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As a diagnostic tech myself, I'm always on the lookout for new tools that can help me do my job more efficiently. I usually find this to be an extremely challenging task because many of the tools I've been using for years are highly effective at carrying out diagnostic or investigative tasks I come across. However, there are tools I acquire that don't get used very often, but in certain situations, the tool can provide extremely valuable information that enables our shop to proceed toward the goal of finding the root cause of the problem.
In most cases, a new tool will require new knowledge. For example, if you were to acquire a multi-channel lab scope and wanted to use it to identify engine valve to piston timing problems, then you, of course, would not only need to have good foundational knowledge around engine mechanicals, but you would also need to know how to set up and scale a pressure transducer and any other inputs you wanted to monitor. You would then need to know what data to collect and analyze and document your findings to support your diagnostics. So, my suggestion is that with any new tool that you add to your arsenal, you will need to attain the necessary knowledge for achieving success.
The following is a list of the top tools that I admire and may be acquiring in the future or some that I currently use and find highly valuable. Some are new, and some have been around for a while and may be hard to obtain. However, all are highly effective, in my humble opinion, so please stay with me, and let's check these out. Additionally, with more electrified vehicles entering the marketplace, we’ll also explore some new tools to consider adding to your arsenal.
Visuals tools – inspection cameras
Sometimes you need to do a visual inspection that is nearly impossible to do without major disassembly. I’ve used multiple borescopes over the years, which I usually find extremely challenging. We’ve probably all seen the ultra-high-end scopes used in the medical field and wondered why I couldn’t get that level of quality. Well, we all know the obvious reasons for this. One caution I’d like to mention here is that you want to avoid sticking the camera into a hot environment since this can result in destruction! Here are a couple of cameras whose specifications impress me.
FLIR VS80 - High-Performance Videoscope
In addition to their specialty with forward-looking Infra-red, FLIR has brought to market a new videoscope called the VS80.
The FLIR VS80 is outfitted with 1024 by 600 high-resolution 7" touchscreen display and is available in seven different kits with the option to purchase waterproof, ultra-slim probes that can be easily swapped in and out. Probe options include a 4.5mm diameter two-way articulating probe; a four-way articulating probe; a plumbing spool probe with a 25m cable; single HD and dual HD visible camera probes; a standard definition probe; and a general-purpose thermal camera probe.
Vividia ME-610i - Oasis Scientific
The ME-610i or ME-620 works with either an Android or Apple smartphone or tablet to view or record high-resolution (1280x720) images or videos using their free app USee. A 6mm flexible probe with an articulating tip can be helpful with examining areas normally not easily accessible. The unit also has a controllable LED light that surrounds the lens allowing the technician to control exposure. I’ve been using several borescopes that produce varying results and come up short in many areas. I see an upgrade in this category coming soon.
Scan tool diagnostics – Looking to the future
Vehicles are increasingly being equipped with faster network protocols to support the growing number of electronic systems and features that are being integrated into modern vehicles. These systems and features include things like advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), infotainment systems, connected navigation systems, and more. With these advanced networks, your scan tool interfaces need additional circuitry to communicate properly.
While CAN-FD is already supported within the GM MDI2, the Ford VCM2 is not. If you’re servicing late-model GM or Ford vehicles, you may want to look at their next-generation interfaces. Ford has recently released the VCM3, which supports newer protocols, but due to the chip shortage, both tools have scarce availability. One solution is to look at the CanDAQ-Plus 3 from Opus. The CarDAQ-Plus 3 has some advanced future-proof features, such as supporting 4-CAN channels plus CAN-FD, in addition to being J2534 compliant. Additionally, the Mongoose Pro from Opus has also filled the void for some of those affected by chip shortages.
Automotive Test Solutions – eScope Elite 4 or 8 Channel PC-Based Scope
Both scopes have excellent features that can help a technician find the underlying cause of a difficult problem. Whether you’re going in-cylinder to check camshaft/crankshaft synchronization problems, identifying injector or ignition problems, or any multitude of electrical challenges, the oscilloscope is a great asset. But as I mentioned at the beginning of this article, training is key to understanding how to leverage these advanced tools.
