Free Check Engine Light Diagnostic

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 Diagnostic?

We begin the check engine light diagnostic by 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 all 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. At other shops where they advertise a free check engine light diagnostic, that may even be the case. However, it doesn’t stop there at Crawford’s Auto. Sometimes the code that displays on the scanner will indicate further inspection. 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 is the extent of what could be done in other shops), 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.

Another aspect of the diagnostic is 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.

Generally we’re able to complete the diagnostic within an hour. If the diagnostic is more extensive then we will advise you of any charges and get your approval before proceeding.

The Check Engine Diagnostic is one a few different options that is offered as a free inspection. Learn more about all our free inspections.

Crawford’s Affordable 5-Star Quality Service

At Crawford’s Auto Repair we don’t pay our staff by commission 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.

Call 480-201-0740 Or Email Us To Schedule An Appointment.

If you need a free diagnostic for an illuminated check engine light on your dashboard then schedule an appointment today. Call 480-0-201-0740 or email us.