My car broke down! What should I do?

"My car broke down — what should I do?"

The first and most important stage of any repair is diagnostics. Proper diagnostics is 50% of a successful repair.

Some might say: “Why do I need diagnostics? I can just go to AutoZone or O’Reilly, read the error codes, and not spend a penny.”

Auto parts stores do offer free code reading services, but only a professional can correctly interpret and analyze that information.

Here’s an example: you can take a blood test or an X-ray, but only a doctor with the right education and experience can study the results and make accurate conclusions.

Moreover, reading error codes is only one part of a complete vehicle diagnostic.

A true full diagnostic may include:

– Reading and carefully analyzing computer codes;

– Visual inspection of the engine bay;

– Lifting the vehicle, removing protection covers, inspecting for leaks;

– Checking all accessible fluids;

– Inspecting cylinder and valve condition with a borescope;

– Measuring compression;

and much more.

An experienced specialist who regularly services your vehicle can also warn you about potential issues before they happen — so they don’t catch you by surprise on the road.