Common Check Engine Light Diagnostic & Repair Costs
Basic Diagnostic Scan
Initial diagnostic scan and code reading: $125 (1 hour labor)
This is the starting point for all check engine light issues.
Oxygen Sensor Replacement
Labor: $125-$250 (1-2 hours)
Parts: $50-$300
Total Cost Range: $175-$550
Mass Air Flow Sensor
Labor: $125 (1 hour)
Parts: $120-$400
Total Cost Range: $245-$525
Catalytic Converter
Labor: $125-$375 (1-3 hours)
Parts: $400-$2,500
Total Cost Range: $525-$2,875
Spark Plug Replacement
Labor: $125-$250 (1-2 hours)
Parts: $20-$150
Total Cost Range: $145-$400
Fuel Cap Replacement
Labor: $125 (1 hour)
Parts: $20-$50
Total Cost Range: $145-$175
EVAP System Repair
Labor: $125-$375 (1-3 hours)
Parts: $150-$400
Total Cost Range: $275-$775
Ignition Coil Replacement
Labor: $125-$250 (1-2 hours)
Parts: $50-$300
Total Cost Range: $175-$550
Note: These are estimated costs and may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and year. Additional diagnostic time may be required for complex issues. Parts costs are approximate and subject to market fluctuations.
Common Check Engine Light Diagnostic Repairs
Oxygen (O2) Sensor Replacement
Typical Steps:
- Locate the faulty O2 sensor using diagnostic scanner
- Allow engine to cool completely
- Raise vehicle on lift if necessary
- Disconnect the sensor's electrical connector
- Remove old sensor using O2 sensor socket
- Install new sensor and apply anti-seize compound if needed
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Clear diagnostic codes and test
Catalytic Converter Replacement
Typical Steps:
- Verify converter failure through diagnostic testing
- Allow exhaust system to cool completely
- Raise vehicle on lift
- Remove oxygen sensors if necessary
- Remove old converter by cutting or unbolting
- Install new converter with new gaskets
- Reinstall oxygen sensors
- Clear codes and perform test drive
Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Repair
Typical Steps:
- Locate MAF sensor (typically between air filter and engine)
- Disconnect battery
- Remove sensor from air intake
- Clean sensor with MAF cleaner or replace if necessary
- Reinstall sensor
- Reconnect battery
- Clear codes and verify repair
Spark Plug Replacement
Typical Steps:
- Allow engine to cool
- Remove ignition coils or plug wires
- Remove old spark plugs using proper socket
- Gap new plugs to manufacturer specifications
- Install new plugs and torque to spec
- Reinstall coils or plug wires
- Clear codes and test engine operation
Fuel Cap Replacement
Typical Steps:
- Verify fuel cap is causing the issue
- Remove old fuel cap
- Install new OEM fuel cap
- Clear codes
- Test drive to ensure proper seal
EVAP System Repair
Typical Steps:
- Perform smoke test to locate leak
- Inspect all EVAP hoses and connections
- Replace damaged components
- Verify purge valve operation
- Replace canister if necessary
- Clear codes and verify repair with smoke test
Note: These are general repair procedures. Specific steps may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult manufacturer service information for detailed instructions.
Important:All repairs should be performed by qualified technicians using proper tools and safety equipment.
Understanding Check Engine Light Diagnostics
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Common Check Engine Light Warning Signs and Symptoms
Common Check Engine Light Diagnostics and Symptoms
Oxygen (O2) Sensor
Signs of Failure:
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Rough idling or engine misfires
- Failed emissions test
- Black exhaust smoke
Service Schedule: Typically needs replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles
Catalytic Converter
Signs of Failure:
- Reduced acceleration
- Excessive heat under vehicle
- Rotten egg smell from exhaust
- Failed emissions test
Service Schedule: Should last 10+ years under normal conditions
Mass Airflow Sensor
Signs of Failure:
- Stalling or hesitation during acceleration
- Rough idle
- Increased fuel consumption
- Hard starting
Service Schedule: Clean every 20,000-50,000 miles, replace if cleaning doesn't resolve issues
Spark Plugs/Ignition Coils
Signs of Failure:
- Engine misfires
- Poor acceleration
- Rough idle
- Hard starting
Service Schedule: Replace spark plugs every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on type
Fuel Cap
Signs of Failure:
- Gas smell
- Cap doesn't click when tightening
- Visible damage to cap
Service Schedule: Replace if damaged or seal is compromised
EVAP System
Signs of Failure:
- Fuel smell
- Poor fuel economy
- Difficulty filling gas tank
Service Schedule: Inspection recommended during routine maintenance
Battery/Charging System
Signs of Failure:
- Slow engine crank
- Dimming lights
- Battery warning light
- Electrical system issues
Service Schedule: Battery typically needs replacement every 3-5 years
Transmission Issues
Signs of Failure:
- Delayed or rough shifting
- Slipping transmission
- Grinding or shaking during gear changes
- Transmission fluid leaks
Service Schedule: Transmission fluid change every 30,000-60,000 miles
Note: These are general guidelines. Specific maintenance schedules may vary by vehicle make, model, and driving conditions. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for manufacturer-recommended service intervals.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
