An engine diagnostic is an invaluable tool that enables technicians to diagnose problems with your car quickly and efficiently. As your Toyota dealer in Frederick, MD, we want to tell you more about how this system works and helps to save you time and money.
Driving in Frederick, MD: How an Engine Diagnostic Works
Your Car Computer
For years, vehicles have had a computer inside them that controls all vehicle functions. These computers are connected to a vast array of sensors in the car. These sensors are attached to every vital component and constantly supply information to the computer to enable it to make decisions. The sensors also monitor their attached components for any signs of a problem.
If a sensor detects a problem, for example, your alternator voltage drops unexpectedly, this information will be sent to the computer. The computer responds by logging an error code that identifies the affected area of your car and illuminates one of your dash warning lights. In this example, the check battery light will illuminate.
Diagnostic Test
When a warning light appears, the exact cause of the problem isn’t always apparent. Our technicians perform this test by connecting your car’s computer to our diagnostic system. This system is supplied by Toyota, and it has the most up-to-date information on all the vehicles in the Toyota range. The diagnostic test will identify any error codes generated by your car’s computer.
Once our technicians have the error codes, they can immediately examine the affected area or areas to find the source of the problem. A diagnostic test is relatively fast, which saves time in manually identifying the problem. Time is money, as the adage goes, and the faster a problem is identified, the faster it can be repaired. This allows us to repair and return your car to you quicker, helping you to save money in repair costs.
Problems a Test Can Identify
These are a few of the potential problems the test can identify:
- Low coolant level
- Low oil level
- Transmission problems
- Sensor failures
- Emissions control issues
Problems a Test Can’t Identify
Some issues, like the ones below, can’t be identified directly by a diagnostic test. These issues, however, will show up as warning lights on your dash.
- Your engine has the wrong octane gas
- Your brake pads are worn
- Your wheels need alignment
Get Your Car Engine Serviced Today in Maryland!
As your car dealer in Frederick, MD, we want to save you time and money while providing the high-quality repairs you deserve. A diagnostic test is one of the many ways we can help to ensure your car is always in great condition. If you’d like to know more about a diagnostic or would like a diagnostic test, call our service department today at DARCARS Toyota of Frederick.
Connect with us
