Modern vehicles are fitted with modern technology. This means that issues can be identified by the on-board computer, making it easier to diagnose problems and get them fixed. However, to read the notifications on your car’s computer, you’ll need to book in for car diagnostics with a trusted garage.
Car engine diagnostics can bring a lot of issues to light. Technology has developed to make car problems much easier to identify. It isn’t always obvious to your average driver what’s gone wrong, but an experienced mechanic will know exactly what to look for.
Cars are fitted with an Engine Control Unit, known as an ECU. This system is an on-board computer which has sensors. These sensors will report back to the ECU if there’s something wrong with your car. The computer will then illuminate the appropriate warning light on the dashboard.
Engine Warning Lights
If a warning light is flashing on your dashboard, it doesn’t take a genius to work out that there’s something wrong with your car. However, not all of these lights are very specific. The engine warning light could indicate a number of issues, so to get to the root of the problem you’ll need engine diagnostics.
Mechanics have special tools that plug into cars and read the faults. These tools are used to perform an engine diagnostics check. The tool transfers information from the car’s sensors into a code. The code will indicate which component is faulty, so it can be repaired or replaced.
What Does A Diagnostic Scan Show?
Modern cars log issues in the ECU system. This a complex computer system fitted with over fifty control units that are connected by wires and sensors. The computer stores data when the sensors are triggered. Diagnostics can read this data, allowing you to schedule repairs and maintenance as necessary.
The diagnostics tool will read any issues that have been highlighted by the ECU. It can detect whether the issue is current or historic. A historic issue is something that’s come up since the last engine diagnostics test but since been remedied. It will be wiped from the ECU after the test is completed.
A Car Health Check
All drivers should be familiar with the dashboard lights. These can flag up a selection of problems, usually ones that require your urgent attention. The great thing about diagnostics is that you’ll learn about any deeper issues that won’t be shown on your dashboard. Although the faults can be minor things, the preventative action that you take can save you a lot of money in the long term.
Understanding Car Diagnostics
The test sounds straightforward. However, reading the results takes specialist knowledge. Cars don’t usually report issues in plain English. The car diagnostics usually return a series of error codes which detail what’s gone wrong. It’s the mechanic’s job to read the codes and translate them, so you know exactly what’s wrong.
When Should I Get An Engine Diagnostics Test?
When any of the warning lights begin to flash on your dashboard, it’s best to book in for engine diagnostics. Warning lights aren’t specific enough to identify the hundreds of issues they might point to.
If the light is red, it indicates an urgent issue. Orange lights are less urgent, but still need to be seen to before the issue deteriorates. You don’t need to worry about green or blue lights, as these are usually general messages. For example, a blue light may indicate that the engine isn’t yet up to temperature at the start of a drive on a cold day.
What Can’t Be Identified By Car Diagnostics?
The diagnostics system reads problems that are identified by the car’s on-board computer system. This means that issues like cracked windscreens won’t come up.
Why Should You Get Car Diagnostics?
Diagnostics are a great way to identify issues with your vehicle without taking a lot of time. Rather than pay for your mechanic to spend hours inspecting your car’s components, they can simply plug in their diagnostics equipment and deal with any problems swiftly.
For Car Diagnostics, Call SCC Autos
If a red or orange warning light has appeared on your dashboard, it would be a good idea to book in for diagnostics. Swindon Cambelt Centre have the latest diagnostics equipment to pinpoint the issue accurately. We can then repair your car before it’s too late.
Because this system is able to accurately identify issues, you’ll save time and money on labour costs. Fixing engine issues early means that your car will last longer and stay in good health. Leaving you with peace of mind on the road.