At some point, every car owner experiences the dreaded moment when their vehicle starts acting up, making strange noises, or displaying warning lights on the dashboard. In such situations, a trip to the mechanic is a must. Still, there is always a bit of trepidation: Is it a $400 problem or a $2,400 problem? That means a diagnostic test is the crucial first step in getting your car back on the road.
When you call the service department at Mike White Ford to set up an appointment for a problem that is not identified (as opposed to maintenance), one of the first things you will learn is that the dealership will run a diagnostic test on the car and that there is a fee for the test even before repair work has begun. In addition, there will be a fee for the diagnostic service.
Some people balk when they learn this. After all, they think, don’t computers do all the work? How hard is it to “plug” the car into a diagnostic computer and press the button? Why should I pay a fee for a diagnostic test when it doesn’t take any work?
The reality is very different, however. Contrary to popular belief, a service diagnostic procedure at a vehicle dealership involves much more than simply running a computer test. Here is an explanation of the various steps involved in correctly diagnosing a car problem that may help you understand why a car dealership may charge a higher fee than some customers expect.
Step 1: Computer Diagnostic Analysis
As most customers surmise, the first step in the service diagnostic test is running a computer diagnostic analysis. Modern vehicles are equipped with complex onboard computer systems that constantly monitor various aspects of the car’s performance. When a problem arises, the car’s computer stores error codes. The diagnostic test will provide a readout of these codes, which can provide valuable insights into where the issue lies. However, these error codes are often just the starting point for diagnosing the root of the problem.
Step 2: Understanding the Error Codes
Error codes identify which sensors are being tripped by the problem. However, the error codes cannot explain precisely what is wrong. Even if an error code identifies the particular part or system with problems, it cannot pinpoint why the sensor is being tripped.
Interpreting the error codes requires expertise and experience. For example, the diagnostic test will sometimes output several different codes. Does this mean there are several problems, each needing separate repairs? Possibly. But an experienced Ford-trained technician can analyze the codes based on experience, training, and access to a vast database of information on the Ford vehicle’s specific year and model. Using these diagnostic methods, a mechanic may be able to identify a system-level problem or discover a sequential issue in which one problem has led to the triggering of several additional error codes. In other words, computer diagnostics can only do so much. You need trained and experienced technicians to deduce what the error codes may indicate.
Step 3: Hands-On Investigation
Even with helpful and accurate data, however, you still cannot rely solely on a computer or intellectual analysis to assess a mechanical problem on a car. At some point, you have to get your hands dirty.
After a computer diagnosis and a mechanic’s review of the data that helps you narrow down the possibilities, the next step is to conduct a thorough hands-on investigation, inspecting various car components. This physical examination is vital in understanding the context surrounding the error codes and identifying any underlying problems that may not be immediately evident from computer diagnostics.
You can analogize the procedure to a medical exam. Even if you explain your symptoms to a doctor, you would be shocked if all the doctor did was write you a prescription without conducting an examination or any tests. A hands-on investigation is necessary to confirm or discount the suspected cause, identify the cause of the problem, and determine the appropriate remedy.
Step 4: Specialized Testing
In many cases, even if a mechanic feels confident about a specific diagnosis after a physical inspection, the mechanic can perform more specialized testing on particular components. These tools go beyond basic computer diagnostics; they can assess the functionality of vehicle systems such as emissions control, airbags, and electronic stability control.
Step 5: Collaborative Diagnosis
In addition, our Ford mechanics work with one another to verify their analysis. While every technician in our service department is certified, they have varying levels of experience. Our mechanics are encouraged to consult with other mechanics to confirm any diagnosis, particularly where questions remain, or something does not fit an expected pattern. Like good doctors, our technicians frequently consult with colleagues or seek guidance from manufacturer databases and technical support when resolving challenging issues.
Step 6: Identifying the Repair Work
Once the problem has been pinpointed, the technician can outline the repair work needed to bring the vehicle into good working order. The mechanic can identify the parts that need replacing and estimate the time necessary to do the job. This breakdown ensures transparency to our customers so you can understand what repairs are needed and why.
Our Diagnostic Tests Translate into Quality Service and Peace of Mind
Now that you understand how our dealership undertakes service diagnostics, we hope you can appreciate why we charge a fee to carry out a diagnostic test and also why it may take several hours before you get a call from us to explain what is wrong with your vehicle and what is needed to repair it.
At Mike White Ford, we know that many auto stores or mechanics offer to “diagnose” your car’s problem for free or a relatively low fee. But replacing a part based on a computer diagnostic is no guarantee that your vehicle will be fixed. There may be occasions when problems are simple and easily remedied without a deep dive into all the possibilities, but are you prepared to bank your family’s safety and your car’s longevity on a simple computer readout? If your problem is easy to solve, you can be sure we will let you know and respond accordingly. But you also have the assurance that your vehicle has been thoroughly checked out.
When the service department at Mike White Ford diagnoses a problem and repairs it, you can be sure that we have pinpointed the cause and source of your problem, and we will stand by our work. Our service diagnostic tests entail a comprehensive process that involves much more than just running a computer test. From computer diagnostic analysis to hands-on investigation and collaborative efforts, you can trust that your car is in the hands of qualified professionals dedicated to getting it running smoothly again for the long haul. Contact Mike White Ford to schedule a service appointment.