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Technician connecting an OBD-II diagnostic scan tool under the dashboard during engine code analysis
Engine diagnostics

Engine diagnostics in Richardson, read right.

Advanced OBD-II computer diagnostics, manufacturer-specific scan tools, and 28 years of pattern recognition.

Diagnostics typically $100–$150

What's included

Everything we cover.

Advanced computer diagnostics to pinpoint check engine lights, performance issues, and electrical problems.

  • Check engine light diagnosis
  • Computer code scanning
  • Performance troubleshooting
  • Sensor testing
  • Emissions diagnostics

When to book

Signs to come in.

Any of these sound familiar? Give us a call, we'll talk through what's likely going on before you make the trip.

  • 01Check engine light is on (solid or flashing)
  • 02Engine misfire, hesitation, or rough idle
  • 03Loss of power, poor fuel economy, hard starts
  • 04Failed Texas state inspection on emissions
  • 05Repeated codes that other shops couldn't pin down

Why bring it here

Not the cheapest. The straightest.

We read codes AND interpret what they mean for your specific vehicle

Manufacturer-specific scan tools, not just generic OBD-II readers

We don't guess, we test. Sensor data, fuel trims, freeze-frame analysis

Diagnostic fee credited toward repair if you have us fix it

Quickly diagnosed and repaired my vehicle for a very reasonable price. They aired my tires up without me asking. That may not be a big deal to some, but it meant a lot to me and demonstrated their concern for details.
Robert M. · 2015 Honda Civic

Common questions

Engine Diagnostics FAQ.

Will free code-reading at a parts store tell me what's wrong?

It tells you a code, not a diagnosis. A P0420 code, for example, can be a catalytic converter, an O2 sensor, an exhaust leak, or a fuel-mixture problem. Real diagnostics rule out the cheap fixes before recommending the expensive ones.

Why does diagnostics cost money?

Real diagnosis takes time, manufacturer-specific tools, and decades of experience. We credit the diagnostic fee toward the repair if you authorize the work, so when we find it, you only pay once.

My check engine light is flashing, should I keep driving?

No. A flashing CEL means an active misfire that can damage the catalytic converter. Pull over, get it towed, and call us at (972) 231-2886.

Can you help if I failed Texas state inspection?

Yes. Emissions diagnostics is one of our specialties. Bring the failure paperwork, we'll diagnose, repair, and re-test.

Front view of The Star Auto Service shop in Richardson, TX
Schedule a service

Let's take a look
at it.

Book online, give us a call, or stop by the shop. Walk-ins are always welcome, and the coffee is on. We'll get you in, get you a straight answer, and get you back on the road.