Stalled But Not Broken – What To Do When There's "No Problem Found"
Your car is stalling and causing you repeated problems resulting in expensive tow bills, missed appointments, and being late for work. The dilemma is that whenever you take your car in, the repair shop insists there is no problem. During the course of these events, you’ve undoubtedly heard the terms "no error code," "cannot duplicate," "no problem found," or "no troubles found."
Today, mechanics and manufacturers rely primarily on computers and electronic devices to diagnose your vehicle's problem. The term "error code" refers to a code produced by the onboard diagnostics (OBD) that have been an integral part of most cars manufactured after 1996.
The codes are derived from the dozens of sensors that every car has for measuring everything from tire speed to the voltage of the electrical system. Each code has a unique letter and four numbers that correspond to a specific fault. According to Inside OBD II, CNet's Quick Guide to Reading OBD II Codes, the letter can be a B (body), C (chassis), U (network), or P (power train). Practically speaking, you will primarily have to deal with codes with a P prefix, but the proliferation of electronics means that other codes may come up as well.
One thing to keep in mind is that intermittent problems like stalling or the
check engine light activating, erratic vibrations or braking behavior can't always
be easily diagnosed by a machine. Nevertheless, a problem is a problem despite
the fact that a dealer or a manufacturer may try to convince you otherwise.
Your Word Against Theirs
The main thing to remember in this type of situation is to:
- Document everything (check out the downloadable Vehicle Repair Record available on this site)
- Bring your documentation or list of issues or complaints that you have and ensure that both you and the dealer have a copy. Also, make sure you don’t leave your vehicle repair documents/forms in your vehicle.
- Be persistent but patient
- Keep calm
Bringing your malfunctioning vehicle in for service only to hear that there no problem is an entirely frustrating experience. Sometimes, the only way you can prove that there is a problem is by correctly recording the problem as soon as it occurs. While you may still run into resistance or reluctance to accept the problem from the repair shop, clear, accurate records will go a long way in proving your point. If you can, try to recruit a witness who can back your claim--someone who was in the car with you or someone who witnessed the malfunction.
In addition:
- Save all your receipts
- Keep track of your repair history
- Make sure you also keep track of any documented problems made by previous mechanics
A good technician doesn't always need an electronic device to diagnose an intermittent stall or annoying rumble. Years of experience and knowledge about automotive engines are often better than an electronic device that might even misinterpret your car's problem and suggest unnecessary repairs.
Regarding this point, you should find a dealer who:
1. Does not automatically assume an expensive repair job is essential
2. Actually listens to what you have to say
3. Offers you clear and concise information regarding the repair of your vehicle. If you’re looking at an expensive repair, you should know why it is necessary and what the consequences will be of not making the recommended repair.
In situations involving vehicle repairs, it is important to keep your cool. Although it's easy to give into your frustration and become irate, that type of behavior will only make things worse and escalate feelings of frustration for everyone.
If you must resort to legal action, then all the information you have clearly documented will be of substantial benefit to your case. Ultimately, you are the key in getting your vehicle problem solved--not the dealer or mechanic. As a consumer, you are afforded certain rights and privileges, and when you have a consumer issue that requires attention, those rights should never be denied.
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