What is a car diagnostic?

Modern cars have an onboard computer or Engine Control Unit (ECU). This continually assesses performance, with sensors throughout the car letting the ECU know of issues such as raised engine temperature, low fluid levels or problems with emission levels or the windscreen wipers. The ECU triggers an error once a problem has been found, and the relevant dashboard warning light will flash, but there are hundreds of potential error codes, which only specialist diagnostic equipment can read. So when a warning light flashes on the dashboard, a diagnostics check is needed to assess how bad the problem is, and what may have caused it.

We use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment

Live data shows multiple readings from across the engine to assess whether everything is working as it should. The equipment can also check and rectify braking systems where there’s an electronic handbrake, and adjust headlights where possible. You don’t need to go to a dealership to get diagnostic testing done. Most garages and workshops will carry out diagnostic testing for nearly all models and types of vehicle.

Jeep

Jeep is a brand of American automobiles, established over 70 years ago in 1943, and has been owned by the Italian-American corporation Fiat Chrysler Automobiles since 1987.

How popular is Jeep in the United Kingdom?

Jeep’s current range consists solely of SUV and off-road vehicles, but there’s plenty available for every eventuality. Whether you need a car for an out-and-out adventure or a luxury family vehicle, Jeep has something for just about anyone.

There were 83k Jeep vehicles on the UK roads by the end of 2018, a number that could show signs of growth with the marque’s plans to introduce more small and large SUVs and fully electric models to the range.

Crossing streams or navigating the school run—you can do it all in a Jeep

With a 5-year warranty and a selection of body styles and sizes, Jeep has SUVs and 4x4s that traverse the full range. With a starting price of under £20k for the compact Renegade, all the way up the ranks to the £90k Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, Jeep will get you where you’re going, however you choose to do it.

Be part of the Jeep family at Camp Jeep

For Jeep owners across Europe, and in some of the most stunning and challenging locations available, Camp Jeep gives their drivers an event of their own to celebrate the bond between the brand and its fans. With a packed programme of off-road test-driving, and theory and practical courses held by the Jeep Academy, the camp is backed up with additional social activities including hot air balloon flights, concerts and family fun and games to provide the perfect atmosphere.

You don’t get that kind of inclusion from any of the typical mainstream brands.

What happens at a Fixter car diagnostic inspection?

We charge a fixed fee for diagnostic testing that can be done while you wait. This is usually done within an hour, but if further work is required, it will clearly take more time. Our highly-trained and qualified mechanics will give you a no-charge, no-obligation repair quote if testing highlights issues with the engine or anything else, and talk you in detail through what is needed to put things right.

So next time a dashboard warning light flashes on, don’t pay dealership prices for diagnostic testing. Let us manage it all for you, picking up your car for its testing, and ensuring a fair price and a reliable service.

What happens when my dashboard illuminates a warning light?

The warning light is just the beginning—it doesn’t give the whole picture. There are hundreds of parts in your engine, so the exact nature of the fault may not be immediately apparent.

Examining fault codes to identify the problem

A diagnostic check accurately identifies the fault, avoiding more serious problems that could lead to costly repairs, potential safety hazards or worse damage. With these tests, your car is plugged into sophisticated diagnostic equipment which reads the error codes your car’s ECU has generated to explain the issue in full. Diagnostic checking looks for errors across various vehicle systems, including tyres, engine management, lights, emissions and more.