Does your car have a warning light on the dashboard or have you noticed that your engine is no longer functioning optimally? A professional engine diagnosis at Faay Auto Groep in Nieuwegein quickly and accurately maps out what is wrong with your vehicle. We are a RDW recognized car company With over 25 years of experience in engine diagnostics and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment for all car makes, we can provide you with accurate information generated directly by your car's onboard computer. Scanning your engine is often completed within 15-30 minutes, and one of the advantages is that you know exactly what's wrong in case of any problems, without unnecessary disassembly costs or guesswork.
What is an Engine Diagnosis?
An engine diagnosis, also called engine diagnostics or car diagnostics, is an electronic analysis of your car's engine control system and all its connected components. Modern cars are equipped with a comprehensive computer system (ECU – Engine Control Unit) that continuously monitors hundreds of sensors and components. When something isn't working properly, the onboard computer stores an error code and often illuminates a warning light on the dashboard.
At Faay Auto Groep in Nieuwegein, we use professional diagnostic systems that can communicate with your car's computers. We not only read generic OBD error codes but also have access to brand-specific codes and live data. This means we can see in much greater detail what's happening in your engine, transmission, ABS system, airbags, air conditioning, and all other electronic systems.
An engine diagnosis is essential because modern cars have become so complex that visual inspection is often insufficient. A check engine light can have over 3,000 different causes – from a simple loose gas cap to a serious engine problem. Without professional diagnostic equipment, it's impossible to pinpoint the exact cause. Our diagnosis saves you time and money, and ensures the problem is resolved correctly the first time, instead of replacing parts through trial and error.
Why Engine Diagnosis at Faay Auto Group in Nieuwegein?
At Faay Auto Groep, you're guaranteed reliable and accurate engine diagnostics performed by certified mechanics. Our workshop in Nieuwegein is equipped with the latest diagnostic systems compatible with virtually all European, Japanese, and American car brands – from Volkswagen and BMW to Toyota and Ford. While many garages can only read generic error codes, we have access to brand-specific diagnostic information that is often much more detailed.
Our advantages:
- Brand-specific diagnostic equipment – No general scanners but professional systems for every brand
- Experienced diagnosticians – Our mechanics have more than 25 years of experience and undergo annual training
- RDW recognized car company – Certified and inspected according to strict quality standards
- Transparent communication – You will receive a detailed report with all found error codes and advice
- Fair prices – No hidden costs, only pay for what you really need
- Direct advice – We will immediately tell you how urgent the problem is and what the repair costs will be.
- Fast results – In most cases we have completed the diagnosis within 30 minutes
At Faay Auto Groep, we can not only read error codes but also carry out repairs immediately. So you don't have to go to another garage for repairs. We have a fully equipped workshop with original, high-quality replacement parts in stock.
The Engine Diagnosis Process – Step by Step
When you bring your car to us for an engine diagnosis, you will go through the following process:
- Discuss intake and symptoms – You tell our mechanic what you have noticed (light, strange noise, less power, higher consumption, etc.)
- Visual inspection – We first visually check whether there are obvious causes such as loose cables or leaks.
- Connecting diagnostic system – We connect our professional diagnostic equipment to the OBD port of your car (usually under the dashboard)
- Reading error codes – The system retrieves all stored fault codes and live data from the various computer systems of your car
- Analysis and interpretation – Our experienced technician analyses the error codes in combination with the symptoms and live data
- Functional tests – If necessary, we perform specific tests while the engine is running to confirm the problem
- Reporting and advice – You will receive a clear report explaining the problem, its urgency and a cost estimate for repairs
- Possible repair – If you agree with the quotation, we can immediately start the repair.
The entire diagnostic process takes an average of 30-45 minutes, unless there are very complex issues requiring further investigation. In that case, we will inform you immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions about Engine Diagnosis
Can my car also receive an engine diagnosis?
Yes, almost certainly. We can scan the engine of almost all car makes and models. All cars from 2001 (petrol) and 2004 (diesel) have a standardized OBD-II port. For older cars and for brand-specific diagnostics, we use specialized systems. We work with all common brands such as Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Opel, Peugeot, Renault, Citroën, Ford, Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, and many others. Not sure if we can scan your brand? Please contact us – we're happy to help.
How long does an engine diagnosis take?
In most cases, we can scan your car/engine and analyze the results within 15-30 minutes. However, the exact time depends on several factors, such as the number of error codes, the complexity of the problem, and whether additional functional tests are required. For very complex diagnoses that require us to examine multiple systems or analyze live data during a test drive, it may take longer (45-60 minutes). We will always inform you in advance if we anticipate a longer than usual timeframe.
How much does an engine diagnosis cost at Faay Auto Groep?
The cost of a standard engine diagnosis ranges from €45 to €85, depending on the vehicle type and the depth of the investigation. A quick fault code readout costs €45, while a comprehensive diagnosis with live data analysis and functional tests costs €85. For complex problems requiring extensive investigation, we charge €75 per hour of workshop labor. The good news: if you have us perform the repair, we often don't charge for the diagnosis separately but include it in the repair price. Contact us for an exact quote for your situation.
Why is the engine light on even though my car seems to be driving normally?
An illuminated check engine light (or engine light) doesn't always mean your engine is malfunctioning. The warning system is very sensitive and can activate even with minor deviations. Possible causes include a loose or defective fuel cap, a tired oxygen sensor (O2 sensor), a small air leak in the intake system, or a sensor that measures slightly outside normal parameters. Sometimes the light can also come on after a battery change or software update. Nevertheless, it's important to always have it checked – some problems seem harmless but can lead to serious and expensive damage in the long run. With our engine diagnostics, we know exactly what's wrong within 30 minutes.
