How to reduce costly vehicle repairs

When a car’s check engine light illuminates, it does not always signal an immediate emergency, but ignoring it can lead to expensive repairs.

Knowing the cause can save drivers hundreds or thousands of dollars. Many auto parts stores provide free diagnostic testing to identify warning light indications, and newer vehicles may offer details through manufacturer apps. These issues can range from a minor problem, such as a loose gas cap, to more significant mechanical failures.

Clay Brooks, a diagnostic technician at Copper Lake Automotive, explains that a steady check engine light often indicates an issue that needs attention, but not necessarily that the car is about to fail.

“It doesn’t mean that your car is about to cut off on you. Sometimes it can, but more often than not, it’s just an indicator that you need to be aware you’ve got an issue,” Brooks said.

He advises drivers to check their gauges for overheating or other warning lights and to note any unusual noises or behaviors from the car, which can help reduce a mechanic’s diagnostic time.

The check engine light can signal a variety of problems, including issues with the evaporative emission system, misfires, oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, transmission problems or safety systems. These malfunctions can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and may cause a vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Postponing even minor repairs can result in more extensive and costly damage in the future. Providing mechanics with detailed observations about a vehicle’s behavior can significantly shorten the diagnostic process.

“The less we have to work, obviously, the less it costs the consumer,” Brooks noted.

However, not all check engine light situations are non-urgent. Brooks emphasizes that a flashing check engine light demands immediate attention. “When your check-engine light is flashing, it’s not a time for convenience, it’s a time a sense of urgency,” he stated. He also recommends drivers seek out repair shops that invest in their technicians and utilize proper diagnostic tools, such as borescopes with small cameras, to ensure accurate and efficient repairs.

Clark Howard advises vehicle owners to establish a relationship with a reliable mechanic before their car experiences issues. His website, Clark.com, features four steps to assist in finding such a mechanic.

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