subject: What Are Diagnostic Codes For A Car [print this page] Sometimes when you have a big machine, it is very complicated. Therefore, in order to tell how to run it or if there is a problem running it, you need a little bit of assistance. The same goes for a car engine. In order to diagnose problems more efficiently, the car manufacturer's came up with diagnostic codes that can help detect when there is a problem with a certain part of the car. The codes could be a light on the dashboard telling you the oil is getting low or else they could be signaling trouble within the engine. No matter what light or message flashes on your dashboard, you should have it checked out to make sure the car will keep performing like it should as you travel down the road.
Checking a Diagnostic Code Message
The diagnostic code can be checked in one of two ways. You can do it or you can go to a service center and have them check it out for you. The codes can be read from a machine that all automotive part stores have. However, they will not do it for you. You will have to get in to your dash and find the right wires to plug in to have the code displayed. When you go to a service center, they will perform the check for you. They will know what the codes mean and will then be able to give you an estimate of what needs to be fixed.
Fixing the Status of a Diagnostic Code
There is a wide range of codes that could show up on the diagnostic meter. The code could signal a problem with an oxygen sensor in the exhaust system or it could be that there is a large problem developing in the pistons. The technician reading the code or the one that you give the code to will be able to look under the hood and accurately see what the problem could be. Once they look under the hood, then they can form an opinion and give an estimate as to the problem, the amount of time it will take to fix and what the projected cost will be.
Don't Disregard Diagnostic Codes for Safety Reasons
If a diagnostic code flashes on your dashboard, but the engine still sounds and acts like it is fine, then what do you do? The answer is that you should proceed on to your destination as scheduled, but then as soon as you have the time, take it in for service or check out the code yourself to see what it meant. It might not be a huge problem now, but it could lead to one in the future if you ignore it. Don't ignore the codes just because the engine seems to be working fine, because you never know what problem may be lingering just under the surface. It is better to have a code checked out and find out it is a false alarm rather than continue on without checking and discover it was something that could have been prevented or even fixed earlier and easier than it can be now.
