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Check Engine Light Scan & Diagnosis in Hillsboro, OR

A real diagnosis - full scan, live data, and root-cause analysis, not just a code read.

Diesel Specialists · Gas & Diesel · 1-Yr/12,000-Mi Warranty · Family-Owned Since 2012 · No Upsells
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with the check engine light on?

Depends on whether it’s solid or flashing. Solid light: drive carefully and get it diagnosed within a few days. Flashing light: stop driving as soon as safe. A flashing CEL indicates an active misfire that can destroy your catalytic converter in a short drive.

Can I just clear the code and see if it comes back?

You can, but clearing a code without fixing the cause only delays the diagnosis. The code will return, usually after a full drive cycle. It also resets all OBD readiness monitors — meaning your vehicle will fail Oregon DEQ with a ‘not ready’ result if tested soon after clearing.

My truck has a P0420 code. Does that mean I need a new catalytic converter?

Not necessarily. P0420 indicates the cat’s efficiency is below threshold — but the cause is often upstream. An exhaust leak near the front O2 sensor, a lazy downstream O2 sensor, burning oil, or coolant intrusion from a head gasket can all trigger P0420. We test before recommending a converter.

Why does my diesel truck need a different scan tool than my gas vehicle?

Diesel trucks store manufacturer-specific codes in separate modules that generic OBD readers often can’t access. DPF soot load, EGR flow data, injector balance rates, and DEF system efficiency require an enhanced or OE-level scanner to read accurately. A basic code reader on a diesel often gives you a partial or misleading picture.

My check engine light came on right after an oil change. What happened?

The most common causes: oil cap not tightened (EVAP/pressure code), oil overfilled (can cause misfires or oil consumption codes), or an oil pressure sensor disturbed during service. Bring it back and we’ll check it — no charge for the diagnostic scan on work we just performed.

Do you service all makes and models?

Yes — gas and diesel, trucks and daily drivers. Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland metro.

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