Today’s modern vehicle can have over 100 discrete Electronic Control Units (ECUs), fully networked, sharing data. They are not just a “computer on wheels“, they are a “computer network on wheels“! Each of the ECUs is equipped with self-diagnostic capabilities, and thousands of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) can be set on the network. Faults can include component degradation/failure, network communication errors, programming/configuration errors and circuit faults. When a vehicle is in need of system diagnosis, or has been involved in a collision, a professional-grade diagnostic scan tool is necessary to read all the system-wide DTCs. A proper diagnostic path can then be documented to assure the repair is completed correctly and timely.

Additionally, when repairs are completed, a post scan is necessary to confirm all DTCs have properly cleared and all safety systems are operating as the OEM designed.