Vehicle Diagnostics Course

Lesson 1 • Major Vehicle Subsystems Overview

Surveys engine, transmission, braking, chassis, and body systems at a functional level. Provides context for interpreting diagnostic data across all vehicle platforms.

Lesson 2 • Diagnostic Process and Workflow

Introduces a structured six-step diagnostic process from complaint to verification. Prevents random-part replacement by anchoring decisions in evidence-based reasoning.

Lesson 3 • Introduction to Electronic Control Units

Explains how ECUs receive sensor inputs, process data, and send actuator commands. Connects ECU logic to observable vehicle behaviour and fault generation.

Lesson 1 • Data Logging and Report Generation

Teaches how to capture, save, and export diagnostic sessions for review and documentation. Supports professional record-keeping and remote diagnostic collaboration.

Lesson 2 • Types of Automotive Scanners

Compares OEM dealer tools, professional aftermarket scanners, and PC-based interfaces. Helps students select the right tool for a given vehicle and diagnostic task.

Lesson 3 • OBD-II Port and Connector Standards

Details the 16-pin diagnostic connector pinout, power supply, and communication pin assignments. Ensures safe and correct physical connection before any software interaction.

Lesson 4 • Scanner Software Navigation

Guides students through menu structures, vehicle identification entry, and data display modes. Efficient navigation reduces diagnostic time and prevents missed data.

Lesson 1 • Diagnosing Network Communication Faults

Applies protocol knowledge to locate open circuits, short circuits, and missing modules on the network. Connects theory to scanner no-communication and U-code fault scenarios.

Lesson 2 • OBD-II Protocol Suite

Explains the five OBD-II protocols: ISO 9141-2, KWP2000, SAE J1850 PWM/VPW, and CAN. Identifies which protocol a vehicle uses before initiating communication.

Lesson 3 • LIN, MOST, and FlexRay Networks

Introduces secondary vehicle networks used for body, multimedia, and safety systems. Expands diagnostic scope beyond the main CAN backbone to all networked modules.

Lesson 1 • DTC Structure and Classification

Decodes the five-character DTC format including system prefix, fault type, and specific fault number. Enables rapid identification of the affected system and fault category.

Lesson 2 • Active, Pending, and Historical Codes

Distinguishes current faults from intermittent and stored historical codes. Correct code status interpretation prevents misdiagnosis of already-repaired or unrelated faults.

Lesson 3 • Prioritising Multiple DTCs

Teaches a logical sequence for addressing multiple simultaneous codes to avoid chasing symptoms. Identifies root-cause codes versus cascade codes triggered by a single failure.

Lesson 4 • Manufacturer-Specific DTC Resources

Guides students to OEM service information, technical service bulletins, and known-fix databases. Reduces diagnostic time by leveraging documented repair solutions.

Lesson 1 • Correlating Parameters Across Systems

Teaches cross-system parameter comparison to confirm a single root cause affecting multiple modules. Prevents replacing parts in one system when the fault originates elsewhere.

Lesson 2 • Engine Management Live Data

Analyses MAF, MAP, O2, fuel trim, and ignition timing data under various operating conditions. Connects parameter relationships to common engine performance faults.

Lesson 3 • Transmission and Drivetrain Data

Monitors gear selection, slip ratio, line pressure, and torque converter lockup data. Identifies transmission control faults before they escalate to mechanical damage.

Lesson 4 • Selecting and Organising PIDs

Explains parameter identification selection, grouping, and display rate optimisation. Efficient PID selection prevents data overload and keeps critical values visible during testing.

Lesson 1 • Body and Comfort System Commands

Controls window motors, door lock actuators, HVAC blend doors, and lighting modules via scanner. Isolates body system faults to the module, wiring, or mechanical actuator.

Lesson 2 • Engine System Actuator Tests

Executes injector cut tests, idle speed control, EGR valve commands, and VVT solenoid activation. Confirms actuator mechanical and electrical integrity without component removal.

Lesson 3 • Module Resets and Adaptations

Performs throttle body relearn, transmission adaptation reset, and steering angle calibration. Ensures correct module behaviour after component replacement or software update.

Lesson 4 • Brake and Chassis Actuator Tests

Commands ABS solenoids, electronic handbrake motors, and suspension actuators through the scanner. Verifies brake system component function before road testing.

Lesson 1 • Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Diagnostics

Reads high-voltage battery state-of-charge, cell balance, and inverter data using scanner tools. Applies safety isolation procedures before any HV system diagnostic work.

Lesson 2 • Advanced Driver Assistance System Diagnostics

Addresses radar, camera, and ultrasonic sensor faults in ADAS modules using scanner calibration routines. Covers alignment requirements and post-repair recalibration procedures.

Lesson 3 • ABS, Traction, and Stability Control

Diagnoses wheel speed sensor faults, yaw rate sensor errors, and stability control inhibit conditions. Uses scanner data to distinguish sensor faults from hydraulic control unit faults.

Lesson 4 • Emission System Diagnostics

Diagnoses catalytic converter efficiency, EVAP system integrity, and EGR performance using scanner data. Connects readiness monitor status to emission test outcomes.

Lesson 1 • Building a Systematic Diagnostic Strategy

Combines DTC analysis, live data, and actuator tests into a structured decision tree. Reduces diagnostic time by eliminating guesswork and focusing on confirmed evidence.

Lesson 2 • Continuous Skill Development

Identifies resources for staying current with new vehicle platforms, scanner software, and diagnostic techniques. Builds a personal development plan for long-term diagnostic excellence.

Lesson 3 • Verifying Repairs with the Scanner

Uses post-repair scanning, drive cycle completion, and readiness monitor checks to confirm successful repair. Prevents comeback visits by validating the fix before vehicle delivery.

Lesson 4 • Professional Diagnostic Reporting

Structures written diagnostic reports with findings, evidence, and repair recommendations for customers and service advisors. Clear reporting supports accurate estimates and customer trust.