In the old days, identifying a problem in your car could take time. A mechanic had to carefully examine one or more systems and test them to find the source of trouble. Since the 1980s, cars have had computers, and the computer makes diagnosis faster, easier, and cheaper than ever before. As your Toyota dealer, we want to tell you about how an engine diagnostic works and some of the potential faults it can reveal.
Computer and Sensors
Your computer has a vast network of sensors that connect to it. Each of these sensors is connected to an important system, like the alternator or the fuel injectors. These sensors receive instructions from the computer and also scan their attached components for any sign of trouble. If something goes wrong with a component, the sensor sends the information to your computer almost instantly.
When your computer receives the information, it generates an error code pointing to the problem in the affected system and stores this information in its memory. The computer also causes one or more of the warning lights on your dash to illuminate. The warning light could highlight a specific system, for example, the brake pad warning, or identify a more general issue, like an illuminated check engine light.
What a Diagnostic Does
When you bring your car to us with an illuminated warning light, we can quickly identify the reason for the warning light by connecting your computer to our diagnostic machine. This machine will show a list of any error codes the computer has generated. Some error codes are generic and apply to many different makes and models, but most codes are specific to your Toyota.
Our diagnostic system has been supplied by Toyota, and can rapidly identify any possible error code in your vehicle. Using the diagnostic machine saves you time and money, as we can identify and repair a problem far more affordably and save you lost time away from your Toyota.
Benefits of a Diagnostic
A diagnostic can reveal a wide variety of issues. Many drivers don’t know that sensors can detect even a tiny change in their connected components. The changes a diagnostic reveals may be a long way from becoming a serious issue. Once we’ve identified what’s wrong, we can repair the problem or replace the affected components before they can cause any damage.
Most potential faults can be identified by a diagnostic check. These include brake malfunctions, transmission failures, exhaust blockages, and engine trouble. Many drivers also get a diagnostic to have the peace of mind of knowing that their vehicle is in great shape and has not reported problems at all.
If you’d like to know more or to book a diagnostic, contact our service department today at Toyota of Kingsport in Kingsport, TN.
Connect with us
