Our Vehicle Testing & Approval Process
We keep you informed from the initial appointment through the decision to proceed with repairs. No diagnostic repair work moves forward without your approval.
- Schedule an Appointment: Arrange a time to bring your vehicle in for testing.
- Complete Diagnostics and Inspections: We use manufacturer-level equipment to evaluate the vehicle and document relevant findings.
- Receive the Inspection Report: We send the findings and estimate by text for your review.
- Review and Approve: A service advisor can discuss the findings with you, or you can approve work directly through the Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI).
- Perform or Schedule Repairs: Once you approve the recommended work, we complete it or schedule it for a later time.
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.
ASE-Certified Technicians Using Current Technology
Our technicians hold ASE certifications and receive ongoing training on automotive repair standards and technology. This preparation supports careful interpretation of diagnostic codes, inspection findings, and live sensor data.
Corey and Reagan Sowa own and operate the business serving Northglenn. Their on-site involvement supports the clear, accountable service our customers expect when making decisions about vehicle testing and repairs.
Digital Vehicle Inspection Reports & Diagnostic Offers
Our free Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) includes actual photos taken while your vehicle is being serviced. We send the inspection report by text with pictures or video and an estimate, giving you a documented view of the findings before you decide whether to approve recommended work.
A code scan retrieves stored diagnostic information, while advanced testing investigates the condition that triggered the code or performance concern. Additional testing is sometimes required before we can fully diagnose the vehicle.
Through December 31, 2026, we offer a free Check-Engine Light Code Scan or $25 off Advanced Electrical or Performance Testing.
Colorado Emissions-Related Diagnostics for Thornton Drivers
Thornton registrations can fall within the designated portion of Adams County covered by the Colorado AIR program. Testing requirements depend on the vehicle’s model year, registration address, fuel type, and current program applicability. New gasoline vehicles are exempt for their first seven model years. Gasoline vehicles more than seven model years old are generally tested every two years, while gasoline vehicles from 1981 and earlier are tested annually when the program applies.
For applicable onboard diagnostic testing, catalytic converter, oxygen sensor, and heated oxygen sensor emissions readiness monitors must show Ready status. Model-year 2000 and older vehicles can have up to two unset monitors, while 2001 and newer vehicles can have one. Our diagnostic equipment helps identify stored codes, unset monitors, and emissions-related conditions so you can review the findings before authorizing repairs.
Unlocking the Mystery of the Check Engine Light
When diagnostic findings lead to approved repair work, that work is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. The warranty is honored at Christian Brothers Automotive Northglenn locations nationwide, regardless of which location performed the original work.
Effortless Deciphering of the Check Engine Light
A check engine light tells you that the onboard diagnostic system detected a condition and stored a code. Our testing reviews relevant vehicle data to identify the source of the concern. We explain what we found in understandable terms and discuss repair options before work is approved.
Convenience While Your Vehicle Is Serviced:
You can wait in our lounge with free Wi-Fi and refreshments or use our free shuttle service. We also provide a free Courtesy Inspection covering major systems, including the lights, brakes, suspension, tires, and battery.
Schedule computer diagnostic service with Christian Brothers Automotive. Call us at (720) 513-3760 or reach out online.
Computer Diagnostics Before Buying a Used Vehicle
An independent mechanical inspection provides information that a vehicle history report usually doesn’t include, such as existing mechanical problems. Buyers should consider an inspection even when a used vehicle is advertised as certified or includes a warranty or service contract.
A mechanical inspection also differs from a state safety inspection. A safety inspection generally focuses on conditions that make a vehicle unsafe to drive rather than its overall mechanical condition.
Before purchasing, request a written inspection report that identifies the vehicle by make, model, and vehicle identification number. The report should describe necessary repairs and include available repair estimates so you can consider the vehicle’s condition as part of your decision.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
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Q. "What does a vehicle test do?"
Today’s vehicles are more advanced than ever. They’re essentially computers on wheels, with complex systems controlling everything from performance and safety to comfort and efficiency. When a warning light comes on or something feels off, our testing process takes a deep dive into these systems to identify the real issue, not just a surface-level code. This thorough approach goes far beyond a quick parts-store scan and helps ensure repairs are accurate, effective, and long-lasting.
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Q. "How long does a vehicle test take?"We believe in doing things right, not rushing through them. While some tests can be completed quickly, others take more time, depending on the concern. Our priority is accuracy, so you can feel confident in the results and the next steps. We’ll always keep you informed along the way, giving you peace of mind on the road to the people and places that matter most.
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Q. "When should I get a vehicle test?"
Vehicle testing is essential anytime a warning light comes on, your vehicle feels different, or during routine maintenance visits. Regular testing helps catch small issues before they become bigger problems, keeping your car safe, reliable, and running at its best.
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Q. "Do you offer a shuttle service?"Yes! we understand you have a full schedule. Whether you need to get to work, school, or need to attend to other responsibilities, we can take you where you need to go. Click here to learn more.
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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 a 3-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.
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.