Basic Diagnosis
When we perform an automotive basic diagnosis, customers can expect a comprehensive and systematic process designed to identify and address any issues affecting their vehicle’s performance. The following outlines the key procedures customers can expect during this diagnostic service:
Initial Consultation and Vehicle History: Upon arrival, the customer will typically speak with a service advisor or technician. During this consultation, the technician will ask detailed questions about the vehicle's symptoms, including any unusual noises, warning lights, performance issues, or specific concerns the customer has noticed. This helps the technician gain a better understanding of the issue and prioritize areas of focus.
Visual and Physical Inspection: After gathering the initial information, the technician will perform a visual and physical inspection of the vehicle. This includes checking under the hood for any obvious signs of wear, leaks, or loose components, such as belts, hoses, or wires. Fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.) will also be checked to ensure they are within the proper range.
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) Scan: For most modern vehicles, the technician will connect a diagnostic scanner to the vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) port. This tool allows the technician to retrieve any stored trouble codes from the vehicle’s computer system, which can point to specific issues related to the engine, transmission, emissions, or other critical systems. The OBD-II scan helps to pinpoint areas that need further testing or attention.
Component and System Testing: Following the initial scan, the technician will proceed to test various vehicle components to identify any malfunctioning parts. This may include testing the battery, alternator, starter motor, sensors, fuel system, and ignition system, among others. If any components are found to be underperforming or faulty, they will be noted for further action.
Additional Diagnosis
Functional Tests: If necessary, additional tests may be conducted to assess the functionality of specific vehicle systems. For example, the technician might test fuel pressure, engine compression, or check for air or vacuum leaks. These tests provide further insight into the root cause of the vehicle’s issues and help the technician determine the most effective solution.
Diagnosis and Repair Recommendations: Once the diagnostic procedure is complete, the technician will analyze all the gathered data and formulate a clear diagnosis. The customer will then be informed of the findings, including the specific issues identified and any recommended repairs or replacements needed to restore the vehicle’s performance. A detailed explanation will be provided, including the estimated costs of parts and labor.
Repair Authorization: After the diagnosis, the customer will be given an opportunity to approve or decline the proposed repairs. The technician will ensure the customer fully understands the necessary steps before any work is initiated. Once approval is given, the repairs will be scheduled and carried out by the service team.
Post-Diagnosis Follow-up: After the repairs are completed, the customer will be notified, and a final inspection will be performed to ensure the vehicle is functioning properly. The technician may also provide post-repair advice or preventative maintenance tips to help the customer avoid future issues.
Electrical Diagnosis
When we perform an automotive electrical diagnosis, customers can expect a comprehensive and targeted tests on specific electrical components that could be causing electrical issues. This may include testing fuses, connector pins, relays, electrical circuits, control modules, and other critical components such as the starter motor, ignition system, or power windows, etc. Specialized testing equipment, such as multimeters or circuit testers, may be used to measure voltage, current, and resistance in various components to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting: If the visual inspection and initial tests do not fully explain the issue, the technician will engage in more detailed troubleshooting. This may involve testing electrical connections, using diagnostic tools to measure the integrity of wiring harnesses, or performing continuity tests to identify short circuits, open circuits, or ground faults. These in-depth tests help pinpoint the specific area of the electrical system that is malfunctioning.
Diagnosis and Repair Recommendations: After completing the diagnostic tests, the technician will analyze the results and provide a clear diagnosis of the electrical issue. The customer will be informed of the specific problem, such as a faulty alternator, malfunctioning sensor, damaged wiring, or a defective electrical component. The technician will also recommend any necessary repairs or replacements to restore the electrical system to full functionality, along with an estimate of the parts and labor required.