Fault diagnosis (read-out)

Modern vehicles have many electronic control units (engine, gearbox, brakes, airbags, etc.) that constantly monitor sensors and actuators. When something is wrong, they store fault codes (DTCs – Diagnostic Trouble Codes) and often switch on a warning light. A fault diagnosis (read-out) connects a diagnostic device to the vehicle's OBD port and reads these codes so we can see what the vehicle has logged.

A read-out alone does not always pinpoint the exact cause – a code may indicate a sensor fault, a wiring problem or a mechanical issue. We interpret the codes together with your description of the symptoms (e.g. when the light came on, loss of power, rough idle) and, if necessary, carry out further checks (e.g. live data, visual inspection). We then explain the result and recommend repairs. You are not obliged to have the work done with us.

• Read-out: We connect our diagnostic tool to the OBD port (usually in the footwell or under the steering column) and read fault codes from all accessible control units (engine, gearbox, ABS/ESP, airbag, etc.). We also read freeze-frame data where available (e.g. speed, load, temperature when the fault occurred).
• Interpretation: We interpret the codes and explain what they mean in plain language. We take into account your description of the problem (e.g. warning light, loss of power, high fuel consumption) and, if needed, look at live data (e.g. sensor values) to narrow down the cause.
• Recommendation: We tell you what is wrong and what we recommend (repair, replacement part, further checks). We give you a quote for the repair; you decide whether and when to have it done.
• Clear codes: After a repair we clear the fault codes and check that the warning light goes out. In some cases we clear codes only for a re-test (e.g. after fixing an issue that caused an HU failure) – we will explain when that is appropriate.

We use professional diagnostic equipment that can communicate with the control units of common vehicle brands. For some makes we have brand-specific or extended functions (e.g. coding, adaptations).

• Vehicle – the diagnostic device must be connected to the vehicle with the ignition on (engine running if required for some tests).
• Description of the problem: When did the warning light come on? Does it stay on or flash? Any other symptoms (loss of power, rough idle, high consumption, etc.)? The more you tell us, the better we can interpret the codes and find the cause.

You do not need to bring registration documents or ID for a read-out.

Read-out vs. repair: A read-out shows what the vehicle has logged and helps us recommend a repair. You pay for the diagnosis; any repair is quoted separately and is only carried out with your approval. You are not obliged to have the work done with us.

Duration: A simple read-out and explanation usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes. If we need to check live data or carry out further tests, it can take longer.

Warning: Do not ignore warning lights (especially red ones such as oil pressure or brake). If in doubt, drive carefully to us or have the vehicle recovered – we can then read the codes and advise.