Electronic control modules process data from various sensors and modules controlling multiple systems. Control modules operate on the principle of Boolean logic (the binary system), this is where a statement is either true or false.
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The rise in demand for ‘high-tech’ vehicles has challenged engineers to rethink and create more sophisticated internal systems which promote efficiency. The humble motor is a great example of this with many vehicle manufacturers now using brushless direct current (DC) motors in automotive applications. The brushless motor has many advantages when compared to conventional ‘brushed motors’ but whilst more efficient, the commutation control of the brushless motor is more complex. Take a look at the article to learn more.
This article describes to technicians how a relatively simple fault became slightly more complicated to rectify when a component with different operating parameters was fitted. Damien Coleman will guide you through how to resolve the issue quickly and effectively by further investigation and testing, using a Snap-on diagnostic tool.
This article describes to technicians how a relatively simple fault became slightly more complicated to rectify when a component with different operating parameters was fitted. Damien Coleman will guide you through how to resolve the issue quickly and effectively by further investigation and testing, using a TRITON-D8 and a multimeter from Snap-on.
ADAS systems come in many forms, with everything from blind spot warnings to night vision technologies, and because of the vital job these systems do, it's important to ensure that they are properly calibrated and functioning to prevent any malfunction of the system.
Sometimes a vehicle will suffer from driveability issues and fault codes relating to valve timing. Such conditions can be difficult to diagnose without the correct equipment. The purpose of variable valve timing (VVT) is to help increase the engine’s volumetric efficiency and limit the exhaust gasses produced by the vehicle. By altering when the valves open and close you can optimize the performance of the engine.
The development of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) have been a technological leap forward for the automotive industry. However, new challenges handling car repairs for workshops and bodyshops when ADAS systems are impacted are common. This deep-dive case study walks through the steps taken when a 2016 Mercedes E350 was involved in a collision and repaired, only to find that a warning message indicating ‘lane keeping assist inoperative’ was displayed in the instrument cluster.
Sensor construction and measuring waveforms is a useful place to start when getting to grips with complex brake system faults. Take a look at the article to learn more.
FlexRay is similar to CAN Bus as the data is transmitted over two twisted wires, which act to reduce the effects of external interference on the differential voltage between both wires. Data transfer speeds can be up to 10 times faster than CAN bus, operating at speeds up to 1 Mbits per second.
Local Interconnection (LIN) Bus is a low speed cost effective alternative to CAN bus. LIN gets its name from being a ‘local’ sub-system. Data Transfer speeds can be up to 20 kBits/second. It is designed for sensor/actuator level.
Controller Area Network (CAN) is a data transfer network designed to allow many nodes (modules) to communicate using a standard structure and format. This article will provide the technician with the necessary tools to successfully validate a CAN bus signal and help to identify faults where present.
A very handy feature of the diagnostic software on your Snap-on scan tool is the parameter identification (PID) trigger function. You can set minimum and maximum values and if your data goes outside of those the PID trigger function will automatically save it for you so you can see it later.
There are many different ways to diagnose ignition problems on a vehicle using a Snap-on lab scope.
Find out how the combination of a Snap-on diagnostic tool and software can help make key programming easier.
Learn about some short but important steps you need to follow when it comes to ensuring that replaced modules are fully recognised by a vehicle.
Did you know that fuel injectors on Direct Injection vehicles work differently than a standard fuel injector? Read on to learn more.
Make your life easier by using a Snap-on lab scope and scan tool to check and verify the correctness of vehicle scan data - on the same screen at the same time.
Help make diagnosing a misfiring Ford a lot more straightforward with the aid of a quick and simple test available in Snap-on scan tools.
Discover a new technique included in the latest software upgrade designed to make your life easier when it comes to coding vehicle headlamps.
Take the challenges out of diagnosing modern air/fuel ratio sensors by using this handy process in Snap-on scan tools with up-to-date diagnostic software.
See what was happening before and after the code was set thanks to a handy feature on Snap-on scan tools.
Read on to improve your knowledge of nitrogen oxides from diesel emissions and how to deal with them.
Diagnose fuel pump issues by using your Snap-on lab scope and diagnostic software to generate readings for analysis.
When trying to diagnose a misfire on some vehicles you might suspect that a fuel injector is causing the problems.
Read on to see how you can check data and test that the electronic throttle control system is performing normally – and how you can tell if there is an issue.
Learn about a quick and easy way to test a communication network and get to the bottom of problems efficiently.
The ever-developing technology on modern vehicles means that having a solid diagnostic routine can make you more efficient in the workshop.
Having difficulty diagnosing communication problems on a vehicle? A Snap-on diagnostic platform can help you to overcome the challenges and get to the root cause of the problem.