Diagnostics and coding
Fault finding for
VAG & BMW systems
Warning lights, electrical faults and coding, worked through with dealer-level diagnostic equipment and a technician who knows these cars.
The makes
we know best
- Audi
- Volkswagen
- SEAT
- Škoda
- Cupra
- BMW
Find the fault, then fix it
Read the car
before the repair
Modern Audi, VW, SEAT, Škoda, Cupra and BMW cars run on connected electronic systems. When something goes wrong, the quickest route to the right repair is to read those systems properly.
We read and clear fault codes, look at live data, test components and check the ECU, then explain what we've found in plain English. We also carry out coding.
- Dealer-level equipmentDiagnostic equipment for VAG and BMW cars.
- Plain EnglishWhat we found, what it means, what it will take.
- Repaired hereMechanical repairs and Audi DRC work in the same workshop.
Warning light and symptom explorer
What are you
seeing?
Pick the closest match for guidance on the next step. This doesn't read your car or diagnose a fault: only a proper check can do that.
01Your concern
02Car and symptoms (optional)
Engine warning light
Note whether the light is steady or flashing, and whether the car feels any different. A steady light still needs checking. We'll read the codes and live data to find the cause.
If the light is flashing, or the car loses power, overheats or runs roughly, stop when it's safe and get advice before driving on. Your handbook explains each warning light.
Electrical fault
Things not working, flat batteries or warning messages. We'll test the circuits and components involved to find where the fault is.
Unexpected behaviour
The car feels, sounds or responds differently. Tell us when it happens: cold or warm, at speed, under load. That helps us look in the right place.
If braking or steering feels wrong, don't drive the car. Call us on 0115 850 1431 or your breakdown provider.
Intermittent fault
Faults that come and go are the hardest to pin down. Note when it happens and anything that seems to trigger it. Stored codes and live data often show what you can't see on the day.
Coding or electronic function
Tell us the car and what you'd like coded or changed. We'll tell you what's possible on your car before we start.
Not sure
Describe what you've noticed and when. A diagnostic check is a sensible first step when the cause isn't obvious.
What a check covers
Four steps,
narrowing it down
Each step narrows the fault down, so the repair is aimed at the cause rather than a guess.
- Step 01
Fault codes
Stored codes read and cleared across the car's systems.
- Step 02
Live data
Sensor readings watched while the car runs, to see what's really happening.
- Step 03
Component tests
Individual parts tested, so good parts aren't replaced by guesswork.
- Step 04
ECU and coding
Control units checked, and coding carried out where it's needed.
Illustrative photos
After the check
A clear answer,
then the repair
Once we know the cause, we explain it and what it will take to put right. If it's a mechanical repair, we can carry it out here. If it's an Audi DRC fault, that's a specialist job we do too.
- The fault explained in plain English
- The repair agreed with you before it starts
- Codes cleared once the fault is fixed
Diagnostic
questions
Not covered here? Call 0115 850 1431 or ask in the enquiry below.
Can't a code reader tell me the fault?
A fault code points to where the problem was noticed, not always to the part that's failed. Live data and component tests show whether the part, the wiring or something else is the cause.
Is it safe to drive with a warning light on?
We can't say without seeing the car. Your handbook explains each light. A red warning, or a flashing engine light, usually means stop when it's safe and get advice.
Which cars can you diagnose?
Our diagnostic equipment and experience are focused on Audi, Volkswagen, SEAT, Škoda, Cupra and BMW.
Book a diagnostic check.
Describe the warning light or fault. We'll get back to you about a time to look at the car.
What happens next
- 1We get back to youAbout a time to look at the car.
- 2We run the checkCodes, live data and component tests, as the fault needs.
- 3We explain the findingsAnd agree any repair with you before it starts.
Send us your enquiry
About a minute. Every field is needed unless it says optional.