June 2020

A spokesman for Snap-on observed: “The complexity in today's vehicles and the amount of research required to diagnose various systems can be overwhelming. Intelligent Diagnostics compiles all the necessary information together into a diagnostic workflow. “When a vehicle pulls into the garage, technicians are likely to encounter interdependent fault codes, live data points, graphs, flow charts and diagrams. With so much information available, the biggest challenge is to find and follow the right clues to a solution. Intelligent Diagnostics makes it possible for technicians to be more efficient by bringing tests and information related specifically to a DTC to one place.” Addition Getting into the specifics, Snap-on’s spokesman said: “Intelligent Diagnostics includes smart shortcuts to take technicians to information directly related to that code, and provides pre-filtered information for a host of areas. These include TSBs, recalls and campaigns, as well as scanner data and PIDS with smart data to highlight out-of-range results. Intelligent Diagnostics also include award-winning SureTrack real fixes, tips and top repair charts, as well as functional tests and guided component tests.” There’s more: “Snap-on is making it easier than ever for professional technicians to find the best Intelligent Diagnostics-enabled platform for their specific needs with the addition of a tool matcher feature on its website. “After completing a short survey about the jobs, they perform every day and the features that they use or believe would come in handy. The results give technicians an overview of the product and allow them to watch a video as well as request a demonstration from their local Snap- on franchisee or other representatives.” To use the tool matcher, visit: Diagnostics.snapon.co.uk/tool- matcher Significant demand Looking at the next few months, accurate diagnosis will prove to be vital as the UK’s cars start being used again. Adam White, Workshop Solutions Director at Euro Car Parts observed: “Flat batteries are likely to be a source of significant demand for garages. A vehicle that has its battery replaced due to a non-start after a long period of non-use may be incorrectly diagnosed as having reached the end of its lifespan. “However, the true cause may be undiagnosed internal faults preventing the vehicle from fully shutting down. These can cause batteries to run flat again over a period of days, meaning it is crucial that in-depth diagnostics become the norm for technicians managing battery-related enquiries. “Tools such as the Bosch KTS560 software can help technicians identify the root cause of battery faults, enabling technicians to take the most appropriate course of action and provide the best service to customers.” On other likely common issues, Adam added: “Vehicles with DPFs are likely to face issues as a result of making shorter, less frequent journeys, which prevent the system from actively regenerating and emptying. Garages have an opportunity to support customers with manual regeneration to help protect their DPF systems. At present, your diagnostic tools might be gathering dust due to the lockdown. However, with moves to transition people back to work, now might be the time to look at what you are using. “Launch UK has been extremely busy over the past few weeks,” said Dave Richards, Launch Tech UK Managing Director, “and is continuing to support garages and motor factors with diagnostic solutions. “The company is improving product descriptions on www.launchtech.co.uk and also beginning to re-shoot pictures of all key products. We have also upgraded the support section of the website, with more vehicle specific information and software updates. Going forward, Launch is producing a number of useful videos that assist customers with using the diagnostic range and offering tips and advices to garages.” Investigation Launch UK has also warned of the dangers of purchasing from some internet diagnostic tool sellers. “On eBay alone,” said Dave “the company has found at least 50 sellers claiming to be genuine diagnostic sellers, but list inaccurate company information such as a UK base and fraudulent VAT numbers. “The Launch investigation also raised a number of issues and found that products were not necessarily counterfeit but were of a lower specification, inferior quality and masquerading as ‘genuine’ products. The providers offered no support, updates or traceability to customers and fell foul of tax legislation.” Dave added: “The rise of spurious internet sellers is damaging the reputation of the automotive industry and also the hard-working diagnostic tool providers. Launch has notified the authorities of its investigation and is also advising customers through social media channels.” Electrification Looking further ahead, with the rapid growth of hybrid and electric vehicles (HEVs) in the marketplace, workshops need to be confident in diagnosing 36 AFTERMARKET JUNE 2020 DIAGNOSTICS www.aftermarketonline.net THE TOOLS FOR THE JOB... You need the right equipment in today’s automotive environment, and diagnostic tools have never been more essential