Computerized Diagnostics Technician Course

Lesson 1 • Safety and Shop Practices

Establishes safe handling of diagnostic equipment, high-voltage systems, and hazardous materials. Ensures students meet professional safety standards before hands-on work.

Lesson 2 • Diagnostic Process Fundamentals

Introduces the structured diagnostic workflow from symptom collection to verified repair. Connects logical reasoning to efficient fault isolation.

Lesson 3 • Electrical Basics for Diagnostics

Reviews voltage, current, resistance, and circuit types relevant to diagnostic work. Provides the electrical foundation needed for scan tool interpretation.

Lesson 1 • OBD Architecture and History

Traces the evolution from early proprietary systems to standardized OBD-II. Contextualizes current diagnostic capabilities within regulatory and technical history.

Lesson 2 • Mode and PID Data Streams

Covers OBD service modes and parameter IDs used to access live sensor data. Links PID selection to targeted diagnostic strategies.

Lesson 3 • Readiness Monitors and Drive Cycles

Explains how OBD monitors self-test vehicle systems and when they set. Prepares students to manage monitor completion for emissions and repair verification.

Lesson 4 • Diagnostic Trouble Codes

Decodes the structure and classification of DTCs across all system categories. Enables accurate code interpretation before any physical testing begins.

Lesson 1 • Bidirectional Control Functions

Explains actuator tests, output controls, and forced-function commands available on advanced tools. Enables active component testing without disassembly.

Lesson 2 • Tool Setup and Vehicle Connection

Covers DLC location, connector types, and proper tool initialization procedures. Ensures reliable communication before data collection begins.

Lesson 3 • Live Data Capture and Analysis

Teaches graphing, recording, and comparing live sensor data during vehicle operation. Connects data patterns to specific fault conditions.

Lesson 4 • Programming and Relearn Procedures

Covers module programming, key fob coding, and sensor relearn sequences. Prepares students for post-repair calibration tasks required on modern vehicles.

Lesson 1 • Fuel System Diagnosis

Analyzes fuel trim data, injector performance, and fuel pressure to identify delivery faults. Connects long-term and short-term trim patterns to specific root causes.

Lesson 2 • Oxygen and Lambda Sensor Diagnosis

Interprets upstream and downstream oxygen sensor waveforms to assess fuel control and catalyst efficiency. Distinguishes sensor faults from fuel system faults.

Lesson 3 • Engine Mechanical Influence on Data

Identifies how compression loss, cam timing, and valve train wear affect scan tool data. Prevents misdiagnosis of mechanical faults as sensor or calibration issues.

Lesson 4 • Ignition System Diagnostics

Diagnoses misfire codes, coil performance, and spark delivery using scan data and secondary ignition patterns. Builds on electrical fundamentals from Chapter 1.

Lesson 1 • Manual Transmission and Clutch Diagnosis

Covers clutch hydraulic circuit testing, synchronizer wear indicators, and input shaft sensor faults. Applies scan data where electronic controls are present.

Lesson 2 • Automatic Transmission Fault Diagnosis

Uses DTCs, live data, and solenoid tests to isolate shift quality, slippage, and engagement faults. Connects electronic findings to hydraulic and mechanical causes.

Lesson 3 • Driveline and Transfer Case Faults

Diagnoses four-wheel-drive engagement, driveshaft vibration, and differential sensor faults. Links driveline DTCs to mechanical and electronic root causes.

Lesson 1 • ABS and Traction Control Faults

Isolates ABS modulator, pump motor, and solenoid faults using bidirectional tests and DTCs. Connects wheel speed data to control module logic.

Lesson 2 • Brake System Electronic Diagnosis

Covers electronic parking brake, brake pressure sensor, and brake-by-wire fault diagnosis. Applies bidirectional tool functions to brake actuator testing.

Lesson 3 • Steering and Suspension Sensor Faults

Diagnoses electric power steering torque sensors, ride height sensors, and active suspension faults. Links sensor data to steering assist and suspension control logic.

Lesson 4 • Electronic Stability Control Diagnosis

Diagnoses yaw rate, lateral acceleration, and steering angle sensor faults affecting stability control. Covers calibration requirements after sensor replacement.

Lesson 1 • Vehicle Network Architecture

Maps CAN, LIN, and MOST network topologies and identifies module roles on each bus. Establishes the network understanding required for communication fault diagnosis.

Lesson 2 • HVAC and Comfort System Faults

Diagnoses automatic climate control, blend door actuators, and refrigerant pressure sensor faults. Uses bidirectional tests to verify actuator and blower operation.

Lesson 3 • Body Control Module Diagnostics

Diagnoses BCM-controlled lighting, power accessories, and security system faults using scan data. Connects BCM outputs to network communication status.

Lesson 4 • Network Fault Diagnosis Methods

Uses scan tool network tests, oscilloscope waveforms, and resistance checks to isolate bus faults. Covers open, short, and termination resistance failures.

Lesson 1 • Oscilloscope Use in Diagnostics

Applies oscilloscope waveform capture to sensor signals, actuator circuits, and communication buses. Extends diagnostic capability beyond scan tool data limits.

Lesson 2 • Multi-System Fault Analysis

Diagnoses faults that generate codes across multiple modules by identifying shared root causes. Builds on network and sensor knowledge from all prior chapters.

Lesson 3 • Intermittent Fault Diagnosis

Develops strategies for capturing, reproducing, and confirming faults that do not set consistently. Applies data logging and freeze frame analysis to elusive failures.

Lesson 4 • Diagnostic Documentation and Reporting

Covers professional documentation of diagnostic findings, test results, and repair recommendations. Connects accurate records to liability protection and customer communication.