Recognise the limits of diagnostics systems
These systems only tell half of the story, and fixing the problem often relies on your skill.
-
-
Invest in training
It’s essential that you get as much training as you can on using diagnostic tools, whether that’s live or virtual. The investment will pay off for both your workshop and you as a mechanic with increasingly relevant and valuable skills. Delphi Technologies offers a range of diagnostic training courses that can bring you up to speed quickly and comprehensively.
-
Use OEM tools
These are often the most accurate tools available to you, and bypass any security and software updating issues you might encounter. Even in passing the cost of using these tools to your customer, your workshop will still be cheaper than a main dealer but provide a service that is as effective.
-
Embrace change
Hybrid and EV vehicles, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and advanced digital diagnostics are now fully mainstream, and working with these systems will achieve faster results for you as a technician or mechanic than working without them.
-
Use aftermarket diagnostic tools
These are highly capable of diagnosing basic faults.
-
Use a live OEM technical data system
Some fault codes you will encounter will have more information on the OEM system. Their live technical data will often have detailed breakdowns of these faults and how to fix them.
-
Consider your most commonly repaired vehicles
Asses which are the types of vehicles you service most often, and then consider specialising in these vehicles. It will make it easier for you to purchase the systems you need to maintain them.
-
Charge for their use
Diagnostic tools actually save your customers money, but they have a significant cost to your workshop. For this reason it’s vital that you and your workshop charge honestly, transparently and fully for their use.
