Workshop Solutions September 2016 SR

Diagnostics Solutions

NOHASSLE WARRANTY

BEST PRICE PROMISE

WHAT IS THE RIGHT DIAGNOSTICS SOLUTIONS FOR YOU? Today’s mechanical workshops cannot function without diagnostics equipment but are you getting the best out of what you’ve got? And more importantly, is the diagnostics kit you have right for you? Your diagnostics equipment should give you confidence that you’ve found the root cause of a problem, enabling you to make a repair quickly, efficiently and, of course, profitably. Here COMMUNICATION There are three aspects to a diagnostic machine’s communication capability: vehicle coverage, communication protocols and the user interface. Broad vehicle coverage is now expected on universal diagnostics machines. Vehicles have had a standard EOBD (or, for older vehicles, an OBD) communication port for many years, so at one level, all diagnostics machines do cover all vehicles because they will be able to carry out a basic Read/Reset*. But all-makes workshops still get caught out now and then, so vehicle coverage is still relevant. Alternatively, you may be looking for specialisation. Vehicle computer electronic data exchange systems (communication protocols) continue to evolve, enabling more data to flow more quickly in either direction. Knowledge of the communication protocols of a particular machine will provide an understanding of what the machine is ultimately capable of, so it’s a key consideration when making a purchase. Finally, the way the software presents you with information, vehicle feedback, and options on the screen (the user interface) is a matter of individual preference but it’s important nevertheless. Firstly you need useful results, information that takes you further in your fault-finding; not data that throws up more questions. Machines that contain reference data that you can compare against your live test results have an advantage. Secondly even if you think you know the problem, with today’s interconnected systems can you be certain that simply replacing the component will resolve the problem with no come-backs? Features like guided troubleshooting, experts’ forums and live tech helplines all help you interpret diagnostic results more thoroughly, and quickly. ACTUATION – CODING AND SPECIAL FUNCTIONS The ability to instruct or code vehicle ECUs and components. Some diagnostics solutions provide OEM level aftermarket software and may well do so on a range of vehicles. Some offer Pass Thru capability that allows access to OEM interfaces and some offer the capability to download OEM software and operate it alongside the aftermarket software*. DATA RETRIEVAL The way a diagnostic machine handles data is important on two levels.

we review some of the key areas to consider when looking at diagnostics equipment. But remember, you don’t have to be an expert in this; that’s our job. So talk to our Workshop Equipment Specialists, they’ll help you choose a diagnostic machine that covers your needs and meets your expectations.

JOB RECORDING Will you want to print ‘before and after’ test results for your customer? Would it be useful for you to be able to recall the information in the future? Some machines have this capability.

* Separate software subscriptions to each OEM are required to operate OEM software.

†Finance example typically based on a 5 year lease purchase agreement. Finance subject to status, full terms and conditions available on request. Other finance options available. All prices exclude VAT at 20%. Price, availability and specification may change without prior notice. Warranty subject to manufacturers terms and conditions of use. Errors and omissions excluded. Offers valid until 31st December 2016. Prices correct at time of going to press: September 2016.

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