Check Engine Light Repair is a Job for the Experts

You’re driving down the road when you notice it – Your check engine light is illuminated on your dashboard, causing a growing worry as you wonder what it could mean. What if it’s something serious? How long do you have before something breaks down? And, oh my God, will it be expensive? It’s this last question that tends to make people panic.

So, what do they do? They figure they’ll save some time and money, and they head over to the auto parts store for a free “check engine light test.” We’d like to explain why this is a bad idea, and why you should head over to your licensed mechanic instead.

The check engine light is a warning, letting you know that your car’s computer detects a malfunction in either the engine, fuel system, pollution system or other critical components. There has been a lot of misleading advertising in the past few years, mostly from chain auto parts stores offering free check engine light testing. That leads some people to believe that by simply hooking up a device under your dashboard and reading error messages (provided in codes) an accurate diagnosis can be made. This is simply not true.

When your car is connected to a machine for a check engine light test, trouble codes offer clues that our ASE certified mechanics will interpret. In other words, error messages prompt our mechanics to do more specific testing that will narrow down the cause of the problem.

While chain parts store employees are proficient at what they do, they don’t have the resources, training nor proper test equipment to go beyond this very basic first step or to develop a thorough diagnostic strategy that would be performed by a professionally licensed automotive repair facility.

In short, going to a parts store to have your check engine light tested is like going to a drug store when you’re hurt or sick instead of going to the doctor.

Simply taking a part-store’s error code to your mechanic and telling him what part to replace could end up costing you more expensive repairs in the long run. You may replace the wrong part. You may pay for unneeded work. Yes, there are fees for diagnostic tests run by mechanics. But, with professional, ASE certified mechanics, you get a clear picture of what’s needed and only pay for those necessary repairs. Spend a little bit of time finding an honest repair shop. Read online reviews, testimonials or seek out surveys.

Car owners should appreciate that the OBD (on board diagnostic) system provides feedback both on individual components – such as spark plugs, wires, ignition coils, fuel mixture, oxygen sensor, exhaust system, and mass airflow sensor – and whether their interactions function properly in an expected manner.

An experienced mechanic, especially one who has your car’s service records, will pay attention to other indirect indicators such as your fuel economy over time and whether you have a loose gas cap resulting in an inaccurate emission reading. Having your car checked and understanding its functioning are parts of your overall car care.

Please don’t be fooled by “free” check engine light testing. Remember, it’s free because it’s the easiest part of the diagnostic process. Part stores use this advertising strategy to get people into their stores. Just as you’d go to a doctor to investigate any nagging health symptoms, taking your car to a licensed mechanic will ensure that your car gets the right care, after a thorough diagnosis is made by a qualified professional.

Get Check Engine Light Repair & More Today

Contact our team at Fred’s Auto Repair to learn more about our leading auto repairs and services. We can service your vehicle at either of our convenient locations in Briarcliff Manor or Shrub Oak.