Diagnostics

Automotive diagnostics are vital to maintaining your vehicle systems and overall vehicle performance. But trying to figure it all out yourself can get confusing and can lead to mishaps that could affect your vehicle's performance or even damage your vehicle.

That's where Terry's Automotive Group comes in. Our expertise in diagnostic tools and equipment, onboard diagnostic systems, targeted troubleshooting, and comprehensive repair and maintenance ensures that your vehicle is in good hands.

Understanding Automotive Diagnostics

Automotive diagnostics might seem complex, but diagnostics are the cornerstone of modern vehicle maintenance and repair.

The tools that talk to your vehicle's computer and the onboard systems that monitor your vehicle's every move make diagnostics essential to your vehicle's peak performance.

Diagnostic Tools and Equipment

Vehicle diagnostics help to identify the root cause of problems, prevent new problems, and make maintenance and repair tasks more efficient. We can quickly communicate with a vehicle's computer systems by using diagnostic tools and equipment, such as:

• Diagnostic scanners: Advanced tools that connect to your vehicle's computer and read trouble codes. The scanners can also show live data and run special tests. 
• Code readers: Simpler versions of diagnostic scanners that tell you basic problems with your vehicle by reading trouble codes. Some new models even show real-time data.
• Multimeters: Tools that measure the voltage and current in your vehicle's electrical system. Multimeters display graphs and can connect to your smartphone.
• Specialized software: Technology that talks to your vehicle's computer. The latest software can run updates from the cloud and show repair guides for specific vehicles.



These tools help us find and fix your vehicle's problems quickly and accurately. They're part of why modern vehicle repair is so much more efficient and reliable.

Onboard Diagnostics System

The onboard diagnostics system is the vehicle's control center. The version many automotive companies use is the OBD-II system. It monitors everything going on in your vehicle, from how the engine runs to what comes out of the exhaust. The system also runs a self-diagnosis and sends out codes indicating potential problems.

Trouble Code Interpretation

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are the clues that help us find what's wrong with a vehicle. Trying to figure out warning codes on your own can be frustrating, but trouble code interpretation helps us find the problems faster and fix them correctly.

The Scope of System Diagnostics

System diagnostics require looking at the entire vehicle, from the engine to the transmission and brakes and beyond. We can find problems and fix them before they worsen by looking at sensor readings and live data.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

Data analysis and interpretation are vital in finding out what's wrong with a vehicle. We compare the vehicle's data to what's normal to help us fix problems with the vehicle's components.



Repair and Maintenance

Repair and maintenance are the final steps we take after locating the problem. We also ensure everything else is working correctly so your vehicle is safe and reliable.

Advancements in Diagnostics

Diagnosing and repairing vehicle problems is a constantly advancing field. Modern vehicles have complex computer systems and interconnected components, so they require sophisticated diagnostic tools and software.

Advancements in diagnostics have led to new tools and software that can:

• Conduct bidirectional control tests
• Reset vehicle programs
• Program modules



New tools also include features that make them easier to use, such as touchscreens and integration with other systems or smart devices. These innovations are shaping the future of automotive repair, making it more streamlined and effective. 

A professional repair service uses the latest automotive diagnostics equipment, expertise, and experience necessary to ensure your vehicle is safe and running optimally.

Contact Terry's Automotive Group for Reliable Automotive Diagnostics Services

Terry's Automotive Group has been in business since 1976 in the Olympia, WA area. We take your safety seriously and offer reliable diagnostics and efficient repairs at fair prices.

Our staff will always communicate with you about the problems with your vehicle and how we will repair it for safe driving. Contact us at (360) 943-0410, fill out our online request for an appointment, or visit our location at 2203 Harrison Avenue NW, Olympia, WA 98502.