professional diagnosis; a flashing light warrants stopping sooner.
Common Reasons the Check Engine Light Comes On
Your vehicle’s OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes narrow down which system triggered the warning, but a code alone doesn’t identify the specific failed component. That’s why professional diagnosis matters. Some of the most frequent triggers include:
- Loose or damaged gas cap: One of the simplest causes, but it still sets a code and should be confirmed before assuming it’s resolved
- Oxygen sensor failure: Affects fuel mixture calculations and can reduce fuel economy over time
- Worn spark plugs: Can cause engine misfires and rough running
- EVAP system leak: An emissions control system fault that can be triggered by something as minor as a cracked hose
- Malfunctioning mass airflow sensor: Disrupts the air-fuel ratio and can affect performance
- Catalytic converter issues: Often a downstream symptom of another problem left unaddressed
Replacing a part based solely on a code, without a full diagnosis, can lead to unnecessary expense if a different underlying component is actually at fault. Our technicians work through the full picture before recommending any repair.
Schedule Your Check Engine Light Diagnostic in Dallas
If your check engine light is on, Dallas and Richardson drivers can count on Christian Brothers Automotive North Dallas for an honest, thorough diagnostic backed by a warranty that travels with you. Call us at (469) 267-6149 or schedule online to book your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Difference Between a Flashing & a Steady Check Engine Light?
A steady check engine light means a sensor has flagged a problem that needs professional attention, even if the car seems to drive fine. A flashing check engine light points to a more serious issue, such as an engine misfire, and you should stop driving as soon as it’s safely possible to help avoid further damage.
Can I Drive With the Check Engine Light On?
If the light is steady and the vehicle is driving normally, you can typically drive carefully to the shop without delay. If the light is flashing or other symptoms accompany it, pulling over and avoiding further driving until the vehicle has been inspected is the safer choice.
My Check Engine Light Turned Off on Its Own. Do I Still Need a Diagnostic?
If tightening the gas cap made the light go away, that was likely the trigger. If it came on for any other reason and cleared without a clear cause, a diagnostic is still worthwhile. Some conditions store a code even after the light turns off, and leaving an undiagnosed issue can allow it to worsen over time.
Does Christian Brothers Automotive North Dallas Work With Extended Warranty Providers?
Yes. We work with all major extended warranty providers. Let your service advisor know which carrier you have when you schedule so we can coordinate the process.
What Warranty Covers Repairs Made at Christian Brothers Automotive North Dallas?
Completed repairs are covered by the Nice difference.® warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs last. The warranty is honored at any Christian Brothers Automotive location nationwide, so you’re covered even when you’re away from Dallas.
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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"This is an amazing place full of people with heart. I am an elderly widow and any vehicle repairs scare me. Frequently people in my age group are sadly scammed. That does not happen here. Everyone is so caring. They make sure you understand what they found"
- Nancy M