Where to Take Car When Check Engine Light Comes On
The check engine light is a warning light that can illuminate for a variety of reasons. It can be a sign of a minor issue, such as a loose gas cap, or it can be a sign of a more serious problem, such as an engine misfire. If the check engine light comes on, it’s important to have your car diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
Where to Take Your Car
There are a few different places you can take your car when the check engine light comes on:
- Auto parts store: Many auto parts stores offer free or low-cost diagnostic scans. This can be a good option if you’re on a budget or if you just want to get a quick reading on what the problem might be.
- Mechanic: A mechanic can diagnose the problem and fix it, if necessary. This is usually the most expensive option, but it’s also the most reliable.
- Dealership: If your car is still under warranty, you can take it to the dealership for a free diagnostic scan. The dealership may also be able to fix the problem under warranty.
What to Expect
When you take your car in for a diagnostic scan, the mechanic will use a scan tool to connect to the car’s computer. The scan tool will retrieve trouble codes from the computer, which will help the mechanic identify the problem.
The mechanic will then explain the problem to you and recommend a course of action. If the problem is minor, the mechanic may be able to fix it on the spot. If the problem is more serious, the mechanic may need to order parts or schedule an appointment for a more extensive repair.
How Much Will It Cost?
The cost of diagnosing and repairing a check engine light problem can vary depending on the severity of the problem. A minor problem, such as a loose gas cap, may only cost a few dollars to fix. A more serious problem, such as an engine misfire, could cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars to repair.
If your car is still under warranty, the cost of diagnosis and repair may be covered. However, if your car is not under warranty, you will be responsible for the cost of the repair.
Conclusion
If the check engine light comes on, it’s important to have your car diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic can identify the problem and recommend a course of action. The cost of diagnosis and repair will vary depending on the severity of the problem.
