Can Advance Auto Parts Check and Fix Your Engine Light in 2024?

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

When the dreaded check engine light turns on, most drivers feel a wave of anxiety wondering just what could be failing under the hood. Fortunately, Advance Auto Parts offers free diagnostics to provide insight into the issue. However, the level of service is limited compared to a professional mechanic shop.

What Triggers the Check Engine Light Exactly?

The check engine light, also known as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), activates when your vehicle‘s on-board diagnostics (OBD-II) system detects a problem with the engine, transmission, emissions system, or related components. As EngineRepairHub reports, the most common check engine light causes are:

  • Oxygen sensor failure (~20% of cases)
  • Ignition system issues (faulty spark plugs, wires)
  • Evaporative emissions leaks (~15% originating from loose fuel cap)
  • Mass airflow sensor failure (~10% of causes)
  • Catalytic converter issues

These account for over 75% of check engine light occurrences. Other triggers can range from minor to major mechanical issues.

Check Engine vs. Service Engine Soon Light

The service engine soon and check engine light often mean the same thing, but the "service engine soon" light is intended to give drivers an early warning of a minor issue before it triggers the check engine light. This early notification gives you a chance to diagnose and fix the problem before it worsens. Pay attention to this warning sign!

Can Advance Auto Parts Technicians Read and Clear Codes?

Yes, Advance Auto Parts advertises free check engine light code scanning as part of their consumer offerings. Using an OBD-II diagnostic scan tool, technicians can plug into your vehicle‘s data link connector port to read any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that are triggering the check engine light to illuminate.

The scanning process only takes 1-2 minutes. They also offer to clear any codes that appear, which will temporarily switch the check engine light off. However, if the underlying condition causing the code is not addressed, the light will simply turn back on again after more driving.

Capabilities and Limitations of Advance Auto Parts Diagnostics

While reading basic DTCs codes is within their scope of practice, Advance Auto Parts‘ diagnostic capabilities are much more limited compared to a professional mechanic:

Advance Auto Parts Technician Abilities

  • Read and clear check engine light codes
  • Provide code definitions
  • Suggest potential parts that commonly fail related to set codes
  • Clear codes to turn check engine light off temporarily
  • Offer basic troubleshooting tips

Areas Beyond Their Technical Expertise

  • Diagnosing complex mechanical issues
  • Pinpointing exact failed part without extensive disassembly
  • Determining root causes when one code can have multiple underlying conditions
  • Identifying secondary damage from primary component failures
  • Performing advanced computer reprogramming

So while the free code scanning offers some basic insights into issues, it is not a comprehensive vehicle diagnosis.

Should You Seek Professional Diagnostic Assistance?

In many cases, the Advance Auto Parts technician will advise visiting a professional mechanic for complete diagnostics and next steps after scanning codes. This is wise to seek an expert if:

  • Multiple codes or pending codes appear (indicating extensive issues)
  • The codes shown point to major engine or transmission problems
  • The check engine light returns soon after being reset
  • You need thorough testing to identify the root cause

Without determining the full extent of the issues, simply replacing O2 sensors or other parts is just guessing and can prove costly if it does not resolve the root problems. Professional diagnosis is crucial.

Professional Diagnosis vs. Trial-and-Error Parts Replacement

Advance Auto Parts may try to sell you related auto parts to replace based on scan codes. However, without advanced system testing, this trial-and-error approach often fails to permanently fix the issue right away. You can easily spend $450+ on new sensors only to find it did not work. Let a qualified mechanic perform true diagnostics before replacing anything!

Can You Get a Vehicle Inspection?

Unfortunately, outside of check engine light scans, Advance Auto Parts does not offer general vehicle inspections or diagnostics to assess overall vehicle health. For a bumper-to-bumper preventative inspection, visit a full-service repair shop.

The Bottom Line – Use Advance Auto Parts for Basic Code Insights

While Advance Auto Parts technicians can provide free check engine light code scans, their diagnostic capabilities are limited. The scanning can offer helpful clues into potential issues. However, for comprehensive diagnostics and repair recommendations for complex mechanical problems, you need to enlist professional assistance. This helps prevent wasting money on parts replacement that fails to fix the real issue.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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