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.
Why Does the Check Engine Light Come On?
Your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system monitors conditions involving the engine, emissions system, ignition system, fuel system, exhaust system, and related components. When it detects a condition outside the expected range, it stores one or more diagnostic trouble codes and turns on the warning light. The light itself doesn’t identify the exact repair needed.
What Full Service Diagnostic Testing Includes
Our technicians begin check engine light diagnostics by gathering information about the warning and any symptoms you’ve noticed. We then use diagnostic equipment to retrieve stored codes and review relevant vehicle data. Depending on the findings, identifying the source can require inspections or additional testing rather than replacing the first component named by a scanner.
We provide this diagnostic service for all makes and models. After confirming the cause, we discuss the affected system, necessary repairs, and upfront pricing before proceeding. Repair timing and cost depend on the vehicle, the confirmed fault, required parts, and the testing involved.
Common Reasons a Check Engine Light Comes On
- Loose or Damaged Gas Cap: A cap that doesn’t seal properly can allow fuel vapors to escape and trigger an evaporative-emissions system code.
- Faulty Oxygen Sensor: An oxygen sensor monitors oxygen levels in the exhaust gases. A malfunction can affect fuel economy and vehicle emissions.
- Worn Spark Plugs: Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine. Worn plugs can contribute to an engine misfire and poor performance.
- Failing Catalytic Converter: The catalytic converter reduces harmful pollutants in exhaust gases. A converter fault can increase emissions and affect vehicle performance.
- Other Monitored Components: Ignition coils, fuel injectors, mass airflow sensors, and evaporative-emissions leaks can also be associated with an illuminated check engine light.
Leaving the underlying condition unaddressed can affect:
- Other Components: Some unresolved faults can place additional strain on related engine or emissions components and result in more extensive repairs.
- Fuel Economy: Ignition, fuel, airflow, and sensor problems can cause the engine to use more fuel than expected.
- Vehicle Emissions: A malfunction involving combustion or the emissions system can increase the pollutants released through the exhaust.
- Drivability: Depending on the cause, you may notice rough running, hesitation, reduced power, stalling, or unusual odors.
Solid vs. Flashing Check Engine Lights
A solid check engine light generally calls for prompt diagnostic service, even if the vehicle appears to drive normally. Continuing to delay service can allow an unresolved condition to affect fuel economy, emissions, performance, or related components.
A flashing check engine light requires more immediate attention because it can indicate an active engine misfire capable of damaging the catalytic converter. If the light flashes or the vehicle begins shaking severely, losing power, stalling, producing unusual smoke, or emitting a strong fuel odor, reduce driving and seek professional guidance. These symptoms can have several causes, so an inspection is still necessary to determine the problem.
Get Check Engine Light Services in Omaha with Full Service Diagnostic Testing and clear explanations of any recommended repairs. Call us today at (402) 275-5956 or schedule an appointment online.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
"My car broke down after Christmas, right when I needed it most for Uber. I was worried about the cost but Christian Brothers Automotive exceeded my expectations. Jacob and Demetris were fantastic! The quick turnaround, free shuttle service, and flexible pa"
- Jesus Perez