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Computer Diagnostic Service

Some motorists wonder why All Pro Servicenter and other Des Moines auto repair shops charge a fee for diagnostic services. Think about it: When you hire a local Des Moines HVAC technician to check out a problem with your air conditioner, you’ll probably pay a diagnostic fee. When you visit your doctor for a health problem, you pay the physician to diagnose the ailment and for the tests that go along with it.

So, receiving a diagnostic charge at All Pro Servicenter for a tricky automotive problem shouldn’t be a surprise. In the Des Moines area, automotive diagnostics can cover quite a range. If you hear a noise in your brakes when you slow down in rush-hour traffic, you may turn for the next off-ramp and take a quick visual check. That is usually enough to know what needs to be done. If you’re having an intermittent problem with your sedan engine, however, All Pro Servicenter’s diagnosis may be much more involved.

There’s a common misconception among Ankeny, Johnston, and West Des Moines drivers that the trouble code tells the All Pro Servicenter technician exactly what’s wrong. They wonder why there is a diagnostic charge because the scanner quickly gave the diagnosis. In reality, it is not that easy and straightforward. The computer monitors many sensors throughout the vehicle. When one of these sensors has a reading that’s out of parameters, the computer will record a trouble code and turn on the check engine light.

The vehicle’s computer’s trouble code only tells the All Pro Servicenter technician what engine parameter is out of range, not what’s causing it. The technician needs to determine the underlying problem that’s causing the malfunction. There are many problems that could cause a troublesome sensor reading for different makes and models of vehicles. The All Pro Servicenter service advisor makes a list of the most likely causes and begins tracking down the source of the problem.

Des Moines service centers subscribe to databases that document possible causes for all the possible trouble codes. The databases outline procedures for confirming a diagnosis and provide the documented repair. These essential databases are specific to each vehicle and engine combination.

Some diagnoses are quick and easy. Others are more involved, time-consuming, and difficult. Of course, All Pro Servicenter wants to figure out what’s wrong with your vehicle and get you back on the road as quickly as possible!

We are happy to help!

Need a Computer Diagnostic Ran on Your Car?

Make an appointment with All Pro Servicenter today.

Computer Diagnostic Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a car diagnostic test?

Some diagnoses are quick and easy. Others are more involved, time-consuming, and difficult. The price will depend on the complexity of the diagnostic. All Pro offers fair, honest pricing and will get you back on the road as quickly as possible!

Why is my check engine light on?

The check engine light comes on when the engine management computer has sensed a problem. This can mean one or more issues are detected in your car, a computer diagnostic can pinpoint these issues so the proper service can be done.