June 2021

Below: Delphi Technologies DS tool 42 AFTERMARKET JUNE 2021 DIAGNOSTICS TOOLS www.aftermarketonline.net that is exclusive to DENSO. The tool is small and offers wireless connection between the OBD II port and the device, speeding up the process and allowing the technician to speak with the customer while the inspection is taking place. “The system can be used to identify hidden issues that a customer may not be aware of. Offering to fix these problems as well could help increase profits, and together with the transparency and communication, aid customer retention. Cloud-based data also allows hundreds of garages to share information on a particular vehicle model, increasing diagnosis efficiency and repair time.” Universal Even when you have the kit, it’s not just a case of plug- and-play nowadays. Cyber security applies to vehicles are much as anything else. Head of Hella Gutmann Solutions (HGS) UK Neil Hilton commented: “Behind the terms security gateway, certificate based automotive security, protection of vehicle diagnostics, central gateway and CAN gateway, are systems designed to protect modern vehicles against unauthorised access and manipulation of their data. “This may be beneficial to security, but it involves considerable effort for independent workshops working across multiple brands. However, in order that independent workshops can continue to compete effectively against the VM’s dealer networks, HGS has implemented a universal key for legally unlocking secured vehicles in the software of the company’s mega macs diagnostic tools, with the new cyber security management (CSM) function. This means that instead of having to register individually with each VM portal, a one-time authentication, activated by proof of identification by passport or identity card, is all that’s needed for a mega macs user to have a clear path to work on all vehicles with a security lock, at the usual diagnostic depth.” HGS’ diagnostic tool is also now available as an Android app, with mega macs ONE transforming a tablet with Android 6.0 or higher and minimum 7-inch screen, into a diagnostic tool. “The introduction of mega macs ONE is particularly important as it allows workshops to access premium level diagnostic capability at budget prices,” said Neil. “By combining the best of HGS knowhow with extremely competitively priced, off-the-shelf Android technology, we have adapted these multifunctional devices into high calibre diagnostic tools.” Unlimited access As we all know, in whatever form it comes, diagnostic kit alone will not help you fix a car. More than that though, with vehicle systems becoming more complex with every new generation, technicians need to be able to remove the uncertainty in programming and complex coding procedures. According to Tony Gill, Customer Services Manager UK/RoW at Opus IVS, the company’s RAP & Remote Services do just that: “RAP & Remote services are accessed via the DrivePro and DrivePro Elite Diagnostic Kit. DrivePro, one of the aftermarket’s revolutionary diagnostic tools, boasts a broad 60-plus vehicle coverage and direct access to Brand-Specific Master Technicians via IVS 360– a support service to which all Opus IVS customers have unlimited access. “With our enhanced offering and expert Brand-Specialist Remote Services Support Team, we can tackle any type of complex programming remotely for workshop technicians with precise results guaranteed.” Explaining why the Opus IVS RAP and Remote Services are so important for workshops looking to grow, Tony commented: "Increasingly OE applications are required to carry out routines such as coding and programming. Installing, maintaining and navigating these applications is time-consuming and, if you only use them infrequently, confusing. By using Opus IVS Remote Services you have access to the OE application you need, when you need it, saving you time and the investment of running your own OE tools." Explaining how it works, Tony said: “A technician simply plugs in their DrivePro diagnostic device into the vehicle being worked on. A simple click and the RAP & Remote Service can be activated allowing the technician to book a RAP Session.The Opus IVS Master Technican then remotely accesses the DrivePro and begins the programming session.The technician can get on with his next job waiting in the workshop.Yes, it really is as simple as that.” He added: “The simplicity of the service allows technicians to remove the uncertainty when it comes to Programming and Complex Coding, ensuring that essential workshop time is saved, and costs are reduced.” Above: HGS mega macs ONE in action