Every year, you schedule cleanings with your dentist, check-ups with your general physician.

Why? To ensure you stay in good health.

During your routine visit, a doctor can assess what’s going on inside by taking a few standardized tests. They poke and prod in the right places, looking for clues that will tell them something is wrong.

Your goal is to receive an a-okay, knowing you’ll be fine in the coming months. But if they find something small – just an inkling of a potential problem – they can explore further, knowing they’ve caught it early. And catching it early can be the difference between life and death.

A car diagnostic test works in a similar manner. It warns you of potential problems somewhere within your car, problems you might not see, or even detect. But they are there, waiting. They can increase quickly, requiring expensive repairs. Or worse, strand you at the least inconvenient time.

What is a car diagnostic test?

One of the greatest advancements in the auto industry was the addition of technology. As cars became more computerized, it allowed mechanics to connect with each system more effectively. Instead of guessing as to what causes a problem, mechanics can now pinpoint exactly where the problem lies, making it easier than ever to fix the problem and get you back on the road again in no time.

A car diagnostic test can either be performed at the dealer or at a reputable service station. Using specialized software, a trained auto mechanic can use the results from the car diagnostic test to pinpoint exactly where the problem lies. Thanks to built-it processors, microchips, and sensors, this computerized program will show where the problem lies. It makes it easier than ever to discover even the smallest problem within the major systems such as the engine, transmission, ignition cells, throttle, and more.

Does a car diagnostic test look at every part of the vehicle? 

There is a misconception about just how accurate a diagnostic test can be.

When you receive the results from a blood test at your doctor’s office, it can tell the doctor something is wrong. But it’s up to the doctor to interpret the results, conduct further testing, and eventually get to the root of the problem.

Diagnostic testing works in a similar manner.

Through testing, problems can be revealed with a car’s engine, transmission, exhaust system, brakes, performance issues, problems with air flow, coolant, throttle issues, and more. If you have your “check engine” light come on the dashboard, for instance, it can be a warning of a small problem, such as a faulty gas cap, or it could mean something more serious, such as an engine misfiring.

The diagnostic test may provide certain clues that lead a mechanic to dig in a little further. But it’s up to his skill and knowledge levels to determine exactly what’s wrong with the car. The problem will only be fixed appropriately if the mechanic makes the right diagnosis. And that’s where it benefits you to choose your mechanic wisely.

Why should you schedule a car diagnostic test periodically?

If you’ve recently had your annual physical, you know the benefits of scheduling it once a year. In most cases, you’ll be in and out with no worries. You’ll receive a “clean bill of health,” and you’ll be on your way.

There’s a good feeling about that. You can put your fears aside if you’ve been feeling a little under the weather. You can talk with your doctor about any challenges you might have been facing throughout the year. And leave with more confidence, getting back to life.

Before car diagnostic tests, a car’s health was often left to chance. You drove the car hard until a problem presented itself. And by the time you noticed the problem, it usually turned into a major repair. It may have even left you stranded by the side of the road. That puts you at risk. It also signaled there must be a better way.

The diagnostic test helps keep you on the road trouble-free. It helps you feel more confident no matter if you’re driving on dark roads late at night, or traveling cross-country on the family road trip.

In addition to diagnosing potential problems within the systems of your car, it can also check the computer system for manufacturers’ notifications and other detailed messages about your car. It can reveal the history, and signal information about when is the best time to replace or repair.

Should I bring in my car for a diagnostic test today?

Creating a snapshot of your car’s health sounds beneficial, doesn’t it? Maybe you’re wondering when you should schedule a diagnostic test for your vehicle. You don’t have to wait for a light to pop up on your dashboard to signal it’s time for a test. This is where it pays to pay attention to how your vehicle sounds and feels.

If you notice an unusual sound, bring it in. If it just doesn’t drive the way it used to, a diagnostic test may reveal the reason.

Of course, it’s also good to schedule a “check up” at least once per year.

Are you heading out of town on the epic family road trip? A diagnostic test can help you do so with peace of mind.

Or maybe you choose to have a diagnostic test performed right before we head into the winter months. It’s a great way to ensure your vehicle is performing at peak performance, before the temperatures fall below freezing.

An annual test will help reveal small problems that aren’t yet triggered by a light on your dashboard.

It can also be a useful tool if you’re in the market for a good used car. Before you sign on the dotted line and commit your hard-earned cash, schedule a diagnostic test and it will ensure you’ve found a great car, and not a lemon-in-waiting.

Is it time to schedule your car diagnostic test? 

Keeping your vehicle in good working condition takes more than new tires and an occasional oil change. To stay on top of potential problems, a diagnostic test can alert you to trouble long before it appears, giving you trouble on your daily drive. Give us a call or stop by today, and we’ll let you know exactly how well your vehicle is performing.