Diagnostic Testing for Porsche: A Crucial Maintenance Step
Diagnostic testing is an invaluable tool in identifying issues so they can be repaired. As your Porsche Service Center, we want to tell you how it works to make repairs faster.
From Your Porsche Center: How Diagnostic Testing Works
Your Porsche Computer
Your Porsche has a computer that automates numerous systems and processes to optimize vehicle performance. Basically, it can adjust issues like engine timing and fuel-to-air ratio that originally required a visit to a mechanic. The computer relies on a huge network of sensors connected to almost every system to provide information, which it uses to make decisions.
Sensors continually relay information on the status of their connected components and monitor them for signs of trouble. If an issue is identified, and sensors can detect the tiniest change in their component’s performance, a message is sent directly to your computer. The computer logs this issue with an error code and activates the relevant warning light on your dash to signal something is wrong.
Performing a Test
If you have an illuminated warning light, testing isn’t always necessary. A tire pressure warning light, for example, means something is wrong with your tire pressure, and we’ll correct it. Most testing is used because the engine light has lit up. This light signals something is wrong with your engine that’s affecting performance, but it doesn’t provide any other information.
Our technicians connect your Porsche computer to a diagnostic scanner. This mini-computer reads and displays any error codes logged by the computer. We compare these error codes to the list of potential error codes, enabling our technicians to hone in on the problem. It’s similar to how your home computer may display an error code, which then needs to be checked to fix it.
Benefits of Testing
Testing provides many benefits, and most of these are passed on to you. Let’s look at some of them.
Time-Saving
Before the 1980s, car computers didn’t exist. If something went wrong, a mechanic would usually have to check many different systems to find the cause of certain problems. This took time, and that meant often days without your vehicle. Testing removes all those rabbit holes mechanics had to dive into, as we can quickly trace the source of the issue from its error code.
Cost-Saving
Repairs were relatively more expensive, as mechanics charged for the time used in trying to find the problem cause. Nowadays, our technicians can focus on the issue affecting your vehicle. All our technicians are Porsche-trained experts and can swiftly repair any identified issue, and this reduces your repair bill.
If you’d like to know more about testing or to book a test, contact us today at Porsche Stevens Creek in Santa Clara, CA.