Decoding Car Diagnosis: What the Service Includes and Its Cost

What Is Car Diagnosis and How Does It Work?

Vehicle diagnosis is a comprehensive inspection service that helps a car owner identify any potential issue with their vehicle. It’s the go-to car repair service when you’re unsure whether a faulty sensor or vacuum leak is affecting your vehicle’s performance.

Since most modern vehicles have complex electrical systems, you’ll need advanced diagnostic equipment and technical experience to perform this task. So, it’s best to call a mechanic for an accurate diagnosis. 

Here are the diagnostic steps they’ll follow: 

1. Inquire about your vehicle’s performance to understand the symptoms and identify potential issues. 
2. Connect the OBD-II scanner and retrieve any diagnostic trouble code stored in your car’s computer system. 
3. Check if the manufacturer has issued a recall or technical service bulletin (TSB). A TSB recommends specific repair procedures for a common issue in certain vehicle models. 
4. Use the code reader, multimeter, or other car diagnostic tool to evaluate the transmission, brake, exhaust, ignition, throttle, and fuel injection systems. 
5. Extract the engine diagnostic report and look for any irregularities or issues causing your car problem. 
6. Refer to the service manual for additional tests.

Based on the inspection result, they’ll perform the required auto repair services.  

When Is the Right Time to Get a Car Diagnostic Testing?

To ensure your vehicle runs smoothly at all times, here are some situations when you should get a car diagnostic testing without fail:

• As part of routine maintenance: Schedule auto services every three months to identify car problems quickly, such as worn brake pads or coolant leaks.

• After an accident: Every car owner must visit a dealership or auto repair shop to identify car issues after an accident. That’s because even a minor collision can damage multiple car engine components without your knowledge.  

• Before purchasing a used car: Inspect a pre-used vehicle thoroughly to avoid unexpected radiator or transmission troubles that will require expensive repairs.

• Every seasonal change: Extreme hot and cold climates can adversely affect your HVAC and charging systems. Schedule an engine diagnostic service in advance to avoid costly repairs in the future. 

6 Urgent Signs You Need a Car Diagnostics Test

Here are some indicators that signal your vehicle needs automotive diagnostics:   

1. Illuminated oil, ABS, or check engine light on your dashboard 
2. Unusual squealing, grinding, or knocking sounds from the engine or under the car
3. Difficulty in accelerating or steering the vehicle
4. Hard starting and stalling
5. Reduced fuel efficiency
6. Overdue vehicle maintenance and diagnostic check 

How Much Does a Vehicle Diagnostic Test Cost?

An auto repair shop will charge you around $50 to $170 for a complete diagnosis. The charge will depend on your vehicle’s make and model, location, and labor charges. 

If the mechanic finds your car needs any repair services, they’ll give you an estimate of the total cost.

4 FAQs on Car Diagnostics

Check out these common queries on general car diagnosis to get a deeper understanding of the service:

1. How Long Does a Car Diagnostic Test Take?

A mechanic may take one to four hours to complete the automotive diagnostics.

However, service time differs between older and newer vehicles. In older models, the mechanic has to manually identify the malfunctioning component to resolve a car problem. Modern vehicles have advanced onboard diagnostic systems that warn you about failing auto parts, making the process faster. 

Ultimately, the total time depends on the problem’s complexity and your vehicle’s condition.

2. What Are Some Common Errors in Car Diagnosis?

A few mistakes that can derail the entire automotive diagnostics include:

• Not retrieving all the fault codes stored in the engine control module.
• Not checking the existing condition of oil, coolant, alternator, and car battery.
• Not visually inspecting the belts, hoses, and wires which results in incomplete vehicle diagnostics
• Not verifying whether the auto parts are functional after the car repair
• Not test driving the vehicle to evaluate the engine performance and assess sounds

To avoid these mistakes, you shouldn’t attempt a DIY inspection. Instead, call an experienced mechanic for accurate troubleshooting. 

3. What Are the Different Types of Car Diagnostic Tests? 

Common types of vehicle diagnostic tests you’ll find are: 

• Basic engine scan: The mechanic uses an OBD-II scanner to extract each diagnostic trouble code stored in your car’s computer. The scan can also help with minor tasks like clearing the engine codes and resetting the check engine light.   

• Advanced vehicle diagnostics: This test uses an advanced car diagnostic tool to gather real-time data from components like the oxygen sensor and the vehicle’s computer. The data helps evaluate the car’s exhaust emissions, fuel efficiency, and other performance parameters, allowing your mechanic to determine the next course of action.  

4. Is a Car Diagnosis Worth Your Money?

Absolutely! Timely vehicle maintenance and diagnosis can help you: 

• Save money on costly repairs by identifying car issues early, like exhaust system leaks or faulty sensors.

• Identify problems with the braking and steering systems quickly to prevent serious accidents and keep you safe during daily drives.

• Improve overall functionality as the car diagnostic test helps you resolve troubles that may be affecting fuel efficiency and vehicle performance.

Car Diagnosis Near Me

Vehicle checkup requires access to an advanced diagnostics scanner and inspection experience. 

Expert mechanics from AutoNation Mobile Service fulfill both conditions, so you’re in good hands. 

Our technicians are available throughout the week and can perform several auto services, including an oil change and a brake repair right from your driveway. 

Here are some of the cities we serve:

Arizona

• Phoenix, AZ
• Mesa, AZ

California

• Los Angeles, CA
• Sacramento, CA
• San Diego, CA
• San Jose, CA

Florida

• Jacksonville, FL
• Miami, FL
• Tampa, FL

Georgia

• Atlanta, GA
• Savannah, GA

Illinois

• Chicago, IL
• Aurora, IL

Nevada

• Las Vegas, NV
• Henderson, NV

Texas

• Houston, TX
• San Antonio, TX

Can’t find your city on the list?
Check out the other locations we cover!