Can I postpone an engine diagnosis or does it have to be done immediately?
That depends on the type of warning light and the symptoms. An orange/yellow engine light usually means you can still drive but should have it checked as soon as possible. A red light or flashing light usually indicates a serious problem – in which case, stop driving and seek immediate assistance. Even with an orange light, it's wise not to wait too long: small problems can escalate into major and expensive repairs if you continue driving for too long. For example, a faulty lambda sensor can damage the catalytic converter (repair costs €800-€2000). At Faay Auto Groep, you can often get a diagnosis the same week.
What happens after the engine diagnosis?
After the diagnosis, you'll receive a clear report with the error codes found, an explanation in plain language of the problem, and an advice on the urgency of the repair. We always provide a cost estimate for the repair before we begin – no surprises later. You then decide whether you want the repair done immediately, schedule an appointment for a later date, or think about it first. There's no obligation to have the repair done by us, although most customers choose us because of our experience and fair prices. For minor issues (such as resetting a sensor after a loose cable), we can often resolve them immediately without major costs.
Can an engine diagnosis also be performed preventively?
Absolutely, and it's even wise! Even if there's no warning light on, preventative engine diagnostics can provide valuable insights into your car's condition. We can see if there are any stored error codes that haven't yet triggered a warning light, we can check sensors that are nearing out-of-range readings, and we can assess the overall health of the engine management system. This is especially helpful when buying a used car (pre-purchase inspection) or before long trips. Preventative diagnostics can prevent you from breaking down and can prevent expensive repairs by identifying problems early.
Will the check engine light clear after diagnosis?
We can clear error codes after we've performed a diagnosis and determined the cause. Note: Simply clearing codes without solving the underlying problem is pointless – the warning light will usually return within a few kilometers. Some garages will clear codes for free to temporarily remove the warning light, but that only masks the problem. At Faay Auto Groep, we only clear codes after repairs or if we've determined it was a temporary malfunction. After repairs, we often perform a vehicle inspection or ask you to return after a few days to verify that the problem has been permanently resolved and the error code hasn't returned.
What to Expect: Timeline and Process
When you make an appointment for engine diagnosis at Faay Auto Groep in Nieuwegein, you can expect the following:
When making the appointment: You can schedule an appointment by phone or online. Please briefly describe any symptoms you've noticed. In many cases, we can help you the same day or the next day.
Upon arrival at the workshop: Our service advisor will meet with you and discuss your symptoms in detail. This conversation is important because certain symptoms can already help us determine the diagnosis.
During the diagnosis (15-45 minutes): You can take a seat in our waiting room with free coffee or tea, or you can schedule a pickup appointment. Many customers in Nieuwegein find it convenient to go home or to work and be called when the diagnosis is complete.
After diagnosis: We'll call or visit you with a clear explanation: what the problem is, how urgent it is, what the repair will cost, and how long it will take. You'll always receive a written report with the error codes and findings.
In case of repair: If you choose to have the parts repaired and we have them in stock, we can often get started right away. If parts are not in stock, we'll order them and schedule a new appointment. For major repairs, you can also get a replacement car (upon request).
Prevention: How to Prevent Engine Problems
Although not all engine problems can be prevented, you can significantly reduce the chance of failure by following these tips:
- Regular maintenance: Have your car serviced according to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule. A small turn or big turn Many problems can be prevented if taken in time.
- Check oil level: Check the engine oil level at least once a month. Insufficient oil can lead to serious engine damage.
- Take warning lights seriously: Never ignore a warning light. Have it checked immediately with an engine diagnostic tool.
- Refuel at reliable stations: Bad fuel can damage sensors and injection systems.
- Close the fuel cap properly: A loose gas cap is a common cause of an engine light coming on.
- Do not immediately load the engine hard: Allow the engine to warm up before accelerating hard, especially in winter.
- Avoid short trips: Try to take longer rides regularly so that the engine fully reaches operating temperature.
- Topping up coolant and windshield washer fluid: Check these regularly and top up if necessary.
At Faay Auto Groep we are happy to help you with a service or preventative check. During a service, we can also perform a free quick diagnosis to check for hidden error codes.
Motor Diagnosis Prices
At Faay Auto Groep we offer transparent and competitive prices for engine diagnostics:
- Read basic error code: €45 (max. 15 minutes, error codes only)
- Standard engine diagnosis: €65 (30 minutes, error codes + live data analysis)
- Extensive diagnosis: €85 (45 minutes, including functional tests and reporting)
- Complex diagnosis: €75 per hour (for very complex problems requiring extensive research)
NB: If, after the diagnosis, you decide to have us carry out the repairs, we often include the diagnostic costs in the total repair price. So you don't pay twice!
In addition to engine diagnostics, we also offer other services such as MOT inspection, electrical maintenance, and air conditioning maintenance.
Direct Contact for Engine Diagnosis in Nieuwegein
Are you experiencing a warning light, reduced performance, increased fuel consumption, or other engine problems? Contact Faay Auto Groep in Nieuwegein immediately. We're ready to assist you with professional engine diagnostic equipment and over 25 years of experience. As an RDW-approved garage, we guarantee quality and reliability.
Our benefits at a glance:
- Transparent and fair – no hidden costs
- Professional and experienced – RDW recognized and certified
- Competitive prices – best value for money in Nieuwegein
- Fast results – often helped the same day
- Brand-specific equipment for all car brands
- Clear reporting and advice in understandable language
- Direct repairs possible – everything under one roof
Faay Auto Groep – Your specialist for engine diagnostics and car repairs in Nieuwegein. For more information about our services, such as MOT inspection, small turn or big turn, visit our website or contact us directly.
