Understanding The Basics Of Computerized Car Diagnostic Test

September 21, 2021 11:42 am

The vast majority of modern vehicles on road these days are more computerized than ever before and undoubtedly it’s a good thing.

Computerization basically allows vehicles to be thoroughly checked with self-running diagnostic tests to keep them in their optimal working condition by preventing errors or malfunctions that can cause dangerous troubles.

With the relevance of car computerized diagnosis increasing in modern times, let’s have a look at its basics and whereabouts:

 

1. What is a car diagnostic test?

A computerized car diagnostic test is the digital analysis of a car’s various computer systems and components. With the advanced digitization of vehicles, using specialized software, one can monitor various features and create data reports that can then be collected and analyzed during a car diagnostic test.

During car diagnostic tests, a detailed scanning takes place of your car’s components and systems to check for issues with its various components. As these diagnostic tests call for specific devices and expertise to perform accurately, they are to be performed with the help of mechanics at designated centers. However, with the right knowledge and equipment, one can also perform it at home.

2. What parts of the car are tested?

With the advancement of technology, car diagnostic tests can analyze and reveal various parts of the car such as its engine, individual components, transmission and responsiveness, exhaust systems and its potential contamination or faults, brakes and their responsiveness, fuel injector, airflow, coolant, ignition coils, throttle, etc and their wear and tear or breakage.

Even though these test results can help in evaluating the car’s state, always keep in mind that car diagnostic tests results are not perfectly accurate and should not be therefore taken as the last word. These reports can only be helpful in narrowing down the location of an issue or potential error so that the technicians or mechanics can identify and rectify them at the earliest.

3. How often should one do a car diagnostic test?

Car owners or drivers do not have to wait for the check engine light to flash as the indication to take the car to a car diagnostic center. In case you hear or feel something “off” while driving the car, you can use diagnostic testing to analyze and determine if there are any actual issues with the car.

Technicians recommend taking the car diagnostic test at least once a year. However, it’s ideal to perform a  car diagnostic test once every season (quarterly)so that it can uncover minor problems that can’t be seen or heard and could cause serious trouble in the future.

4. How long does a car diagnostic test take?

Commonly performed car diagnostic tests use a car diagnostic scanner and diagnostic software take often anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour or so depending on the diagnostic center and its customers.

However, like mentioned before, remember that carrying out the test is just the determination of the maintenance process that is actually required for your car and the real repair can take much more time and effort.

5. How much does a car diagnostic test cost?

Car diagnostics costs can vary broadly depending on your car’s make, model, and the potential issues it could have. However, basic tests that don’t turn up any significant issues can be as affordable as somewhere around AED 150 and the cost could go up to AED 800 for the in-depth evaluation and their related repairs.

Regular check-ups and maintenance are undoubtedly essential for a car to retain its smoothness and driving comfort. Pal Auto Garage offers various services like car diagnostics and much more, that can give you accurate analytics of your car and its performance. Feel free to get in touch with palautogarage