Free Check Engine Light Code Scan, Chandler, AZ

Gee, isn’t it such an exciting day when you get that letter in the mail from the AZ MVD stating that it’s time to get your vehicle emissions test once again? (Yes, that was sarcasm) For most vehicles an emissions test is required every 1-2 years depending on the age and weight of the vehicle.

If the check engine light is illuminated on your dashboard then you will not pass the emissions test. That should be resolved before even taking the vehicle to the testing center. (Also, the light does not have to be on to fail a test).

Visit the Exhaust & Emissions Services page which has more details on the emissions test.

Which Light Is The Check Engine Light?

The Check Engine Light is often the shape of an engine. Sometimes it has a lightning bolt through the middle of it or it may be a light with the words “Service Engine Soon” or “Check Engine”. The light may be yellow, orange or red depending on the make and model of the vehicle. When the Check Engine Light is illuminated then other dashboard lights might also be illuminated. Learn more about Dashboard Warning Lights.

What Is Included With The Free Check Engine Light Code Scan?

The Free Check Engine Light Code Scan involves connecting a diagnostic device to the vehicle’s computer. Any vehicle made since 1996 has OBD-II compliance (on-board diagnostics). This means the vehicle is capable of self-testing emissions components. The device will display a DTC (or diagnostic trouble code), which gives us the starting point of where to visually or manually inspect the vehicle.

Often, people think that connecting the diagnostic scanner is the only action that the diagnostic entails. It is simply the beginning of a diagnostic test, especially since a diagnostic trouble code can have multiple different causes.

For example, the diagnostic trouble code po171 means “bank 1 lean”. This can be caused by low fuel pressure, the mass air flow sensor (AFS), or a vacuum leak. If the customer were only given the po171 code (which might be the extent of what other repair shops or auto parts stores give them), then the diagnostic is actually incomplete. The DTCs only indicate the potential causes of a problem, and it’s the technician’s job to find the actual cause.

After the diagnostic code is produced we will have a straightforward, no-pressure discussion with you on how we’d suggest proceeding with the diagnostic. You’ll be advised ahead of time how much a diagnostic might cost and we will not perform any repairs without your prior approval. Since our labor rates are competitively lower than other shops, you’ll find that the diagnostic is very affordable compared to other places you might go. In many cases, we can roll the cost of the diagnostic into repairs if you decide to get repairs with us after the diagnostic is complete. In most, but not all cases, the diagnostic can generally be completed within an hour. But there are plenty that can take longer, especially if there is any disassembly involved.

Once we proceed with the diagnostic it may include a pinpoint test, which can be complicated. The service manual for the make and model of the vehicle is often consulted for this test, even when the technician performing the repairs is highly trained and experienced.

The Check Engine Light Diagnostic is one of a few different inspections that are offered. See also the following pages:

• Free Code Scan – OBD2 Code Scan
• Dashboard Warning Light Guide
• Free Brake Check
• Free AC Check
• Free Safety Check
• Used Car Evaluation

Crawford’s Affordable 5-Star Quality Service

At Crawford’s Auto Repair, we don’t pay our staff by commissions and we never try to sell unnecessary repairs. Our highly-trained technicians will treat your vehicle as if it belonged to our own mother.

You’re welcome to speak to the owner or the technician working on your vehicle at any time. If you ever feel that you haven’t received 5-star service, please let us know and we’ll do what we can to make it right.

Customer review:

“My car failed the Emissions Test. It is an older vehicle, so something could be wrong. . . Decided to inquire at Crawford’s. I’m glad I did. They confirmed that my car is functioning properly – apparently one of the lanes had bad equipment. Went back to the Emissions Test the same day – went through a different lane, and I passed! Thank you Crawford’s for your excellent customer service and honesty.”

–Michael M.

If you need a free code scan for an illuminated check engine light on your dashboard then schedule an appointment today.

Call 480-201-0740 To Schedule An Appointment.