Can Advance Auto Parts check the engine light? (all you must know)
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When the check engine light illuminates your dashboard, you must inspect the vehicle to determine the real problem.
So if this happens to your car while driving, you need to get a professional to check the problem, so you might be wondering – can Advance Auto Parts check the engine light? Here’s everything you need to know!
Can Advance Auto Parts check my engine light in 2022?
Fortunately, if your check engine light comes on in 2022, the Advance Auto Parts store can do a free engine code scan on most OBD II vehicles. However, Advance Auto Parts may not be able to address all questions raised by readers; instead, if you need a full diagnosis, the staff on site will refer you to a local professional technician.
For more information on Advance Auto Parts service, if your check light engine is on, and how Advance Auto diagnoses different codes, read on!
Will Advance Auto Parts charge you to check the engine light?
If you go to the Advance Auto Parts store with the check engine light on, the staff will check and read the code for you free of charge.
While retailers check these codes for free, if you need a more detailed diagnosis to resolve the code, the staff will refer you to another technician.
How does Advance Auto Parts check the engine light?
Advance Auto Parts will help you read and diagnose codes when the check light engine is on.
When this light is on, it means that the sensor has sent readings to your engine computer that some parameters are abnormal.
When you go to any Advance Auto Parts store, staff can scan the OBD II code and identify the trouble code that caused the check engine light to come on.
The fault codes are classified as P and indicate problems with the engine, emissions and transmission.
The B is for airbags, lighting and climate control; the C is for the chassis, including steering, anti-lock brakes and suspension, and the U is for network communications.
Advance Auto Parts staff will read these fault codes for you.
However, if your vehicle requires further and more comprehensive diagnosis, you will be referred to another mechanic for assistance.
If you need to purchase any parts to fit your car, the Advance Auto Parts staff will guide you to find what you need.
However, since the retailer is not a mechanic shop, you can have a local mechanic fix the parts.
Additionally, some drivers say retailers like Advance Auto Parts are not legally allowed to clear fault codes to avoid putting drivers on the road if the problem persists.
How long does the diagnostic check engine light take?
When you drive to the Advance Auto Parts store to check the check engine light, the process takes about a minute after inserting the card reader.
You can get the code right away and the staff can advise you if you need some replacement parts from the store or need further diagnosis.
Do all premium auto parts stores check engine lights?
Since this is a free service, all Advance Auto Parts stores can check your engine light and read the code for you.
While employees can’t fix all fault codes, they can quickly read and identify issues affecting your vehicle.
Can you check the engine light yourself?
If you don’t have access to any Advance Auto Parts store, you can check the engine light yourself using an OBD reader.
Fortunately, this code reading takes a few minutes, and you can hand it over to a professional technician to explain what’s wrong.
In addition, you can bring your reading material to the Advance Auto Parts store and ask the staff.
What triggers the check engine light?
If your check engine light is on, it may be due to:
faulty spark plug
If you drive with faulty spark plugs, you will affect your car’s fuel economy and overall performance.
When this happens, the engine stalls and your car shuts off, triggering the check engine light.
Missing air cap
Your vehicle needs an air cap to seal the fuel system and help maintain pressure in the fuel tank.
When this cap is damaged or loose, you will start to lose fuel to evaporate, which will prompt the check engine light to come on.
Oxygen sensor failure
When your vehicle’s oxygen sensor fails, your vehicle will display multiple engine codes. Therefore, you need to replace them immediately before getting back on the road.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on Does Advance Auto Parts Use Used Oil, Does Advance Auto Parts Turn Rotors, and Does Advance Auto Parts Check Codes.
in conclusion
If your check engine light is on, the Advance Auto Parts store can do a free engine code scan on most OBD II vehicles.
However, Advance Auto Parts may not be able to address all of the questions raised by readers. Instead, if you need a full diagnosis, staff will refer you to a local professional technician.
