Most modern cars are more electronic on the inside than ever before, and let’s be honest, that’s a good thing. In fact, this allows modern cars to be thoroughly checked with self-running diagnostic tests to keep your vehicle in optimal working order. These tests can scan components and a car’s integrated systems for errors or malfunctions before they become truly dangerous.
Let’s break down what car diagnostic tests are and examine their various benefits so you know when and why you should ask for them at your next maintenance appointment.
A car diagnostic test is a digital analysis of your car’s various computer systems and components. Modern vehicles are much more digitized than people may be aware of. Specialized software works whenever your car’s engine is powered on to monitor various features and create data reports that can then be collected and analysed during a car diagnostic test.
Car diagnostic tests scan your car’s components and systems to check for issues with components like the engine, transmission, oil tank, throttle, and many more.
Because car diagnostic tests require specific devices and expertise to read correctly, most tests are performed with mechanics or at dealer shops. However, you can also perform a car diagnostic test at home if you have the proper knowledge and equipment.
Car diagnostic tests are typically carried out when a vehicle’s dashboard shows a “check engine” signal or other warning light illumination. They can also be performed as part of regular maintenance appointments.
These days, car diagnostic tests analyse various aspects of your vehicle. Exactly, they check for:
Though these results can help drivers assess their vehicle’s state, keep in mind that car diagnostic tests are not perfectly accurate. They cannot tell the technician or tester precisely what the problem is in many cases. Instead, they’re used to narrow down the location of an issue or potential error so that mechanics can more quickly identify and take care of a problem for drivers.