Keeping your Chevrolet in excellent condition means being proactive about preventing problems and taking care of issues as soon as they arise. Engine diagnostics can let you know what’s going on with your car at any given time and what steps need to be taken next to fix it. Here’s what a professional diagnostic test includes and how a qualified Chevy dealer can help you keep your car running smoothly rain or shine.
Why and When to Have Engine Diagnostics
Diagnostics are a critical part of engine upkeep, especially for modern vehicles that rely heavily on computerized components. Not only does running a diagnostic test help you catch problems before they can do damage to your car, it’s also the only way to identify certain issues like faulty sensors or early catalytic converter problems. Ideally, you should have your engine checked quarterly, or every three months.
What Do Diagnostics Check For?
A thorough diagnostic assessment should check all of your vehicle’s major systems, including the transmission, engine, brake system, oil tank, and fuel system. This can identify problems like:
- Misfiring cylinders
- Engine running too rich
- Engine running too lean
- Failed oxygen sensor
- Emissions leaks
- Thermostat problems
What to Expect During Your Diagnostic Test
When you bring your vehicle to a dealership for diagnostic testing, your dealership will start by checking your dashboard for tripped sensors, like the “check engine” light or the oil pressure warning light. Then, they will connect a special device to a port on your car’s engine. This will read your vehicle’s computer and alert your dealer to problems that need to be fixed and which parts the repairs will require. This may take several minutes to complete.
Depending on the errors found, you may need to have repairs done the same day, or you may be able to come back at a later date if they aren’t urgent. If you’re testing your car proactively, you can schedule the work you need to have done when it’s most convenient for you, instead of being sidelined by unexpected repairs.
Should You Use a Regular Mechanic or Chevy Dealer for Your Diagnostics?
Most mechanics near you can perform a diagnostic test on your vehicle, but you can also visit your dealership for this same service. There are plenty of benefits of going to your dealer, including faster service, more knowledgeable assessments, and high-quality replacement parts that are designed to fit your car.
Contact Bommarito Chevrolet South County in St. Louis, MO today to learn more about the importance of vehicle diagnostics for your Chevy or to schedule an appointment to bring your car in for an assessment. We’re right next door to Golden Corral, across the street from the All American Sports Mall, so stop by while you’re out and about if you’ve been putting off your vehicle service!
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