Car Repair FAQ

Astro Tune-Up Center is happy to offer our advice and guidance on the best solution for your vehicles. Car repairs can sometimes be more costly than they need to be, and we want to help you avoid unnecessary work. That's why we've created our own frequently asked questions page. Scroll through to see if we can answer the question at hand—you might learn something that saves you the time and expense of bringing in your car!

If you don't find the answer here, feel free to give us a call at 316.263.9021. We're happy to help!

Q. Why is my check engine light on?

A. If you see this light it means the vehicle's onboard computer has detected a problem with one of the systems it controls. It could be related to the engine, transmission, anti-lock brake system, or the evaporative emissions system. If the light is flashing this indicates a misfire condition, and damage to the catalytic converter could result if driven too long under this condition. When this light comes on, it is best to have it diagnosed as soon as possible.

Q. Can you hook my car up to a machine and tell me everything that is wrong with it?

A. Unfortunately, there is no one machine that we can use uncover every problem with a vehicle. We utilize a wide variety of test equipment to diagnose issues, such as scan tools, lab scopes, voltmeters, pressure testers and of course our knowledge and experience. Having a vehicle "scanned" does not guarantee a fix right away, as the data retrieved from the computer is most often a starting point.

Q. My father / brother / cousin / uncle is a mechanic and he told me what was wrong with my car. Why shouldn't I just listen to him?

A. This situation often results in money being spent needlessly. Many times people will "throw parts at a car" until it is either fixed or they are fed up. We use our knowledge and equipment to pinpoint the problem, and do not guess as to what may be wrong.

Q. What is a tune-up?

A. Tune-up is an outdated term, which refers to replacing commonly, grouped maintenance items on an engine such as spark plugs, ignition wires, distributor cap, rotor, etc. With most late model engines having computer controlled ignition systems, all of these parts except for spark plugs are no longer found on today's vehicles. Our tune up now, consists of replacing the spark plugs, cleaning the throttle body, and performing a scheduled maintenance inspection based on the factory recommended specs for the mileage of the vehicle.

Q. Why do you charge for testing?

A. We sell skilled labor based on time, and it doesn't matter if a technician is bolting on an alternator, or scan testing the computer, he is still spending billable time on your vehicle. Many shops will waive the testing charge, if you pay for the repair, then mark up the repair cost to offset it. We do not believe this is an ethical way to conduct business. We believe in being up front and honest about the charges you will incur for a repair. We do not over inflate repair costs to recoup testing fees.

Q. But Auto Zone scanned my car for free and said I need an oxygen sensor. Why shouldn't I listen to them?

A. Auto Zone uses an inexpensive code reader to read trouble codes. We spend thousands of dollars each year to purchase and update our diagnostic equipment which has much greater capability. Our technicians have attended hundreds of hours of training classes, and have years of hands on experience. Auto Zone employees are great at selling parts, but they simply do not have training or the equipment to correctly troubleshoot a problem with your vehicle.

Q. Can I wait for my car to be repaired?

A. We do have a comfortable waiting area for our customers to enjoy. However, for lengthy repairs and in depth troubleshooting, we recommend arranging for transportation, as we cannot guarantee a completion time. We can help arrange a taxi for you at your expense, or if you need a rental car, we do have a discount program through a local rental car agency.

Q. May I bring my own parts in?

A. We prefer to install only parts we sell to ensure that they will fit and perform as good or better than original equipment. This allows us to maintain our high level of quality, and be able to guarantee our work.