What to Expect with a Check Engine Light Diagnostic Service
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 Full Service Diagnostic Testing Actually Involves
A code reader tells you which system triggered the alert. It doesn’t tell you why. Our diagnostic process starts by scanning your vehicle’s onboard computer for stored trouble codes, then moves into a visual and mechanical inspection of the affected systems. We confirm the root cause before recommending any repair.
That distinction matters. A single diagnostic trouble code can have several possible causes, and replacing a part based on the code alone often costs money without fixing the problem. We identify the specific failure so the repair addresses what’s actually wrong.
As part of your visit, we also perform a free Courtesy Inspection covering major systems including lights, brakes, suspension, tires, and battery. Once the diagnostic is complete, you receive a clear explanation of the findings and a written estimate before we touch anything.
Check Engine Light explained
Common Causes of a Check Engine Light
The check engine light connects to your vehicle’s emissions system, engine management, and sensor network. Common triggers include a loose or damaged gas cap, a failing oxygen sensor, a deteriorating catalytic converter, misfiring spark plugs or ignition coils, a failing mass airflow sensor, and a weak battery.
The light’s behavior also matters. A steady check engine light means a problem exists and should be addressed, but it isn’t an immediate emergency. A flashing or blinking check engine light signals an active engine misfire. That condition can damage the catalytic converter quickly, and the vehicle should be brought in promptly rather than driven farther.
Current Offer: 50% Off Check Engine Diagnostics
We’re currently offering 50% off check engine diagnostics at our Roanoke location. This is a limited promotional offer, not standard pricing. Visit our Special Offers page for current terms and restrictions. This offer isn’t valid in combination with other offers.
If you enroll in our CARE+ vehicle warranty program during your visit, you’ll save an additional $50 on your current repair bill at this location.
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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.