Engine Diagnostics and Repair Services in New Jersey

When your check engine light turns on or your car feels off, trust the professionals at American Tire & Auto Care. Our advanced engine diagnostic services can pinpoint issues early so you can avoid costly breakdowns. From minor repairs to full engine replacements, our ASE-certified technicians provide honest, high-quality service across New Jersey. We’re here to help you get back on the road safely and confidently.

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Ensure your vehicle’s tires are in peak condition with professional tire service and repair from American Tire and Auto Care. Whether you need tire rotation, tire alignment, or tire balancing service, our expert team is ready to help.

When to Get an Engine Diagnostic

Your vehicle’s engine is a complex system with many interconnected components. When something starts to fail, it often triggers your check engine light or results in performance issues. Running an engine diagnostic scan helps identify problems early, before they become serious. If you’ve noticed anything unusual while driving, it’s time to get your vehicle checked by a professional.

Common Check Engine Light Causes

Common Check Engine Light Causes

The check engine light can indicate a wide range of issues, from simple fixes to critical problems. A diagnostic scan helps pinpoint the source so you can take appropriate action.

  • Loose or missing gas cap
  • Faulty oxygen sensors or mass airflow sensors
  • Worn spark plugs or ignition coils
  • Emissions or catalytic converter issues
Symptoms of Engine Trouble You Shouldn’t Ignore

Symptoms of Engine Trouble You Shouldn’t Ignore

Some signs of engine trouble are easy to miss at first but can worsen quickly if not addressed. Listening to your vehicle and noticing changes in how it drives is key.

  • Unusual knocking, ticking, or hissing noises
  • Reduced acceleration or sluggish engine response
  • Poor fuel economy or stalling
  • Exhaust smoke or strange smells
  • Flashing Check Engine Light
How Diagnostic Scans Help Identify Issues

How Diagnostic Scans Help Identify Issues

Modern vehicles are equipped with onboard diagnostics systems (OBD-II) that store error codes. These codes help our technicians zero in on the issue during an engine diagnostic test. It’s a complex, non-invasive way to understand what your engine needs.

  • Retrieves specific fault codes from your vehicle’s computer
  • Pinpoints electrical circuit or mechanical faults in the engine
  • Reduces guesswork and speeds up repairs

Our Engine Repair Services

At American Tire & Auto Care, we offer a full range of engine repair services to keep your vehicle running strong. Whether your car needs a basic tune-up or a complete engine replacement, our expert technicians have the skills and equipment to get the job done right. We’re committed to quality work, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer service.

Minor Engine Repairs vs. Full Overhauls

Minor Engine Repairs vs. Full Overhauls

Not all engine problems require a complete replacement. Many issues can be resolved with targeted repairs that restore your engine’s performance and reliability. For more severe internal damage, a full replacement may be necessary.

  • Minor repairs: sensors, spark plugs, belts, gaskets
  • Major repairs: cylinder heads, pistons, timing chains
  • We help you compare repair vs. replacement costs and benefits
Fuel System Cleaning and Tune-Ups

Fuel System Cleaning and Tune-Ups

Your engine needs clean fuel and air to perform at its best. Over time, deposits and buildup can clog injectors and reduce efficiency. A fuel system cleaning paired with a comprehensive tune-up can make your engine feel brand new.

  • Removes carbon buildup from fuel injectors and intake valves
  • Replaces spark plugs and checks ignition timing
  • Improves throttle response and fuel economy
Fixing Misfires and Performance Issues

Fixing Misfires and Performance Issues

Engine misfires can cause poor performance, rough idling, and even long-term engine damage. Our team diagnoses the root cause to figure out whether it’s electrical, fuel-related, or mechanical, and then fixes it accurately.

  • Diagnoses faulty coils, spark plugs, or fuel delivery issues
  • Repairs vacuum leaks or timing problems
  • Restores smooth and reliable engine function

Frequently Asked Questions

Some auto shops offer free basic code scans, but comprehensive diagnostics may require a fee. Contact your nearest American Tire & Auto Care location for details.
It can signal various issues, from a loose gas cap to more serious engine problems. A diagnostic test is necessary to determine the exact cause.
Typically, it takes about an hour or two, but it can vary depending on the complexity of the issue and the number of systems being checked.
Symptoms include unusual noises, decreased performance, poor fuel efficiency, stalling, or visible smoke from the exhaust.
Yes, we provide full engine tune-ups including spark plug replacement, fuel system cleaning, and performance checks to keep your engine running strong.

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From rotations and alignments to new tires, we’ve got you covered. Visit one of our locations or contact us today to schedule an appointment.