Dealing with a Check Engine Light Issue on Your Car

If you've ever had an issue with a check engine light on your car, you know how frustrating it can be to get the problem resolved. First, you have to get the issue diagnosed, which can cost $60 or more alone at a mechanic. Then you have to buy the part to fix the issue. Next you have to take the car to a mechanic or install the part yourself if you have experience with cars. Here are a few tips that can help you deal with your check engine light issue in a more efficient way.

Diagnose it Yourself

The check engine light is connected to a computer in your car called the OBD2 system. All cars made after 1996 have this computer. A mechanic will use an OBD2 reader to diagnose this issue. Instead of paying him $60 to do it for you, you can either 1) go to a local auto parts store, like Autozone or Pep Boys, and have a worker do the diagnosis for free with the store's OBD2 reader or 2) buy your own OBD2 reader for about $25.

If you choose the first option, just call the parts store to assure that they offer this free service, walk in and ask an employee for a check engine light diagnosis. The reason why the auto parts store will be happy to do a free diagnosis is because you will probably want to buy a part from the store once the OBD2 reader pinpoints the exact problem.

The second option is preferable if you have this problem often, or want to be prepared for future issues-and it's much cheaper. The OBD2 reader plugs directly into a connection under your wheel. Once it has the code, you must then connect it to your computer to get complete information about your problem.

Buying the Parts

Once you know the part that you need (if one is needed), you may want to resist the urge to buy it from your local auto parts store. The cost can be 25% or more higher as compared to buying from other outlets. And it's not a great idea to let the mechanic buy the part on your behalf, because you will pay a premium. So go online first to do a search on the part for your car. Some auto parts outlets online also offer free, cheap, or fast shipping so that you can get your problem resolved.

Getting the Car Serviced

When you bring your car in for servicing, let the mechanic know that you already have a diagnosis on the car. Bring a print out of the diagnosis from your OBD2 reader or the auto parts store where you had your free diagnosis performed. If the mechanic sees that you've done your homework and already understand the problem with your car, he will be less likely to try to overcharge you for unnecessary services.