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Check Engine Light Diagnostics in Grand Junction, CO

Don't Let a Dashboard Warning Turn Into a Bigger Problem

Few things are more frustrating than starting your vehicle and seeing the check engine light staring back at you.

 

Sometimes the cause is relatively simple. Other times, the warning can point toward an engine, emissions, ignition, fuel, electrical, or drivability concern that needs to be addressed before it develops into a more expensive repair. 

 

At Simpson Brothers Garage, we provide professional check engine light diagnostics in Grand Junction, CO for domestic and import cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and fleet vehicles. Our ASE-certified technicians use modern diagnostic equipment and hands-on testing to determine what is behind the warning rather than relying on the trouble code alone. 

 

If your check engine light has appeared, call Simpson Brothers Garage at (970) 241-6682 to schedule a diagnostic inspection.

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What Your Vehicle's Computer Is Telling You

Modern vehicles constantly monitor engine performance and emissions through a network of sensors and electronic control systems.


When the vehicle's computer detects something outside its expected operating range, it can record a diagnostic trouble code and activate the check engine light.


That code is valuable information, but it is not necessarily the final diagnosis.


A code related to an oxygen sensor, for example, does not automatically mean the sensor itself needs to be replaced. The technician may need to determine whether the sensor is faulty or whether another condition is causing the sensor to report an abnormal reading.


That's why professional diagnostics involve more than simply connecting a scanner.

Common Problems Behind a Check Engine Light

A check engine warning can be associated with many different conditions, including:


  • Ignition coil or spark plug problems
  • Oxygen sensor faults
  • Fuel system concerns
  • Air intake problems
  • EVAP system leaks
  • Catalytic converter issues
  • Vacuum leaks
  • Mass airflow sensor problems
  • Engine sensor failures
  • Emissions system faults
  • Electrical or wiring problems
  • Engine performance issues

Because several different problems can produce similar symptoms, accurate testing is important before deciding what needs to be repaired.

Our Diagnostic Approach

At Simpson Brothers Garage, diagnostics are designed to help determine the cause of the vehicle's problem instead of encouraging unnecessary parts replacement.


  • Depending on the symptoms, diagnostic work may include:
  • Retrieving stored diagnostic trouble codes
  • Reviewing vehicle data
  • Checking sensor operation
  • Inspecting related components
  • Testing electrical circuits
  • Looking for air or vacuum leaks
  • Evaluating engine performance
  • Performing additional testing when necessary

Once the problem has been identified, our team can explain what was found and discuss the repair options with you.

What If the Check Engine Light Goes Away?

A warning that disappears isn't necessarily a problem that has been permanently corrected.


Some faults are intermittent and only occur under specific driving conditions.


If the light has appeared multiple times, make sure to mention that when scheduling your appointment. The history of the warning can be just as useful as what the vehicle is doing when it arrives at the shop.

Solid vs. Flashing Check Engine Lights

A solid check engine light does not automatically mean the vehicle must be towed.


If your vehicle is operating normally, you may be able to drive it to a repair facility for diagnosis.


A flashing warning deserves more attention, particularly when accompanied by severe shaking, loss of power, or other significant engine symptoms.


If the vehicle is operating abnormally, avoid continuing to drive it farther than necessary.

Diagnostics for Domestic and Import Vehicles

Viking Automotive services both domestic and import vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs from a wide range of manufacturers. The shop lists makes including Ford, Chevrolet, Honda, Toyota, Subaru, Nissan, Jeep, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, Mazda, and others.


That broad coverage allows drivers to use one local repair facility for diagnostics and many of the repairs that may follow.

Check Engine Diagnostics and Emissions Testing

A check engine light can sometimes be connected to an emissions-related problem.


Viking Automotive also provides emissions testing and safety inspections in Midvale.


If you're dealing with a warning light before an emissions inspection, diagnosing the underlying problem first can help determine what needs to be repaired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Schedule Check Engine Diagnostics in Midvale

A dashboard warning shouldn't leave you guessing about what is happening underneath the hood.


If your check engine light has appeared or your vehicle has developed unusual performance symptoms.


Contact Viking Automotive for professional computer diagnostics.


Call (801) 838-8898 or visit 6905 S State St, Midvale, UT 84047 to schedule service.


Viking Automotive is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.