Since 1996, all vehicles have been produced with an on-board diagnostic system. This system is in line with the engine management control system, and records incidents with sensors, temperature, levels of certain gases, and general engine drivability. Whenever one of these sensors detects a reading “out of spec”, it records the issues and will typically throw a “Check Engine” or other warning light, and store a trouble code for later evaluation.

With a trouble light or other drivability problem, once we get the vehicle we will tap into the on-board diagnostic with our own diagnostic equipment to read the code(s) and to pinpoint any areas of potential failure. With this equipment, we save a lot of time that, in earlier days, would take hours to find first the symptoms, then the failed part or faulty operation.

While diagnostics is usually focused on drivability problems, it can also highlight pending issues as well. It’s safe to say that with the “eyes and ears” of today’s diagnostic systems and equipment, much time is saved and far less money needs to be spent in pinpointing powertrain problems. If your vehicle has a trouble light illuminated, or feels sluggish let USA Automotive do a complete diagnostic and show you what’s needed to make your vehicle run properly again.