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Your hub for all of the latest information and technical advice for Snap-on diagnostic tools.

 

Snap-on Technical Focus Articles

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Body Control Module Diagnostics Made Easier: Operation, Testing and Service Functions

Learn how modern Body Control Modules control dozens of vehicle systems, how to diagnose BCM-related issues using functional tests and live data, and why service resets and relearns are critical for successful repairs.

Component Testing Cam and Crank Sensors

Learn how to diagnose cam and crank sensors. Understand Hall‑Effect, inductive and magneto‑resistive sensors, and improve diagnostic accuracy with Fast-Track Guided Component Tests.

Recalibrate and Complete the Job: SRS IMU Calibration & Diagnostic Best Practices

Learn how modern SRS systems operate and why IMU calibration is critical after repair. Discover how to diagnose SRS faults, avoid comebacks, and complete repairs confidently using Snap‑on diagnostic software.

Test Don’t Guess: Component Testing Made Easy with Fast‑Track Guided Tests

Discover how Fast‑Track Guided Component Tests help technicians verify electrical and electronic systems, reduce misdiagnosis, and repair with confidence using known‑good waveforms and scope‑based testing.

Automatic Transmission Operation: IVT TCU Pressure Learn & Oil Pressure Characteristics

Learn how modern automatic transmissions are electronically controlled, how to test them with Snap‑on tools, and how special functions like IVT TCU Pressure Learn and Oil Pressure Characteristics Input improve accuracy and repair success—featuring Hyundai Elantra (2015–2021, IVT) and Nissan NV1500 4.0 L (2020) case studies

HEV Diagnosis and Repair: Safety, Workflows, and New RAM ProMaster BPCM Coverage

Learn the essentials of EV and hybrid diagnosis, including high‑voltage safety, component fundamentals, scan‑tool workflows, and how modern systems rely on software, modules, and network communication for effective troubleshooting.

Body Electrical Operation Testing

Modern body electrical systems no longer resemble the simple switched circuits technicians grew up diagnosing. Windows, mirrors, wipers and lighting functions are now controlled by multiple modules communicating across vehicle networks. Understanding how these systems operate, and how to approach them diagnostically, is essential for reducing diagnostic time and avoiding unnecessary component replacement.

LIN Initialization - Data Bus Fundamentals and Testing

Modern vehicles rely on interconnected networks to operate electronic systems efficiently. While high-speed Controller Area Network (CAN) handles critical engine, transmission, and drivetrain communications, low-speed networks such as Local Interconnect Network (LIN), J1850, and K-Line manage smaller body-related systems and diagnostic access. Understanding how these networks operate, their voltages, and signaling patterns is essential for accurate troubleshooting and repair.

Snap-on News Releases

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Technical Focus: Diesel Diagnostics

In the latest Press Release focused on our January Tech Reference, we'll highlight the variety of differences between diesel and gasoline engines, including how they ignite the air fuel mixture, and their efficiency and performance. Due to their differences, a diagnostic scanner that has the coverage to address the different systems can change the game. At Snap-on, our scanners have great coverage. Take a look at our GM® and Ford® IQA analysis as well as highlighting of the classic Mercedes-Benz® Sprinter®.

Diesel Diagnostics

In this Tech Focus article, we'll highlight the variety of differences between diesel and gasoline engines, including how they ignite the air fuel mixture, and their efficiency and performance. Due to their differences, a diagnostic scanner that has the coverage to address the different systems can change the game. At Snap-on, our scanners have great coverage. Take a look at our GM® and Ford® IQA analysis as well as highlighting of the classic Mercedes-Benz® Sprinter®.

LIN Initialization - Data Bus Fundamentals and Testing

Modern vehicles rely on interconnected networks to operate electronic systems efficiently. While high-speed Controller Area Network (CAN) handles critical engine, transmission, and drivetrain communications, low-speed networks such as Local Interconnect Network (LIN), J1850, and K-Line manage smaller body-related systems and diagnostic access. Understanding how these networks operate, their voltages, and signaling patterns is essential for accurate troubleshooting and repair.

Vehicle Steering Systems

In this technical focus article, we explore the evolution of vehicle steering systems, from early mechanical designs to today’s electric power steering (EPS) technology. Understanding these systems is crucial for modern technicians using Snap-on® car diagnostic tools. Learn about the five types of vehicle steering systems in detail: Worm and sector, recirculating ball, rack and pinion, hydraulic power steering, and electric power steering.