Mar 22, 2024
A black 2024 Nissan Sentra | Nissan dealer in Altoona, PA | Courtesy Nissan PA

When there’s something wrong under the hood of your car, an engine diagnostic can streamline the process of diagnosing and fixing your vehicle when you visit the Nissan dealer. You need one regularly even if your car doesn’t have performance issues, and you definitely need one when there’s something wrong with the vehicle.


What Is an Engine Diagnostic?

A diagnostic for your engine is a test to determine if all the systems in your car are working as they should. A technician at your local dealership analyses computer systems in your car to check for issues with the systems and their components. A diagnostic requires specific devices and specialized knowledge to be carried out correctly, and it saves your technician a lot of time. Instead of having to check every part of your car manually, they can run the diagnostic.


How Often to Get a Diagnostic for Your Nissan

It’s smart to get a diagnostic test for your engine annually, as this will help you keep on top of any problems that arise. Even if your car seems fine, there could be minor issues that aren’t yet serious enough to activate the check engine light or make your car act strangely.


When to Stop by the Nissan Dealer for a Diagnostic

When Your Check Engine Light Turns On

When your check engine light turns on, it’s a clear sign that there’s something wrong with one of the systems in your car. The technician at your dealership will run a diagnostic to find out why the check engine light has switched on.


When You Buy a Used Car

If you’re buying a car from your local dealership, then you’re guaranteed to be buying a car that’s in excellent working condition. However, you should still be safe and get a diagnostic test just to give yourself some additional peace of mind. If there’s nothing wrong with the car, then your dealer will be happy to arrange the test for you.


When Your Car Makes Weird Noises

Cars aren’t supposed to make whining, clanking, grinding, or rattling sounds. These noises let you know that one of the systems in your car is in trouble, and you’d better get to the dealer soon before your car starts experiencing performance issues. The mechanic will run a diagnostic to find out why your car is making these unusual sounds. Usually, it’s because one of the components in your car has worn out or become damaged.


When Your Car Is Having Performance Issues

Any time your car starts having performance issues, you need to head right to the dealer. They could be simple issues, such as occasional backfiring, or they could be serious issues, like the engine producing smoke. Even decreased gas mileage warrants a trip to the dealer.

If your car is acting strangely in any way, then don’t hesitate to head to the dealer. Visit Courtesy Nissan PA in Altoona, PA today.