Ram’s Role in Diagnostic Testing for Maintenance

Unlike maintenance tasks like fluid checks or tire rotations, diagnostic testing isn’t a regular part of maintenance. It’s a highly specialized tool that speeds up diagnosis, allowing repairs to be performed faster. As your RAM dealer, we want to tell you more about how testing works, when you may need it, and some of the issues it can identify.

From Your RAM Dealer: The Role of Diagnostic Testing in Maintenance

Your RAM Computer

Your RAM has a computer that automates many processes to make driving safer and more efficient and give you more time to enjoy the experience. A multitude of sensors connect to the computer, and each sensor is attached to an important component. These sensors carry out orders from the computer, provide information to it, and report on the health and condition of their connected component.

If a sensor detects a problem with its connected component, it informs the computer. The computer logs this information and illuminates the relevant warning light on your dash. Sometimes, the warning light points to a specific system, for example, an illuminated tire pressure monitoring system light means something is with your tire pressure. Other times, the specific issue is more obscure, like an illuminated check engine light.

How Testing Works

Testing is used to identify the reason behind a warning light. Our technicians will connect a portable scanner, called an OBD II, to your RAM’s computer port. This device scans the computer for error codes and lists any it finds. We then compare these codes to the list of possible RAM error codes to identify the affected system so we can fix it.

Before vehicle computers and sensors, mechanics could spend countless hours checking and testing components and systems. While testing doesn’t always identify the exact issue, it’s invaluable in directing our technicians to the correct system. This saves time, which also means cheaper and faster repairs. Let’s take at some of the issues it can identify.

Electrical Problems

Electrical system problems, like a worn alternator, a failing battery, or electrical shorts, can all affect vehicle performance. These issues will grow worse over time and could result in a dead battery. They can also falsely be identified as issues due to malfunctioning sensors.

Exhaust Problems

A blocked catalytic converter can force engine gases back into the engine. The gases increase pressure in the engine and can cause it to shut down. Holes in the exhaust pipe can cause toxic gases to enter your cabin or reduce engine power.

Engine Problems

Worn ignition coils, damaged spark plugs, and blocked fuel injectors are just a few of the issues that can be identified by testing.

Testing can also be performed to give you peace of mind that your engine is in great shape. Contact us at Acadiana DCJRF in Lafayette, LA, to book your test today.

Posted in Acadiana Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Fiat Service | No Comments »