Worthing | Sompting | West Sussex
Vehicle Fault Finding: What to Expect
Warning light on, a strange noise, or a fault you can't pin down? Our vehicle fault finding at Worthing and Sompting tracks down the real cause. Here's exactly what to expect, from the moment you book to the moment you get your keys back.
More Than a Code Reader
Vehicle Fault Finding, Done Properly
A fault code tells us where to start looking, not always what's wrong. That's why our car fault finding goes further than a quick scan. Our technicians combine dealer-level diagnostic equipment with hands-on testing to track down the real cause of the problem, so you only fix what actually needs fixing.
When Should You Book Fault Finding?
If you notice any of the following, it's worth booking your car in for fault finding as soon as possible.
Engine management or another warning light has come on
Car feels down on power or has gone into limp mode
Unusual noises, smells or vibrations
Electrical faults or features that have stopped working
Car is hard to start, stalls or cuts out
What to Expect at Your Fault Finding Appointment
Every car and every fault is different, but our fault finding process follows the same four steps. You'll be kept informed throughout, and nothing goes ahead without your say-so.
Step 1
Book In and Tell Us the Symptoms
When you book, we'll ask what you've noticed: any warning lights, noises or changes in how the car drives, and when it happens. The more detail you give us, the quicker we can get to the root of the problem. Drop your car off, use our collection and delivery service, or leave your keys in our out-of-hours drop-off.
Step 2
Initial Assessment
Our technicians read the fault codes and live data using dealer-level diagnostic equipment, check for known issues and software updates, and road test the car where needed to recreate the fault. Many faults are pinned down at this stage.
Step 3
In-Depth Testing (If Needed)
If the cause isn't clear from the initial assessment, we go further with oscilloscope and wiring tests, smoke and leak testing, and component checks. Intermittent faults can take longer to track down, so we'll always speak to you before carrying out any further testing.
Step 4
Your Results and Next Steps
Once we've found the cause, we'll explain what's wrong in plain English, what needs doing and how urgent it is, along with a quote for the repair. Nothing goes ahead until you're happy, and the repairs we carry out come with a 12-month guarantee.
Got a warning light or a fault you can't pin down?
Book vehicle fault finding at our Worthing or Sompting garage today.
Collection & Delivery
We can collect your vehicle and deliver it back to you.
Hire Cars Available
Stay on the road with our hire cars.
Clear Answers, No Surprises
We explain what we find in plain English and agree any work with you first.
Case Studies
Faults We've Found and Fixed
Frequently Asked Questions
Vehicle Fault Finding FAQs
What's the difference between fault finding and diagnostics?
They're the same thing. Fault finding, often called car diagnostics, is the process of tracking down what's causing a problem with your vehicle. It combines diagnostic equipment with hands-on testing and a technician's experience to find the real cause, not just the symptom.
Can't you just read the fault code?
A code reader shows where a fault has been logged, but not always why. A sensor fault code, for example, could be caused by the sensor itself, the wiring to it, or a problem elsewhere giving it a false reading. Our fault finding tests the system properly so you only fix what's actually wrong.
How long does fault finding take?
Many faults are found during the initial assessment. Intermittent faults, or ones that only show up in certain conditions, can take longer to track down. We'll keep you updated throughout, and hire cars are available if your car needs to stay with us.
How much does fault finding cost?
It depends on the fault. We start with an initial assessment, and if more in-depth testing is needed we'll talk you through it and agree it with you before we go any further, so there are no surprises.
Is it safe to drive with a warning light on?
It depends on the light. A red warning light or a flashing engine management light means you should stop as soon as it's safe and get in touch with us. An amber light is usually less urgent but still worth getting checked soon, as small faults can develop into bigger problems if left.
Will clearing the warning light fix the problem?
Clearing a fault code turns the light off, but it doesn't fix the cause. If the fault is still there, the light will usually come back. We find and fix the underlying problem so it stays off.
Do you carry out fault finding on all makes and models?
We carry out vehicle fault finding on most makes and models at our Worthing and Sompting garages, using manufacturer-level diagnostic software for brands including Audi, BMW, Citroen, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Peugeot, Porsche, Vauxhall and Volkswagen.
