It’s easy not to think about your vehicle’s maintenance and repair needs. But if you aren’t careful, problems can crop up. And issues with your vehicle’s performance may lead to expensive repairs that cost you far more.
Thankfully, you can avoid this situation altogether! Let’s cover advanced automotive diagnostics, how this service makes a difference, and where you can schedule your next appointment.
What are advanced automotive diagnostics?
Modern cars aren’t as simple as they used to be. From electric vehicles to ADAS-equipped models, technology now factors into design and functionality. And that means more complex systems to work on when it’s time for maintenance and repairs. Advanced automotive diagnostics play an important role. Shops use these scanning tools to analyze the built-in code for your vehicle. That code will reveal the area (or areas) where your car has an issue. Technicians can then complete a physical inspection for a full picture of your repair needs.Why advanced diagnostics matter
There’s good news about your vehicle! Its electrical systems will communicate with diagnostic scanning tools. That code information helps auto repair shops and their mechanics pinpoint repair opportunities. Without this diagnostics support, an issue could go overlooked during your next multi-point inspection. The technician could miss damage or excess wear related to major systems in your vehicle like the engine and transmission. And if that damage results in costly repairs, you could pay thousands more. Advanced automotive diagnostics are a key piece of the puzzle! Let’s break down what this technology checks for.What advanced diagnostic testing inspects
You stop into a shop for an advanced automotive diagnostics test. The mechanic hooks up their diagnostics scanner to the computer port in your vehicle. That scanner then gathers diagnostics trouble codes (DTC), checking for code errors that indicate repair issues. Your vehicle consists of many complex systems, so there’s a lot to cover with this analysis. Specifically, advanced automotive diagnostics will inspect electrical systems for your:- Engine
- Transmission
- Brakes
- Ignition
- Throttle
- Exhaust
- And more
When to schedule advanced automotive diagnostics
Most auto repair shops will run diagnostics testing for your vehicle whenever you stop in for routine maintenance. It’s good practice to ensure this testing occurs, as you want to correct less obvious problems before they turn into major red flags. In the meantime, don’t ignore warning signs! If you notice one or more of the following activated lights on your car dashboard, schedule your diagnostics appointment:- Check engine light
- Battery light
- Coolant temperature
- Transmission temperature
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- Brake system