What Is AutoZone's Fix Finder Service And What Issues Does It Look For?

A lot of things can go wrong with the cars we drive. Fortunately, modern vehicles are built with onboard diagnostics (OBD) systems, which monitor various parts of the car and detect errors and malfunctions. When that system finds a problem, it can store a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and activate your car's check engine light. However, the OBD system isn't the only part of your vehicle that can trigger a dashboard warning light. These lights also aren't the only warnings your car can display when something is wrong. From strange sounds and smells to odd behavior and performance problems, our vehicles have various methods for alerting us to a problem.

However, noticing strange behavior or a warning light is only the first step in diagnosing a car problem. You'll still have to figure out what the light means or what's causing the other symptoms. If you're a car pro or a hardcore DIYer, you may be able to diagnose auto issues at home. However, if you're not an automotive expert, you may be accustomed to visiting a repair shop and paying a mechanic for diagnostic work.

Professional diagnostic work isn't always cheap, though, especially when you still have to pay for the actual repair after a mechanic determines what's causing the problem. Fortunately, various auto parts stores provide this service free of charge, including AutoZone. AutoZone's Fix Finder service is designed to help drivers diagnose things like dashboard warning lights and other odd behavior, and it's completely free.

The AutoZone Fix Finder program is designed to help you diagnose mechanical problems and dashboard warning lights without having to pay a professional mechanic for this service. Some of the issues that the Fix Finder program can test for include things like emissions test readiness, engine oil condition and level, battery life, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensor lights and malfunctions, brake pad condition, as well as various warning lights.

If a dashboard warning light, like the check engine light, appears in your car, you can visit your local AutoZone for a test. The expert employees will scan your vehicle's OBD system and provide you with a printout of any stored DTCs, along with some potential fixes. The same applies to the other issues described above. The Fix Finder program provides both printed and digital reports sent to your email. It can help you understand upcoming maintenance, tell you how close you are to needing brake pad replacements, and the AutoZone employees can even help recommend a reputable repair technician in your area if the report indicates that there's a problem.

Not every service provided by the Fix Finder program applies to all vehicles. For example, older cars may not have emissions equipment or tire pressure monitoring systems. However, you can still visit an AutoZone location if you suspect an automotive malfunction, and an employee can take a look at your vehicle to determine if the Fix Finder program can help.

As mentioned above, AutoZone isn't the only auto parts store that provides free diagnostic services. In reality, it's pretty common for chain stores, like AutoZone, to offer these types of benefits. Depending on where you live, you may have access to various stores providing programs similar to AutoZone's Fix Finder service.

Some of the other stores that offer analogous programs include NAPA Auto Parts, Advance Auto Parts, O'Reilly Auto Parts, Pep Boys, and Firestone Complete Auto Care. The extent of the services offered at these locations may differ. However, most of them offer, at the bare minimum, free OBD system scans, allowing you to diagnose check engine lights. Some of them go even further to offer services like windshield wiper replacements, alignment checks, battery scans, and more, all free of charge.

If your car begins to display abnormal behavior or a dashboard warning light appears, you should never ignore it. It's understandable that you may not want to pay high hourly labor rates for a professional to perform the diagnostic work. However, thanks to these auto parts stores, you don't have to ignore your vehicle's cries for help. At the very least, visit one of these places to figure out what's causing your car's problem, and then you can make a decision about when and how to repair the issue.