A Straightforward Visit, Start to Finish
We walk you through what we find, explain your options in plain language, and get you back on the road without surprises. Here’s how a check engine light visit works at our shop.
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 a Real Diagnostic Actually Involves
Plugging in a basic OBD-II scanner and reading a code is only the first step. A diagnostic trouble code identifies the system where a fault was detected, not necessarily the specific part that failed. Confirming the actual cause requires inspection of the related components and, in many cases, additional testing.
A thorough check engine light diagnosis at our shop includes a full computer scan to retrieve stored trouble codes, followed by hands-on inspection of the affected system to confirm the exact cause before any repair is recommended. We don’t recommend unnecessary parts or services, and no work begins without your approval.
Common Causes & What Your Check Engine Light Is Telling You
Not every check engine light means the same thing. Common triggers include a loose or damaged gas cap, a failing oxygen sensor, a worn mass airflow sensor, catalytic converter problems, misfiring ignition components, and vacuum leaks. The light’s behavior gives you a first clue about urgency.
Steady vs. Flashing: A steady check engine light indicates a fault that warrants inspection soon but typically allows you to drive to a shop safely. A flashing check engine light is a different situation. It signals an active engine misfire, which can rapidly damage the catalytic converter and calls for prompt attention rather than waiting.
When in doubt, call us. We can help you decide whether to drive in or arrange a tow.
Christian Brothers Automotive Springfield is ranked #1 in Customer Satisfaction Among Aftermarket Full-Service Maintenance and Repair Providers in the J.D. Power 2025 Aftermarket Service Index (ASI) Study, for the sixth consecutive time. Our complimentary shuttle service means your day doesn’t have to stop while we handle the diagnosis. Schedule your check engine light diagnostic or call (417) 240-8801 to set up your appointment.
How Your Vehicle Stores & Clears Trouble Codes
Your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system continuously monitors sensor readings across the engine, transmission, and emissions system. When a reading falls outside the expected range, the system logs a diagnostic trouble code and illuminates the check engine light.
If the light turns off on its own, that doesn’t mean the problem is resolved. The code may still be stored in the engine control module, and the underlying condition can return. Similarly, clearing a trouble code resets the light but does nothing to address the cause. The way to confirm an issue is fixed is to diagnose and repair the root cause, then verify through a proper drive cycle.
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 had an ALTERNATOR problem right before i was supposed to leave town and mark and his team were able to get me in RIGHT away and get me back on the road within just a few hours. Their RESPONSIVENESS and professionalism was amazing and i would highly recom"
- Ryan H