Every vehicle built since 1996 has been equipped with an On-Board Diagnostics System that monitors engine performance. Discrepancies in performance levels are reported through your vehicle’s computer system. Once the “check engine” or “service engine” light is displayed, your next step should be to seek out an engine diagnostic service or an engine tune-up. Engine diagnostics allow our staff to gather helpful information about the operating condition of your engine. The insights obtained during an engine diagnostic will determine the extent of suggested engine repairs. The most common diagnostic trouble codes are generated in response to malfunctions in the powertrain. Ultimately, regular engine tune-ups are necessary to optimize engine performance. A tune-up is also one of the most effective ways to prevent unexpected engine trouble. During an engine tune-up, our staff may replace the spark plugs, spark plug wires, air filter, fuel filter, and distributor cap and rotor in your vehicle. Our experts will also check emission levels, fuel lines, and belts and hoses. Engine diagnostics and regular engine tune-ups can help extend the life of your vehicle and improve the health of your engine.

Engine Diagnostics

The OBD System, or On-Board Diagnostics System, was originally installed to monitor vehicle emissions, but it also detects problems…

Approx. Time: 60 Minutes

Engine Tune-Up

In the past, engine tune-ups were much more time consuming because they required a motorist to check a variety of parts…

Approx. Time: 180 Minutes

Check Engine or Service Soon Light

Save on services at SAN CLEMENTE AUTO CENTER with car diagnostic tests and services. When your dashboard warning lights comes on, turn to San Clemente Auto Center to check it out and get the repairs you need to get back on the road. All modern vehicles come equipped with an onboard computer diagnostic system (OBD II) that constantly monitors your vehicle’s major operating systems and most importantly the engine and transmission). The main purpose of monitoring these systems is to insure that the vehicle is operating at top efficiency with the lowest possible emissions. That means your vehicle’s electronics need to constantly adjust and fine-tune various parameters according to driving conditions. When any of these parameters do not fall within the acceptable range, your CHECK ENGINE LIGHT is lit to warn you.

There are two kinds of CHECK ENGINE LIGHT alerts:

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT or SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT ILLUMINATED

Is usually a less severe problem that shouldn’t cause immediate problems but needs to be checked as soon as possible. It will almost certainly cause an increase in emissions and a decrease in fuel economy-which can be robbing you of up to 20% fuel efficiency at each fill-up.

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT or SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT FLASHING? SAN CLEMENTE AUTO CENTER CAN FIX IT. 

Means your vehicle senses a critical system error, such as a majorcylinder misfire and you need immediate attention before potentially breaking down and possibly damaging other critical and expensive parts. In this case, the driver should park and shut off the vehicle immediately. Continuing to drive can lead to serious engine or emissions system damage or can leave you stranded.

San Clemente Auto Center has the expertise to decipher check engine light codes, quickly pin-point what is causing it, resolve the required maintenance or repair issues, and get your car on the road safely, without the worries of an illuminated check engine light. We are equipped to handle all your auto repair needs.

You certainly cannot pass California State inspection with your CHECK ENGINE LIGHT on. So the next time your dashboard warning light comes on, stop by San Clemente Auto Center and we will recommend only what needs repair. Fix it right on the first visit, every time!