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 Your Check Engine Light Is Telling You
Your vehicle’s onboard computer monitors dozens of systems at once. When a sensor detects a reading outside normal range, it stores an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code and triggers the warning light. That code points to a system, not necessarily a specific failed part.
Solid vs. Flashing: Urgency Matters
A Solid Check Engine Light means a sensor has flagged an issue that warrants prompt attention. Your vehicle may still drive normally, but problems with emissions, fuel efficiency, or engine performance may already be developing without obvious symptoms.
A Flashing Check Engine Light is a different situation. It typically signals an active engine misfire, which can push unburned fuel into the exhaust and damage your catalytic converter within miles. If your light is flashing, stop driving as soon as it’s safe and bring the vehicle in.
Common Causes of a Check Engine Light
Reading the trouble code alone doesn’t confirm what failed. The same code can be set by a faulty component, damaged wiring, a connector issue, or a related sensor. That’s why a full diagnostic evaluation is the only reliable path to the actual root cause. Common triggers include:
- Loose or damaged gas cap
- Failing oxygen sensor
- Failing catalytic converter
- Failing mass air flow sensor
- Worn spark plugs or damaged wires
- EGR valve problems
- Vacuum leaks
Ready for a clear answer? Call Christian Brothers Automotive Waterside at (281) 653-8173 or book your appointment online.
Check Engine Light Questions
Is It Safe to Drive with the Check Engine Light On?
A Solid Check Engine Light without any drivability issues generally allows a careful drive to the shop. A Flashing Check Engine Light, or any rough running, shaking, or loss of power, means you should stop safely and not drive the vehicle further. When in doubt, call us and we can help you assess the situation.
What If the Light Is On but My Car Seems Fine?
Common minor causes include a loose gas cap or a failing oxygen sensor, neither of which may produce noticeable driving symptoms. Professional diagnosis is still the right call. A stored fault code can mask a developing problem that’s easier and less expensive to catch early.
Do You Work with Extended Warranty Providers?
Yes. We work with all major extended warranty providers. When you schedule, let us know your carrier so we can coordinate coverage details before your appointment.
What Makes and Models Do You Service?
We service all makes and models: gas and diesel, foreign and domestic. If it has a check engine light, we can diagnose it.
What Warranty Covers My Repair?
All repair work performed at Christian Brothers Automotive Waterside is covered by our Nice difference.® warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs last. You’re covered until you reach both limits.
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 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.