Don't ignore that warning light. Our expert mechanics use professional-grade OBD-II scanners to pinpoint exactly what's wrong and get it fixed right.
Call (818) 500-1939That little amber light on your dashboard can mean anything from a loose gas cap to a serious engine problem. The worst thing you can do is ignore it. At A Plus Auto Shop, Armik uses professional-grade OBD-II diagnostic scanners to read the exact trouble codes stored in your vehicle's computer — not the basic code readers you'll find at auto parts stores.
We don't just read the code and guess. We perform a complete diagnosis to find the root cause of the problem. A code like P0420 could mean a failing catalytic converter, a bad oxygen sensor, or an exhaust leak. We trace the issue to the actual failed component so you're not paying to replace parts you don't need.
From minor sensor issues to major engine problems — we diagnose and fix them all at A Plus Auto Shop.
A failing oxygen sensor is one of the most common check engine light triggers. It monitors exhaust gases to help your engine run efficiently. A bad O2 sensor hurts your fuel economy and can damage your catalytic converter over time if not replaced.
Your catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions. When it fails or becomes clogged, you'll see the check engine light and may notice reduced power, poor fuel economy, or a rotten egg smell. We diagnose whether it truly needs replacement or if a simpler upstream issue is the cause.
Misfires can be caused by worn spark plugs, bad ignition coils, fuel injector problems, or vacuum leaks. A flashing check engine light often indicates an active misfire, which needs immediate attention to prevent catalytic converter damage.
The Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) prevents fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. A loose gas cap, cracked hose, or faulty purge valve can trigger the light. We perform smoke tests to find even the smallest EVAP leaks.
The MAF sensor measures how much air enters the engine to calculate the right fuel mixture. A dirty or failing MAF sensor causes rough idling, stalling, poor acceleration, and reduced fuel economy. Sometimes a cleaning is all it needs; other times replacement is necessary.
Worn spark plugs, bad ignition coils, or failing plug wires can all trigger the check engine light. These components are critical for proper combustion. We test each cylinder to identify the exact components that need attention.
Answers to common questions about check engine light diagnosis at A Plus Auto Shop.
The check engine light can come on for many reasons, from a loose gas cap to serious engine problems. Common causes include a faulty oxygen sensor, catalytic converter issues, spark plug or ignition coil failure, mass airflow sensor problems, or an EVAP system leak. The only way to know for sure is to have the codes read with an OBD-II scanner.
A steady check engine light usually means the issue is not immediately dangerous, but you should get it diagnosed soon. However, a flashing check engine light indicates a serious problem like an engine misfire that can damage your catalytic converter. If your light is flashing, reduce speed and get to a mechanic as soon as possible.
At A Plus Auto Shop, we use professional-grade OBD-II diagnostic scanners to read your engine codes and perform a thorough diagnosis. The cost depends on the complexity of the issue. Call us at (818) 500-1939 for current pricing. The repair cost will depend on what the diagnosis reveals.
Sometimes the check engine light will turn off on its own if the issue was temporary, like a loose gas cap. However, if the light stays on, the problem is persistent and needs professional diagnosis. Even if it turns off, the code may still be stored in the computer and could indicate an intermittent problem worth investigating.
A Plus Auto Shop is your full-service auto repair destination in Sun Valley, CA.
A Plus Auto Shop handles check engine light diagnosis at 9011 Sunland Blvd in Sun Valley, CA 91352, minutes from the I-5, the SR-170 and the SR-210. Drivers come to us for check engine light diagnosis from North Hollywood auto repair, the San Fernando Valley auto repair and Shadow Hills, and we regularly serve 91601, 91602, 91605, 91606 and 91609.
Most check engine light diagnosis jobs pair naturally with other work, so ask us about Computer Diagnostics, Drivetrain & Axle Repair, Electrical Repair and Heater Core Repair while your car is on the lift. Bundling related repairs into one visit saves you a second trip across the valley.
We service all makes and models, including Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Scion and Subaru. Whatever you drive, Armik and the team diagnose it with the same equipment a dealership uses, and explain what we find before any work starts. If you want to know what a visit looks like first, our frequently asked questions cover pricing, timing and warranties, and our car care guides walk through the symptoms drivers ask us about most.
Don't wait for a small problem to become a big one. Walk-ins are always welcome — just stop by or give us a call.