Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first thing to check when the check engine light comes on?

• Verify the gas cap is tight and undamaged—an unsecured cap is the simplest, most common cause.
• Check oil and coolant levels and look for obvious leaks or smoke before driving further.
• Note recent fuel stops or maintenance that might trigger a sensor alert.
• A quick OBD-II scan reveals stored codes; don’t rely on guessing or repeated resets.
• For warranty protection and accurate diagnosis, have Nalley Acura inspect the vehicle—warranty repairs must be done at a certified dealership.
• Choosing our dealership often costs less than independent shops over time thanks to precise diagnostics, fewer return visits, and OEM parts.

How long does a check engine light service take?

• Diagnostic scan typically takes 30–90 minutes depending on queue and symptoms.
• Minor fixes—tighten gas cap, replace a sensor, or clear a code—are often completed the same day.
• Complex repairs (misfires, catalytic converter replacement, transmission issues) can require 1–3 days or longer for parts and deeper inspection.
• We offer quick turnarounds with factory tools and trained technicians to reduce downtime.
• Warranty-covered work must be completed at a certified dealership; using Nalley Acura protects warranty benefits and often yields immediate and long-term savings.

How much does a check engine light diagnostic cost for a 2013 Acura TL?

• Typical dealer diagnostic fees range by location and complexity; expect approximately $99–$149 for a standard scan and inspection.
• If repairs are performed at Nalley Acura, diagnostic fees are often applied toward the final repair cost—reducing your immediate out-of-pocket expense.
• Diagnostics required for warranty claims are handled at no extra cost when covered; remember warranty repairs must be done at a certified dealer.
• Choosing our dealership often costs less than independent shops overall due to accurate diagnostics, OEM parts, and fewer return visits.
• We’ll provide a clear estimate before any work so you can weigh immediate savings against long-term protection.

What does it mean when the check engine light comes on in a 2013 Acura TL?

• The light indicates a detected fault in the emissions, engine, or powertrain systems; severity ranges from minor to urgent.
• Causes include loose gas cap, faulty sensors (O2, MAF), misfires, EVAP leaks, or catalytic converter issues.
• Some codes allow safe driving to the shop; others (flashing light) require immediate attention—avoid guessing and run a scan.
• Nalley Acura uses factory diagnostic tools to identify root causes, preventing needless part replacement and protecting vehicle value.
• Warranty-covered diagnoses and repairs must be done at a certified dealership to preserve coverage and long-term savings.

What is the most common reason for check engine light on a 2013 Acura TL?

• A loose or damaged gas cap is the most frequent and least costly cause—simple to fix but it should be ruled out first.
• Other common causes include oxygen sensor failure, ignition coil or spark plug issues, EVAP system leaks, and aging catalytic converters.
• Ignoring early warnings can escalate repair costs significantly; for example, misfires left unchecked often lead to catalytic converter failure.
• Bring your 2013 Acura TL to Nalley Acura for accurate diagnosis—our OEM approach often saves money versus independent shops by avoiding unnecessary repairs and preserving warranty coverage.