Check engine light question:
My check engine light is on. My boyfriend believes that if he can read the code he will know exactly what part he needs to replace in order to fix my vehicle. I say it’s not that simple. Who’s right?
Town Hill Auto Sales and Service’s Answer:
Good news – you are! Just look at it logically: there are hundreds of things that can go wrong with your vehicle. Some are simple and some are quite complicated.
Let’s take a step back. Over 80% of engine functions are computer controlled. The computer receives information from dozens of sensors. When a sensor reading is out of range, a trouble code is entered in the computer and the Check Engine Light is illuminated.
Diagnosing a check engine light
It’s a common misconception of drivers that the trouble code will tell you exactly what is wrong. For any given trouble code, there are any number of faults that would trigger the code. For example, a code indicating a misfire on cylinder three could be caused by a bad spark plug, a failed coil, ignition problems, compression issues, etc. Each of those possibilities requires additional diagnosis to confirm or rule out a cause.
A complicated diagnosis may take some time. The temptation is often to bypass a diagnosis charge by taking a trouble code reading with an inexpensive scan tool and start replacing parts. You might get lucky, but chances are you’ll end up spending more time and than if you went to a professional with the right equipment.
Did you know that all of the service professionals at Townhill Auto service in Bedford PA are ASE Master certified mechanics? These dealer trained technicians really know their cars. Certified in all makes and models these professionals can easily diagnose and repair anything; from the smallest leak to a major repair. Back that with being a Napa Certified Service Center you can have peace in mind that every repair uses the highest quality parts with industry-leading warranties.
A final word – a flashing Check Engine Light indicates that a condition exists that could lead to serious, damage, if this is your case you should get to Town Hill Auto Sales and Service in Bedford PA right away. A steadily illuminated Check Engine Light is less urgent so you can get it checked at your convenience. But keep in mind that a minor issue can become more serious if left unresolved.
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