GODIAG Breakout Box – AESwave.com
The GODIAG GT100+ ECU Jumper Cable with Banana Plugs allows technicians to connect to and power up one or more modules when performing module diagnostics, programming, or immobilizer work with the GODIAG GD100+ OBD2 Breakout Box. There may be situations where you need to isolate a module by powering it up separately om the vehicle. The GODIAG GD100+ can be a tremendous help in this situation. Additionally, the connections discussed below can be used to connect the CANBUS circuits while performing certain diagnostic tests. "AESwave has customized this cable to include 4mm banana plugs that make adapting to terminal connections easy, especially when combined with the uTest Advanced Terminal Kit or similar breakout leads." (“Custom ECU Cable for the GODIAG BOB - AESwave.com”) Also, the DB25 jumper cable features 37 colored coded and labeled leads that are grouped together by function to make it easier to find the correct one. Each jumper lead terminates to a 4mm shrouded banana plug.
Electrical relay circuit analysis
When performing diagnostics on various power circuits controlled via a relay, I usually operate within one or more of the power distribution centers on the vehicle. This usually provides us quick access to the problem circuit on the vehicle without major disassembly. I have a tool that I’ve been using for over a decade that has helped me make quick diagnostic decisions that I’ll talk about below.
uActivate from AESwave.com
The uActivate comes with various adapters that plug directly into the same socket your relay-controlled circuit under test consumes. It makes quick work for checking relay controls, power, and ground, and provides one with various test points. I was recently informed about the latest version of this tool and was able to get my hands on one recently. s tool is new and improved in several areas, and I’m impressed. One of the cooler parts of the tool is that it provides a high-current loop that allows one to connect a current probe along with shrouded banana jack connections allowing one to monitor, measure and activate circuits on the vehicle under test.
EV tool requirements
Love them or hate them, EVs will need service, and even if you’re already servicing these vehicles, there are some new tools you may want to familiarize yourself with. As you’ll see below, you’ll also need to consider how to address infrastructure charging complaints as well.
Autel – Intelligent EV Diagnostics for Hybrid and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) MS909EV/Ultra EV
Autel has recently introduced a new platform that takes Hybrid/BEV diagnostics to a new level. From the diagnostic port, most Hybrids & BEVs have diagnostic info available but in most cases, that data is limited. Autel’s new offering brings forward a new EV diagnostic capability. Under the New Energy menu, one has all the modern vehicle scan functions, including the network topology layout and new battery cell data that can help with a health assessment. Additionally, the Battery Pack Test menu includes a high-voltage system block diagram, which provides guided pathways for the technician to remove the vehicle connection to the Battery Management System (BMS) and connect the scan tool to the new EV Diag. Box. This interfaces directly with power, ground, and communication circuits to produce a more granular dataset, including battery state of charge, health, total voltage, pack voltage delta, temperature, and more.
This information can help the technician gain a deeper knowledge of the high-voltage battery pack and controls.
EV charger diagnostics
The future will likely introduce problems where a vehicle cannot charge properly, and there may not be anything wrong with the vehicle. So how can one test a charger to see if it works properly? Fluke has introduced a new Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE) diagnostic tool that can help you analyze infrastructure chargers.
Fluke FEV100
This tool can simulate the presence of a vehicle and can perform various tests on the electrical circuits, including available voltage, pilot signal, GFCI functionality tests, and test the various charging states of the vehicle through a selectable knob on the tool. Additionally, the tool provides two female banana jack plugs where a properly rated DVOM can be connected for measurement.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that vehicles will continue to evolve and grow more complex, presenting the diagnostician with ever-increasing challenges. Thank goodness we have companies out there continuing to innovate and bring solutions to the market that help us save time and receive great returns on our investments.
