When we run a diagnostic test on your automobile, it downloads error codes that were reported to your vehicle’s main computer chip, the engine control module. These codes are vital in diagnosing what is wrong with your automobile. These codes point to specific problems that tell us exactly what we need to do to repair your vehicle. Let’s talk more about the diagnostic test below.
Engine Control Module
As we mentioned above, the engine control module is the main computer chip in your SUV, car, or truck. Some people also call this chip the engine control unit. The module receives information from the sensors in your vehicle’s system to let it know whether everything is running as it should be or there is a problem. The module also helps your vehicle operate. For example, it maintains the balance of air and fuel in the combustion chamber for optimal engine efficiency.
System Sensors
Your vehicle also has a ton of sensors throughout it that report to the engine control module while the automobile is running. These sensors are designed to detect problems and identify them using the error codes we talked about in the introduction to this blog post. This information is vital to us, your mechanics, so we know precisely the steps we need to take to repair your automobile.
Dashboard Warning System
We’re getting ahead of ourselves, however. If, for example, something starts to go wrong with your brake system, the system sensor will send an error code to the engine control module. If the module is unable to repair the problem, it will turn on the ABS or Brake light on the dashboard to alert you of trouble. Any problems that do not have lights of their own are covered by the check engine light.
Diagnostic Test
Let’s assume that you bring your vehicle to our shop because the check engine light turned on. We will run a diagnostic test so we can retrieve the error codes that were sent to the main computer chip by the system sensors. For example, if we assume that your oxygen sensor sent an error code that is malfunctioning, we will know that this code means we need to replace the oxygen sensor.
This is why the diagnostic test is so important when it comes to repairing your automobile. The error codes that are provided when we run the test allow us to save time and money diagnosing your vehicle’s problem and repairing it. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
