MOST COMMON PROBLEMS
There are multiple reasons why that check engine light might be on. The most common culprit is a simple one: a loose gas cap. Not tightening the gas cap will send a signal to your car that something is wrong. If tightening your gas cap doesn’t make the light go off, it’s time to look at other issues.
Worn out spark plugs are another cause for the check engine light. When your plugs fail to send the proper electric signals to your car, the computer diagnostics will flag it. If the oxygen or airflow sensor is damaged or old, that will also cause the light to come on. Replacing it will fix the issue. A more severe issue that can cause the check engine light to come on is a bad catalytic converter. This is a repair you can’t afford to put off, as it can cause additional problems if ignored. Regular repairs and maintenance on your vehicle can prevent many of these problems.
THE CAR COMPUTER EXPERTS
The topic of car computers can often leave drivers confused, but it’s not so complex anymore. In the past, car computers were much more complicated. Before 1996, each carmaker had its own computer codes, and repair shops had to carry multiple computers. Now, car computer trouble codes are standardized for each make and model. The OBD-II comes equipped with all the standard codes. At Auto Clinic of Maryland, we have the computers ready to diagnose your car trouble. Our ASE-certified technicians are experts in reading the codes and correctly repairing your car.
We do understand the panic of seeing the check engine light come on–your mind will often instantly flash to the worst-case scenario. However, that may not be the case. It could be a problem with a simple solution. Come into our shop located at 6013 Baltimore National Pike Catonsville, MD 21228. We welcome walk-ins during our business hours of 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. Our technicians understand that the check engine light can come on at any time.
FAQ’s
What is a diagnostic?
A diagnostic is a comprehensive set of steps used to determine issues with your vehicle and needed repairs. Sometimes one repair must be done in order to identify other issues and their needed repairs.
I went to a parts store and got my codes read- why do I still have to pay for a diagnostic?
Trouble codes are only the first step in diagnosing an issue with your vehicle. They tell us where to start looking for an issue with your car, but not the extent of the issue of how to fix it. A trouble code might tell us there’s an emissions leak, but our experts then have to identify exactly where a leak (sometimes as small as a pinhole) is from the engine to the gas tank.
Why is your diagnostic rate higher than other shops?
Many auto repair shops will start with a lower diagnostic price but add charges as they find more issues with your car. Over our 50 plus years in the auto repair business, we’ve found people value their time and trust us to be fair. We created a diagnostic process that will find issues with the majority of cars—our fee covers the diagnostics needed by 97% of cars we see. By doing that we avoid having to call you multiple times and avoid adding charges to your bill. Plus if we find the issue quicker than planned, we’ll lower your diagnostic fee!
Are there different diagnostic rates?
Yes, in addition to a full diagnostic examination of your vehicle, we also perform a free visual inspection every time you come in to make sure your vehicle is safe to drive. Many times, noises, leaks, and other items are tested and checked out then, and don’t get charged at the full diagnostic rate.
