What Are Vehicle Diagnostics And How Do They Work?

Learn about vehicle diagnostics and discover how this automotive service can help you get your vehicle operating properly and efficiently once again.

Vehicle Diagnostics

If you ever sense an issue with your vehicle, we genuinely advise you to visit a nearby TIRECRAFT location. It’s not just about getting more business; it’s for your own well-being. In the world of vehicles, like many other aspects of life, ignoring problems can lead to bigger issues down the road. Addressing small problems promptly can prevent them from escalating.

Your vehicle’s owner’s manual should have a maintenance schedule. This schedule will suggest when to replace certain components, or least have them looked at. You can follow this schedule or workout a schedule with a TIRECRAFT technician. Either way, vehicle diagnostics are a key routine maintenance service your vehicle needs. Diagnostics are also preventative; they prevent your vehicle from developing more serious and expensive problems.

TIRECRAFT’s Diagnostics Process

At TIRECRAFT, we run diagnostic tests which can reveal issues with your vehicle’s battery, charging system, lights, exhaust, ABS, and more. Our certified technicians will closely examine and assess your vehicle’s various components, use a scan tool to interface with your vehicle’s control modules, and recommend any necessary maintenance or repairs. During a diagnostic examination, our technicians will evaluate and consider components and systems, such as:

The ABS

ABS stands for “anti-lock braking system”. This is a braking feature that is critical to your safety as a Canadian driver. On slick surfaces, such as icy, snowy, or wet roads, your vehicle can easily skid or hydroplane. The ABS helps prevent this and it must be in proper working order to prevent skidding. Therefore, regular inspections are key.

The Air Bags

Your air bags are another critical safety feature. We can run a diagnostic to ensure that your air bags are in proper working order, protecting you and your family.

The Alternator

The alternator is critical to the automotive electrical system. The alternator charges your car battery and powers the electrical system while your engine is running.

The Car Battery

Your battery provides the electrical power your vehicle needs. The battery runs everything from your headlights to your radio. It’s important to replace your battery at regular intervals to ensure that it works properly. Following a routine battery maintenance and replacement schedule can prevent you from going to turn on your vehicle one day, only to hear the awful noise of your engine failing to start.

The Charging System

At TIRECRAFT, we provide comprehensive charging system inspection and maintenance. We can clean your battery, battery tray, test the efficiency of your battery, battery terminal posts, clamps, and cables.

An E Test

The E Test (emissions test) is a diagnostic to check that your vehicle doesn’t emit more than the legally mandated limit of pollutants.

Exhaust

Problematic exhaust systems often make a lot of noise. If you hear loud or odd noises, please visit TIRECRAFT to get your exhaust system checked out.

Hard Shifting

When you shift gears, the transition should be smooth. Hard shifting is annoying at best, and at worst, it can portend major safety issues. If you experience hard shifting or grinding, please visit TIRECRAFT as soon as possible.

Misfires

A car misfiring is often its way of telling you that something is wrong. Rough running often accompanies misfires, as does engine stalling.

Rough Running

There are many possible causes of rough running, including a problematic oxygen sensor (or O2 sensor), clogged fuel filters, and a compromised fuel pump. When you experience rough running, it’s wise to bring your vehicle in for a diagnostic.

The TPMS

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) assesses the air pressure of your tires. This system will tell you when your tires have lost air pressure, but only if it’s calibrated correctly.

Warning Lights

Your dashboard warning lights are another important safety feature of your vehicle. They tell you when there’s something wrong. That’s why if you see your dash warning lights turn on, the right thing to do is to visit a TIREFRACT facility so we can check the issue out. Please don’t ignore your dash lights.

Contact Tirecraft to Learn More About Diagnostics.

If you’re interested in arranging a vehicle diagnostic or any other automotive service, please contact your local TIRECRAFT location today.

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