Work out what check-engine codes mean and what to test, with ChatGPT

Posted

Sep 16, 2023 by Robert Dolen (SlashGear), on Watch Wes Work

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Last checked

Oct 16, 2026

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Method:

How we verify

Evidence: Shown on videoThe source includes a video or screen recording of the agent doing the task.

Outcome

SlashGear describes YouTuber Watch Wes Work asking ChatGPT about three codes (P0171, P0420, P1101) on a 2015 Chevrolet Trax. ChatGPT suggested checking for exhaust leaks, then inspecting the mass airflow sensor and air intake, and gave theoretically accurate test methods, but its normal airflow reading was vague. The YouTuber found vacuum leaks in a PCV hose and the valve cover and, asked whether ChatGPT diagnosed the issue, said it's a matter of perspective, but ultimately it did not; SlashGear says it lacked hands-on context for this model.

Agent

ChatGPT

The source didn't share its exact prompt, so we wrote this from what it describes.

Before you start, ask me 1–3 short questions about anything important that's missing below. Keep them quick. Then do the task, checking in with me at the key points.

Goal: Understand what my car's fault codes likely mean together and get an ordered list of cheap checks to try before paying for parts.

What I can give you (ask for whatever's missing):
- Year, make, model, engine and mileage
- The exact codes from an OBD2 scan (and freeze-frame data if I have it)
- Symptoms: rough idle, smells, noises, when it happens
- Recent repairs or parts already bought

Safety first: anything touching brakes, steering, airbags, fuel lines or lifting the car is a job for a qualified mechanic unless I confirm I have the tools and experience. Say so clearly.

Rules:
- Explain each code in plain words, and say which codes are often linked.
- Rank checks from cheapest and easiest (visual, listening, smoke test) to most expensive, and say what each result would mean.
- Give model-specific known issues and recalls only if you can name a source; otherwise say it's general.
- Don't tell me which part to buy until the checks point to it.
- If a site asks for a login, a CAPTCHA or payment details, stop and hand control back to me.
- Ask for my OK before you pay, book, send, submit or cancel anything.
- Check facts that can change (prices, opening hours, dates, availability, rules) against the official source, and tell me anything you couldn't verify.

Output: A table: code, plain meaning, likely causes for my car, check to do, what result means.

You'll know it worked when: I've done the cheap checks in order and know whether I need a part or a mechanic.

Before you start, ask me 1–3 short questions about anything important that's missing below. Keep them quick. Then do the task, checking in with me at the key points.

Goal: Understand what my car's fault codes likely mean together and get an ordered list of cheap checks to try before paying for parts.

What I can give you (ask for whatever's missing):
- Year, make, model, engine and mileage
- The exact codes from an OBD2 scan (and freeze-frame data if I have it)
- Symptoms: rough idle, smells, noises, when it happens
- Recent repairs or parts already bought

Safety first: anything touching brakes, steering, airbags, fuel lines or lifting the car is a job for a qualified mechanic unless I confirm I have the tools and experience. Say so clearly.

Rules:
- Explain each code in plain words, and say which codes are often linked.
- Rank checks from cheapest and easiest (visual, listening, smoke test) to most expensive, and say what each result would mean.
- Give model-specific known issues and recalls only if you can name a source; otherwise say it's general.
- Don't tell me which part to buy until the checks point to it.
- If a site asks for a login, a CAPTCHA or payment details, stop and hand control back to me.
- Ask for my OK before you pay, book, send, submit or cancel anything.
- Check facts that can change (prices, opening hours, dates, availability, rules) against the official source, and tell me anything you couldn't verify.
- Ask me to report back after each check before moving to the next.

Output: A table: code, plain meaning, likely causes for my car, check to do, what result means.

You'll know it worked when: I've done the cheap checks in order and know whether I need a part or a mechanic.

Before you finish: re-read my goal and constraints, check your answer against each one, and list anything you assumed or couldn't confirm.

Source

https://www.slashgear.com/1391055/can-chat-gpt-help-fix-your-car/