Posted on 10/29/2025

Why "Free Diagnostics" Can Cost You More When your vehicle's check engine light comes on, the offer of a "free diagnostic" can seem like the perfect solution. It feels like a risk-free way to find out what’s wrong. But as we see often, a quick, free code reading can sometimes lead to expensive and unnecessary repairs. Here at Rocha's Automotive, we believe in a thorough, expert-led diagnostic process. It’s an investment that can save you significant time, money, and stress down the road. Let's look at a real-world example of a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado with a 6.6L Duramax engine that recently came into our shop. This story highlights the difference between a simple code reading and a true diagnostic investigation. The Problem: A Misleading Trouble Code A customer brought their Silverado to us for a second opinion. They had taken it to another shop that offered a free diagnostic check and were told they needed a new, and very expensive, oxi ... read more