Back to all

The Tuffy Auto Service Center Elgin Guide to Vehicle Diagnosis

July 7, 2022

Modern Elgin vehicles have several computers on board that control all kinds of things like engine functions, transmission shifts, traction control, anti-lock brakes, stability control, emissions – and on some vehicles, even steering, braking and the throttle.

Think about that for a minute – things that used to be controlled by simple mechanical connections now have electronic controls that rely on computers, software and sensors. It's no wonder that when something goes wrong with their vehicle it can be pretty complicated for Elgin drivers to track down the source of the problem.

To help your service advisor at Tuffy Auto Service Center Elgin figure out what's wrong, your vehicle is equipped with on-board diagnostics. The Check Engine light comes on to tell you there's a problem and the engine management computer stores a trouble code. Your friendly and knowledgeable Tuffy Auto Service Center Elgin technician connects a scan tool to your vehicle's diagnostic port and retrieves the trouble codes as well as other important data.

Trouble codes are like clues for the technician to follow as he diagnoses what's wrong with your vehicle. In a way, it's like going to your Elgin doctor with a problem. She'll run some additional tests and gather the information she needs to make a diagnosis and form a treatment plan. How much a vehicle diagnosis costs at Tuffy Auto Service Center Elgin in Elgin depends on how much time it takes to sort out the symptoms and find the underlying problem.

Give us a call.

Tuffy Auto Service Center Elgin
847-717-4682
395 S. Randall Rd
Elgin, Illinois 60123

Need Service?

Request a Quote

More articles from Tuffy Elgin

Slipping into Fall (Driving with ABS Brakes)

October 12, 2025

As the weather changes over from hot to colder, drivers will have to deal with more slippery streets. And it's important to know how to drive with the brakes you have on your vehicle. In the 1970s, anti-lock braking systems (ABS) started to be installed on vehicles and they've been a game chang... More

Power Steering Pump Replacement

October 5, 2025

When youre driving and you hear a squeal or groan when you turn, it may be a sign your power steering pump is on its last legs. The same is true if you feel your steering is slipping or doesnt respond to your hands like it used to. Precise, responsive steering is, of course, important when it ... More

Road Ready (Trip Inspection)

September 28, 2025

Maybe you've been cooped up for a while and are yearning for a change of scenery. Or maybe you need to visit a relative who lives far away. You choose not to fork out the big bucks for airline tickets, so it's time for a road trip. Make sure you're road ready by having your vehicle professiona... More