What is a car diagnostic check?

A car diagnostic check is basically an internal MOT for your vehicle. Similar to us going to the doctor if we feel something’s wrong, a car diagnostic check will give your car’s main components a thorough once over. It uses state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to highlight any potential issue or fault, long before it becomes a costly problem. As all vehicle owners appreciate, identifying issues early on really is the best thing to do.

As most, if not all modern cars are computerised, diagnostic checks are more accessible than ever before. The computerised inner workings of your vehicle can easily be thoroughly checked with diagnostic tests that ensure your vehicle’s optimal performance for longer. Car diagnostic checks scan the components within your vehicle, as well as the integrated systems within it, for potential malfunctions long before they become a real issue. 

Signs your vehicle needs a car diagnostic check    

Now we’re clearer on what a diagnostic check is, we also need to be aware of when your vehicle needs a check. There are certain warning signs and early indicators to look out for.

Signs your vehicle needs a car diagnostic check are:

– Dashboard signs, such as ‘check engine’

– Error codes and fault codes (OBD on board diagnostic codes) being visible

– Warning lights illuminating, such as the service light illuminating

As always, this isn’t an exhaustive list and as a vehicle owner, it’s crucial you are aware of your driving ‘norms’ and recognise anything different as early as possible.

Which parts are tested during a car diagnostic check?

Due to the technological advancements within the motoring world, various aspects and parts of your vehicle can now be tested through a car diagnostic check.

However, they have a specific role to complete and as part of this, they check the following:

• The car’s engine management as a whole, including the engine control unit which completes all engine diagnostic checks
• Exhaust faults, including potential contamination and emissions
• The vehicle’s responsiveness, including acceleration
• Other compartments.

As car diagnostic checks are very specialised, we always recommend taking your vehicle to a trained technician and not attempting to complete the checks yourself.

Benefits of a car diagnostic check

There are many benefits to taking your car in for a regular diagnostic check. The over-arching benefit is maintaining optimised car health and saving you expensive repairs in the future.

Other benefits include:

• Early detection of issues, errors and problems going forward – prevention is better than cure!
• Saving you from avoidable car accidents, saving your health and those you travel with
• Peace of mind, knowing your vehicle is driving with the optimum safety and security
• Thorough checks of the vehicle’s onboard computer system, which includes reviewing any stored information. This data then informs the technician on how to provide the most accurate, thorough repairs for your car.  

JDM specialised help and advice

As we always say, when it comes to motoring, prevention is always advised over finding a cure!

We recommend frequent car diagnostic checks for your vehicle, to ensure your safety and the overall running of your car. One of our promises to our customers is to save you money, wherever possible. Ensuring regular checks would help achieve that aim, as any future issues would be identified and resolved efficiently. 

With any motoring questions or issues, please know you can always get in touch with one of the team, who will assist with all of your diagnostic check needs.