Pinpoint the cause of warning lights and performance issues with computerised diagnostics from an experienced Ilford team
A car diagnostic service uses computerised equipment to read fault codes from your vehicle’s onboard computer (the ECU) and identify what’s triggering a warning light or performance issue. At Prime Auto in Ilford, our technicians run a full diagnostic scan, translate the fault codes into a plain-English explanation of what’s actually wrong, and give you a fixed repair quote before any work begins.
If you use named diagnostic equipment (e.g. Snap-on, Bosch, Autel) or cover specific dealer-level brand coverage (BMW, Audi, Mercedes, VAG, Ford), tell me and I’ll name them here — specific brands read as more credible than “multi-brand” alone, but only if accurate.
It means the ECU has detected a fault somewhere in the engine or emissions system — it could be minor or serious. A diagnostic scan reads the specific fault code so we can tell you exactly what’s triggered it, rather than guessing.
It depends on the vehicle and the fault — some issues show up in a quick scan, while intermittent faults can take longer to track down, especially if a road test is needed. We’ll give you a time estimate before we start.
We’ll always explain our diagnostic pricing upfront when you book, including how it applies if you decide to go ahead with a repair — so there’s no surprise on the invoice.
Yes. A pre-MOT diagnostic check can flag issues — like emissions or sensor faults — before your test, giving you the chance to fix them in advance rather than risk a failure.
A quick diagnostic scan today can save a much bigger repair bill down the line.
2–10 Pelham Road, Ilford, IG1