Next-generation diagnostics from Delphi

By Categories: Commercial NewsPublished On: Tuesday 18 January 2022

Delphi Technologies has explained how the inclusion of cutting-edge systems in commercial vehicles has necessitated an uplift in diagnostic functionality, and outlined details of its latest diagnostic tool suitable for the commercial vehicle sector.

With the vans and trucks of today more technically advanced than ever before, the days of purely mechanical systems for important tasks such as fuel delivery, ignition and even braking are now long gone, says the company. The growing use of electrical systems for even the most mundane automotive function means that diagnosing issues becomes a significant challenge without the right tools for the job and the knowledge to go with it; in fact, even routine maintenance can require a few taps on a keyboard and ECU recalibration.

This level of complexity is rapidly increasing too, says Delphi, as new technologies such as hybridisation and active safety systems become more commonplace in the commercial sector, especially in LCVs.

But the firm adds that the tools and knowledge required to service this need are readily accessible and within the reach of garages of all sizes, expanding the range of commercial vehicles they can cater for and enabling them to compete on service with franchised dealers.

“Diagnostics still seems to be a scary subject for some garages, particularly the more traditional and smaller establishments,” said Julian Goulding, Northern Europe marketing manager at Delphi Technologies Aftermarket.

“However, we work to provide independents with a range of diagnostic tools that can interface with any make and model of vehicle, and which can perform a comprehensive range of tasks that were previously exclusively the preserve of the dealer network.

“With our OEM experience, it’s possible we designed the system in the first place, and that means we’re in the very best possible position when it comes to diagnosing faults and identifying issues.”

Delphi Technologies has recently expanded its diagnostic offering with the launch of the BlueTech VCI, its next-generation diagnostic tool.

Covering the LCV, truck and bus sectors, it is said to be five times more powerful than its predecessors and deliver faster vehicle scan times than ever before, while new integrations such as CAN FD, multiple CAN channels, and DoIP (Diagnostics over Internet Protocol) offer garages cost-effective and intuitive access to the latest troubleshooting methods.

The new tool also has integrated security gateway that allows the workshop to seamlessly service security-protected vehicles, adds Delphi, whilst the new DTC-assist functionality provides technicians with guided diagnostic assistance.

“We’ve listened to garages and technicians and worked to incorporate everything they value and need in the BlueTech VCI, including Pass-Thru capability that opens the door to services such as ECU programming that were previously the preserve of franchised dealers and their OE-specific tools,” said Goulding.

“Essentially, now that some vans come equipped with an array of sophisticated Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), we’ve ensured that the BlueTech VCI supports the calibration of most modern ADAS features, while we’ve also looked to optimise its ease-of-use for the technician. For example, with the built-in Flight Recorder mechanics can record a range of parameters during a solo road test, ready for review and analysis once safely back in the workshop.”

With the availability of high-tech yet simple to use diagnostic tools such as the BlueTech VCI, independent garages can now cater for even the most technically advanced vehicles, contends the firm.

For some, these new complex tasks may seem daunting, particularly when approached for the first time. Delphi Technologies emphasises the high level of support it offers, with garages enjoying access to a technical hotline, in-field support, and a comprehensive array of training programmes. Covering topics from emissions to common rail diagnostics, engine management issues to hybrid systems, each can be delivered in-person at the company’s Midlands-based training centre, or online through the new e-learning Academy platform that provides training at the point of need and through any device, including a smartphone.

“By expanding their knowledge and their diagnostic capability, even the smallest independent garages can provide the same level of service as a franchised dealer,” said the company.

“As commercial vehicles become ever more complex, this helps turn a challenge into an opportunity, one where the rewards are increased customer loyalty and, perhaps more importantly, profitability.”

www.delphiautoparts.com