How Often Should I Get Car Diagnostic Testing?

When your car is running smoothly, it’s tempting to put off routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations and diagnostic testing. However, performing these seemingly mundane maintenance tasks can vastly improve the life of your vehicle and decrease the chance of a minor problem going undetected for too long and causing more damage than it could have if caught earlier. But how do you know when it’s time to get automotive diagnostics in Lubbock, TX? Here are some indicators to watch out for:

• The check engine light comes on: If the check engine light illuminates on your dashboard, that’s your car’s way of telling you that something’s not right. Technicians can use code-reading tools to investigate the problem that triggered the light. However, the tool can only tell technicians so much, and they often have to use their own intuition and experience to find the details of what is causing a problem. That’s why it’s important to have a professional and knowledgeable technician look at the car when a light comes on for any unknown reason.
• You hear something “off”: Your own intuition is another good indicator that there’s a problem. Have you ever gotten into your car to start driving it and something just seemed different? Whether it’s a sound you hadn’t noticed before or there’s something strange about the way the car is driving or behaving, if you feel like something’s off, it’s likely you’re picking up on a real problem. However, you’ll have to bring your car to an auto shop in Lubbock, TX to find out what it is.
• You’re buying a used car: When you’re buying a used car, it’s often difficult to tell what you’re really getting. Depending on the seller or dealer you’re buying it from, they may or may not have already done diagnostic tests, but even if they have, most sellers will agree to a test before you buy. If they don’t, that should be considered a red flag that you should look elsewhere.
• An annual checkup: If it’s been a full year since your last diagnostic test, it’s probably time to get another one. Just because the check engine light hasn’t registered an issue doesn’t mean there’s not something brewing. In fact, diagnostic tests can reveal much more than issues with the engine, including the transmission, brakes, exhaust system and other potential performance issues and components. Identifying problems early is key to preventing breakdowns or other major repairs.

Get affordable automotive diagnostics in Lubbock, TX

If it’s time for your car to undergo an annual diagnostic test or you’re noticing something amiss about your vehicle, reach out to M & M Tire & Service Center. Our mechanics will use a combination of computer diagnostic tools and their own expertise to identify the root of the problem and determine how best to prevent future damage and keep you on the road and safe. Find out everything you need to know about our services by giving us a call or stopping by our auto shop in Lubbock, TX today!

Categorised in: Auto Shop, Diagnostic Codes

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