Diagnostics: to identify a specific problem or symptom and its cause, as described by client. This may include one or more of the following depending solely on the specific symptoms. Scan Computer for DTC's "Diagnostic Trouble Codes", Visual Inspection, Current Draw Analysis, Fuel Pressure Test, Charging System Analysis, Engine Scope Analysis, Cooling System Pressure Test, Current Ramping, Cylinder Balance Test and much more.
Note: Diagnosis does not repair a problem, it is a method of determining the problem. Much the same as an X-Ray, MRI, Cat Scan and ECG. After Diagnosis, we then have the knowledge of what is occurring within your vehicle's main systems and can then accurately repair the problem. Thus preventing unnecessary and costly repairs or "exploratory surgeries".

WHY SHOULD I PAY FOR DIAGNOSIS?

With the day and age of electronics on our vehicles, diagnostics is required to identify what is going on behind the scenes. In the long run it saves money spent on guessing what the problem is based on symptoms and sounds. Our vehicles have been computer controlled since the early 80's and require a scanner to hook-up to the system to retrieve the data, which then is interpreted by a qualified technician.
There is only one Check Engine "Service Engine" light on a  vehicle. When this light comes on, it doesn't just mean add oil. There are hundreds of problems "some small-some serious" that the computer senses, and in turn lights the check engine "service engine" light. Some have symptoms you can feel, others have none. Please note that because your computer stored a code about a specific component, that doesn't necessarily mean that part must be changed. Often a technician will scan a vehicle with multiple codes. It takes a qualified technician to determine which codes are set from part failure, and which were set by a sensor going out of range, due to the other part failing. Or if you actually have a failure in multiple sensors. Otherwise, you would pay for both parts

Diagnostic equipment and training is costly. Not just any mechanic is a diagnostician, much the same as Dr.'s we all have our specialties.

HOW DO I EXPLAIN THE SYMPTOMS?

Having your vehicle diagnosed properly  is cost effective in the end. Be sure to give detailed information about your problem, complaint, and symptoms if any. Let your service advisor know the details, such as:

sounds: loud, metallic, rattle, growl, clunks
smells: sweet, foul, rotten eggs, fuel
feels like: vibration, pulls, shutters, power loss, drags, surges,
when: on turns, on acceleration, on deceleration, in morning, after warm up, after cool down,
sight: fluid loss, color, location, something hanging, light on,

HOW LONG WILL YOU HAVE MY VEHICLE?

The more detail you give, the faster and more accurate the diagnosis will be.
Please be realistic when  having your vehicle diagnosed. It does take time to properly diagnose a vehicle. Therefore please be prepared to drop off your vehicle and allow the technician to do his/her job properly/efficiently.  You will not be charged for the time your vehicle is here, but only the time the technician is required to spend on it. Most vehicles will be completed on the same day, some exceptions would be if the problem is intermittent or happens only in the morning. We must have the vehicle here long enough to replicate the problem, repair it and confirm the fix by retesting before returning it to you.
 If your vehicle is required to be kept overnight, it will be kept indoors and Hertz can provide you with a rental car at very reasonable rates. Most rental vehicles are $35.00 per day for a midsize, and we can arrange for them to pick you up at our garage.

BASIC COMPUTER SCAN

Hook up scanner and retrieve DTC's

DIAGNOSTIC LEVEL 1

Hook up scanner and retrieve DTC'S, visual inspection (if required), evaluate data and search computer database for ECM  "Electronic Control Modules" updates and service bulletins for known relevant problems. Prepare report and estimate based on finding. Up to 30 minutes.

DIAGNOSTIC LEVEL 2

Hook up scanner and retrieve DTC'S, evaluate data and search database for vehicle computer updates, and service bulletins for known relevant problems. Visual Inspection. Hook up additional test equipment i.e. hand held scope, fuel pressure tester, lab scope, etc. as required, based on symptoms.  Prepare report and estimate based on finding.  Retest after repair, if relevant. Up to 1 hour.

ADDITIONAL DIAGNOSTIC TIME

Additional Diagnostic Time will be billed in 15 minute increments.

OTHER DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES AND CHARGES

There are several other types of diagnosis than those listed above. A few of the basic ones are listed below for you. If there is a set price, that applies across the board to all vehicles; it is listed. The service advisor will determine what diagnostic fees (if any) will apply to your vehicle and given problems/symptoms. These fees will be included on the estimate when you drop off the vehicle or when he/she contacts you for approval.

Charging System Analysis
Includes check battery, check alternator output & diodes, check starter, check for excessive draw.

Cooling System Pressure Test
Includes hook up test equipment and pressurize system for analysis. Inspect radiator, hoses, cooling lines, water pump and radiator cap. Test Coolant condition and temp range.

Fuel System Pressure Test -
Includes visual inspection of all fuel lines, hoses and related components that are visible, Hook up test equipment and pressure test system. Record fuel pressures and check database for vehicle fuel pressure specifications.