Car Diagnostic Testing

Today’s vehicles are complex - basically computers on wheels. Through our car diagnostic tests, we analyze your engine and mechanical systems to identify issues and make a plan for repairs. We’ll review the results with you and advise on all repairs prior to starting any work. If your check engine light has come on or your vehicle is otherwise performing differently than usual, you can trust our experienced team of auto technicians to get to the bottom of it quickly.

When you bring your vehicle to Caliber Collision, we restore the whole car, not just what you can see. Our goal is always to ensure your vehicle is repaired to pre-collision condition - inside and out. All backed with our limited lifetime warranty.

What is a car diagnostic test?

Just as you go to the doctor for a check up, an auto diagnostic check is needed when your vehicle isn't working properly. These scans help our technicians pinpoint exactly where the issue is coming from. Before we make any repairs, we will report our findings to you. This includes:

• Visual inspection of related components
• System analysis
• Research of Technical Service Bulletins
• PinPoint testing
• Component diagnosis

What factors affect how much an auto diagnostic check may cost?

First and foremost, the make and model of your vehicle can play a role in how much this service may cost. Luxury and high-end cars generally have more technically advanced systems than standard vehicles, and they can require a more specialized approach to accurately identify issues. Additionally, the age of your car or truck can affect the price, as those built before 1996 are often missing the standardized On-Board Diagnostic (OBDII) systems that make auto diagnostic checks quicker to perform for modern vehicles.

Another cost factor to keep in mind is the complexity of the issue that has caused your check engine light to come on. Easy-to-solve problems, such as a loose gas cap or a faulty connection, typically incur minimal fees at Caliber. More intricate issues that involve your vehicle’s electrical system or emission control system will require a more in-depth car diagnostic test. 

Common reasons why a check engine light comes on

If your check engine light is on, your vehicle has a problem you likely don’t want to ignore. A few common causes for why this notification system is triggered include: 

• Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensor: The oxygen sensor measures the amount of unburned oxygen in your vehicle’s exhaust system. If it fails, the car’s performance and fuel efficiency will suffer, and the light will come on.
• Loose or Faulty Gas Cap: A loose or damaged gas cap is one of the most common reasons for a check engine light to come on. The leak disrupts the fuel system’s pressure, triggering an emissions warning.
• Faulty Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils: Damage to these components can lead to poor engine performance and misfires. After identifying this problem through an auto diagnostic check, we generally replace the spark plugs or ignition coils entirely.
• Mass Airflow Sensor Issues: This sensor helps regulate the amount of air entering your vehicle’s engine. If it fails, it can lead to a range of engine performance issues.
• Catalytic Converter Problems: The catalytic converter helps reduce emissions, and malfunctions with this component can reduce fuel efficiency, and even cause more serious damage if not addressed. 
• Malfunctioning Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve: Issues with your vehicle’s EGR system or evaporative emissions system can negatively impact engine performance.

A check engine light is a highly useful tool to alert drivers that something isn’t quite right. To avoid costly repairs down the line, get in touch with your local Caliber Collision facility and for a car diagnostic test that will get to the cause of your vehicle’s issue quickly.

Our purpose

Restoring the Rhythm of Your Life® means helping you every step of the way to get you back on the road safely. Our diagnostic test for cars and trucks, as well as our limited lifetime warranty give you peace of mind when you get behind the wheel of your vehicle. We will communicate with you throughout the repair process, so you know exactly what is happening with your vehicle.

Why Caliber Collision?

Since 1997, we've focused on providing the best services with the highest standards in mind. We restore cars to pre-collision condition and we back every single repair with a written limited lifetime warranty. With 1,800+ locations across 41 states, odds are there’s a teammate in your neighborhood ready to help with Restoring the Rhythm of Your Life®.