Diagnostics is a key operation in every workshop, so it is no surprise that over 5,000 unique diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are investigated by technicians every day.
Autodata has launched a brand-new DTC module, designed to enhance the user experience by saving technicians valuable time and making diagnostics much quicker and easier.
As useful as DTCs are, sometimes they can be rather difficult to understand. Many technicians have made the time-consuming and expensive mistake of simply replacing components because a DTC was identified; only to find that the problem persists and the same code is being displayed by the code reader. It’s important for technicians to understand that DTCs will not always diagnose direct faults. Instead, they often provide systematic clues that require a combination of technical knowledge and investigation to solve.
One of the new features of the enhanced DTC module (faults & fixes) provides technicians with over 2,400 manufacturer-recommended technical fixes for common faults. The new faults & fixes feature speeds up workshop repairs by immediately notifying technicians if the DTC identified relates to a common problem and presents the user with proven solutions.
Alongside common faults and fixes, Autodata’s new DTC module also introduces a new diagnostic assistant. Autodata’s new ‘Assist Me’ feature is a step-by-step diagnostic guide for technicians. Depending on the vehicle selected and the trouble code identified, Assist Me generates a diagnostics path for technicians to follow. This highly interactive feature uses real-life scenarios to guide technicians, whilst also giving technicians the freedom and flexibility to steer diagnostics.
There are over 79,000 diagnostic trouble codes available in Autodata’s dedicated DTC module, visited over 10,000 times every day. The module provides technicians with everything from basic diagnostic information, such as accessing and erasing trouble codes – to more complex guidance, like identifying the system(s) associated with each diagnostic trouble code and informing technicians which faults are likely to have caused each code, and how to fix the faults.
Having the right diagnostic tools, including accurate and reliable technical data, saves workshops valuable time and expense. Our new DTC features enable workshops to further optimise efficiency. By spending less time carrying out diagnostics, technicians spend less time on each vehicle, therefore increasing the turnover of vehicles in workshops and potentially increasing the revenue of the business. Max Lienard, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at Autodata.