Dec 27, 2024


It’s never a good idea to wait until something is wrong with your car to have it checked out. Diagnostic testing is an important part of proactive maintenance that can help you keep your vehicle in great condition and avoid unnecessary repairs. We cover what you need to know below, plus why having diagnostics done by your local Lincoln dealer has more benefits than taking your car to the regular mechanic.

What Is Diagnostic Testing, and How Does It Work?  

Diagnostic assessments were first introduced to the auto industry in 1968 and involves checking the technical condition of an automobile or its parts without having to disassemble any part of the vehicle. This is done using a computerized device that connects to a car’s On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system. Any issue that the OBD has logged will be displayed on the device’s screen or printed out as an error code.

If there are replacement parts, their serial numbers will also be listed, so the dealership can easily order them and have the vehicle repaired. This means your service can be completed faster, and you can get back on the road as soon as possible. Some of the most common diagnostic errors include:

  • P00BB — Fuel Injector Insufficient Flow 
  • P0127 — Intake Air Temperature Too High 
  • P0129 — Barometric Pressure Too Low 
  • P0149 — Fuel Delivery Error 
  • P0314 — Single Cylinder Misfire 
  • P0A0F — Engine Failed to Start 

When Should I Have My Vehicle Tested? 

Your car should be tested regularly to catch any problems early enough to prevent damage to your vehicle or put your safety at risk. Having your car quickly scanned every three months or so (quarterly) is ideal, but you can also go every 6 months if your car is newer. If you’re buying a used vehicle, you should also have diagnostics done before finalizing your purchase. This can help you identify serious but hidden issues that you may want to avoid taking on yourself.  

Top Benefits of Having a Lincoln Dealer Test Your Car 

While you can schedule testing with just about any local mechanic you can find, this may not necessarily be the best course of action. This is especially true if you have a Lincoln. Not only do the team members employed at a dealership have more knowledge about your vehicle, they also have better access to branded replacement parts, so you can trust that your car is in great hands.

Contact Bayway Lincoln in Houston, TX now for more information on why vehicle diagnostics are crucial for maintaining the performance and value of your Lincoln. You can also call to schedule testing or stop by our location on Gulf Freeway, across from Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen. 

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