But OnStar's virtual diagnostic service provides immediate data that can give engineers a jump on potential quality issues before customers even notice a problem.

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For its part, deCODE emphasizes that what it is offering is not a medical diagnostic test but merely an information service for those who are curious.

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Car dealers have figured out that the real money is in their service departments, where they can charge hefty prices for engine diagnostic work or manufacturer-built replacement parts.

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