When your vehicle’s check engine light comes on, it’s often followed by a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). These codes are part of the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic (OBD-II) system, which helps identify issues with the engine, transmission, and emissions systems. Understanding what these codes mean can save you time, money, and stress by providing insight into what might be wrong with your car. When you need computer diagnostics and repairs, contact Presto Auto Electric in Carson City, NV.

How Diagnostic Codes Work

The OBD-II system monitors your vehicle’s performance through a series of sensors. When a sensor detects something out of the ordinary—such as an engine misfire or emissions failure—it triggers the check engine light and records a diagnostic code. Each code corresponds to a specific issue, allowing mechanics (and sometimes even drivers) to pinpoint the problem more easily.

Common Diagnostic Codes

P0420: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold

This indicates a problem with the catalytic converter, which helps control your vehicle’s emissions. A faulty catalytic converter can lead to increased emissions and reduced performance.

P0300: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire

This code signals that your engine is misfiring in more than one cylinder. Causes can range from spark plug issues to fuel delivery problems.

P0171: System Too Lean (Bank 1)

This means there’s too much air and not enough fuel in the engine’s combustion process, which could be due to a vacuum leak or a failing oxygen sensor.

What Should You Do?

When you get a diagnostic code, the best approach is to take it to a mechanic who can interpret the data accurately. While some issues are simple to fix—like a loose gas cap that triggers an emissions warning—others may be more complex and require professional tools to diagnose and repair.

Ignoring a check engine light or diagnostic code can lead to more serious issues down the line. Addressing problems early ensures that your vehicle runs smoothly, reduces the risk of breakdowns, and saves you money on repairs in the long run.

Computer Diagnostics in Carson City

At Presto Auto Electric, we use state-of-the-art computer systems to diagnose and repair all sorts of automotive issues. From check engine light repairs to issues with performance and fuel efficiency, our talented staff will get to the bottom of it using highly accurate automotive computer diagnostics. Contact us at (775) 430-4546 for computer diagnostics in Carson City, NV.