Posted on 2/26/2026
Modern vehicles are essentially computers on wheels. From engine performance to braking, transmission, and emissions, dozens of onboard systems constantly monitor how your car is operating. When something goes wrong, your vehicle’s computer stores diagnostic trouble codes to help identify the issue. This process, known as computer diagnostics, plays a crucial role in modern automotive repair. Because the technology can feel intimidating, many drivers have questions about what computer diagnostics actually involve, when they’re needed, and what the results mean. Below are answers to some of the most common FAQs to help you better understand this essential service. What Are Computer Diagnostics? Computer diagnostics involve connecting specialized equipment to your vehicle’s onboard computer system. This allows technicians to retrieve error codes, monitor live data, and analyze how different systems are performing. These systems track everything from engine timing an ... read more