With the global market forecast to grow at 1.3 percent annually over the next five years, combined with the ongoing transition to higher pressure systems, commercial vehicles represent a growing, high-value opportunity for both distributors and garages. As well as transforming the way these vehicles work, the ever-increasing electronic content, will fundamentally change how they are diagnosed and repaired too. Garages must now be able to reach deep into the vehicle’s systems and for this you’ll need a quality electronic diagnostic tool. But with so few offering true capability on commercial vehicles, which one should you choose? Who better to help you decide than Delphi, a leading provider of advanced propulsion solutions to the top 10 on-highway commercial vehicle manufacturers…

One key aspect to look out for is the breadth and depth of application coverage. Certain tools will claim extensive vehicle coverage, but in fact will only diagnose limited systems within them. Therefore, make sure that you look closely at the level of coverage provided. Delphi’s DS diagnostic software for trucks, trailers and buses, for example, covers more than 70 brands, 675 models and 16,000 unique system selections. On top of the standard programmes such as reading and erasing fault codes, it also lets users reset adaptations for key systems such as EGR, air mass meter and EBS, perform dosing tests, regenerate the SCR system and calibrate suspension levels.

With growing pressure to minimize vehicle downtime, choosing a tool that’s quick and easy to use is just as important. Our DS tool also provides a number of built-in features for quick, easy and accurate diagnostics and repair, including Intelligent System Scan, Intelligent System Identification, help files with step-by-step instructions, a report function and its latest addition, a diagnostic trouble code search function. With this time saving, new feature, users can search for fault code supporting information without being connected to the vehicle, and determine whether it’s a critical issue, or if the vehicle can go on the road.

Even with a powerful and easy to use diagnostic tool, a good understanding of the key vehicle systems and how to diagnose and repair them is still a must. With our Vehicle Technical Information (VTI), integrated into the tool, and available as a standalone package, you’ll have access to in-depth maintenance and repair data, guiding you through the diagnostic, repair and calibration process in the workshop.

It’s also a good idea to opt for a diagnostic provider with an OE pedigree – like Delphi. With a proven capability in state-of-the-art commercial vehicle engine management and powertrain control technologies, we have an intimate understanding of the specialist requirements of this sector. This means we know precisely how these vehicles work and what it takes to get them back on the road when they don’t.

Armed with this knowledge, we can ensure the aftermarket has the right tools and know-how to diagnose and repair them from the moment they leave the dealership. So, the next time you’re in the market for a commercial vehicle diagnostic tool, choose Delphi for in-built OE expertise, and true heavy-weight capability, at your fingertips.