- A Code Tells You Where to Look, Not What's Broken
Check Engine Light Diagnostics in Redmond, WA
An OBD-II code points to a system, not always the failed part. Clearing a code without knowing why it appeared just means the light comes back. Michael's uses factory-level diagnostic software to find the actual cause before recommending any repair.
- Committed to Quality
- Honest, Upfront Pricing
- ASE-Certified Technicians
- Nationwide Warranty on Repairs
- No Upselling, Ever
- Serving Redmond Since 1987
WHY REDMOND TRUSTS US
A code reader can tell you a cylinder is misfiring. It can't tell you if that's a bad spark plug, a failing ignition coil, or a fuel injector issue, and guessing wrong means paying for parts you didn't need. Michael's Auto Repair uses factory-level diagnostic software to trace a code back to its actual cause, so you're fixing the real problem the first time, not replacing parts on a hunch.
38+ Years Serving Redmond
Factory-Level Diagnostic Software
Accurate First-Time Diagnosis
SIGNS YOU NEED A
DIAGNOSTIC SCAN
1.
Your check engine light is on, solid or flashing
2.
Your car is shaking when idle or shaking when accelerating
3.
Rough idling, stalling, or engine misfire symptoms
4.
Reduced fuel efficiency
5.
Hesitation or lack of power when accelerating
6.
Unusual smells from the engine or exhaust
7.
Electrical issues, dashboard warnings, or power accessories acting up
8.
Your vehicle failed or is due for an emissions test
SERVICES INCLUDED IN DIAGNOSTICS
Check Engine Light Diagnostics
Factory-level scanning to identify the exact cause behind your check engine light, engine, fuel, ignition, or emissions related.
Transmission Computer Diagnostics
Diagnostic scanning of your transmission control module to identify shifting issues, sensor faults, or stored trouble codes.
Body Control Module Diagnostics
Diagnosis of your vehicle’s central electronic control unit, responsible for lighting, locks, windows, and other onboard systems
Electrical Draws
Identifying what’s draining your battery when the vehicle is off, tracing the issue to the exact circuit or component.
Second Opinions
Already been quoted a repair elsewhere? We’ll run our own diagnostic and give you an honest read on whether that repair is actually needed.
SOLID VS. FLASHING CHECK ENGINE LIGHT
| Solid Light | Flashing Light | |
|---|---|---|
| Urgency | Get it checked soon | Stop driving, get it checked immediately |
| Common cause | Emissions, sensor, or minor fault | Active engine misfire |
| Risk if ignored | Gradual, may worsen over time | Can damage your catalytic converter quickly |
| What to do | Schedule a diagnostic appointment | Pull over safely and call us |
WHY CHOOSE MICHAEL'S AUTO REPAIR
Factory-Level Diagnostic Tools
We use the same diagnostic software dealerships use, giving us accurate readings across engine, transmission, and body control systems.
We Explain What the Code Actually Means
A code points to a system. We test further to confirm the actual failed component before recommending a repair.
No Parts-Cannon Repairs
We won't replace a string of parts hoping one of them fixes it. We diagnose first, then repair exactly what's wrong.
38 Years of Getting It Right in Redmond
Accurate diagnostics save you money. Our reputation is built on fixing it correctly the first time.
Not Sure What Your Brakes Need?
Call us or drop by. We'll inspect your brakes, document everything with photos, and give you an honest recommendation — no pressure, no upsell, no guesswork.
Computer Diagnostics Work Done Right.
Awesome organization! I'm glad I was referred here!
J Lauletta
Redmond, WA
I called and discussed my car's problem one afternoon with Michael, and he was able to fix it that very day. He is so fast and thorough that I would highly recommend his auto repair shop to everyone!
C Frazzini
Redmond, WA
I came into Michael's Auto needing an oil change badly. They were prompt, efficient and great! Best of all, that is the cleanest garage I have ever seen! Big thanks to Michael and to Wilma.
P Patel
Kenmore, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your first visit — or your next one. Can't find your answer? Give us a call and we'll tell you straight.
Still have a question?
Our team is happy to help. Call us or book a time and we'll walk you through everything.
Is it safe to keep driving with the check engine light on?
If the light is solid, it's usually safe to drive for a short time, but you should get it checked soon. If the light is flashing, stop driving as soon as it's safe and get it inspected immediately, it usually indicates an active misfire that can damage your catalytic converter
Why is my check engine light on but the car seems to be running fine?
This is common. A check engine light can be triggered by issues that don't affect how the car feels to drive, like an emissions sensor or a loose gas cap, or by problems that are developing gradually. Either way, it's worth getting scanned so a minor issue doesn't become a major one.
Can you just tell me the code over the phone?
A code alone doesn't tell us what's actually wrong, it points to a system, not necessarily the failed part. We need to run diagnostics in person to confirm the real cause before recommending any repair.
My check engine light is on but the scanner shows no codes, what does that mean
This usually points to an intermittent issue, something that comes and goes, like a loose connection or a sensor that only misbehaves under certain conditions. It can also mean a pending code hasn't fully triggered yet. We can run a deeper diagnostic to catch what a basic scan might miss
Why is my car shaking when idle or accelerating?
Shaking can point to several causes, a misfire, a vacuum leak, worn engine mounts, or a fuel delivery issue. This is exactly the kind of symptom our diagnostic process is built to isolate, we won't guess, we'll test.
Why did my check engine light come back after I had it fixed elsewhere?
This usually means the underlying cause wasn't fully diagnosed, only the code was cleared or a guessed part was replaced. We run a full diagnostic to confirm the actual issue before recommending a fix
Do you diagnose transmission and electrical issues too?
Yes. We diagnose engine, transmission, and body control module codes, along with electrical draws and accessory issues.
How long does a diagnostic scan take?
A basic scan takes about 30 minutes. More complex issues, like intermittent electrical faults, may take longer to isolate. We'll give you a time estimate upfront.
How much does a diagnostic scan cost?
Diagnostic pricing depends on the complexity of the issue. Call us at (425) 869-2419 for current pricing, and we'll always confirm cost before starting.
Will you tell me if a repair someone else quoted me isn't actually needed?
Yes. We offer second opinions and will run our own diagnostic before agreeing with, or disputing, a previous quote
Don't Just Clear the Code. Fix the Cause
If your check engine light is on, let's find out why. Call, text, or book online.
17443 NE 70th Street, Redmond, WA 98052 · Mon–Thu 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM info@michaelsautorepair.com