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Scan Tool Webinar Live with Matt Fanslow, Keith Perkins, Tanner Brandt and Richard Falco - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z


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Take a deep dive into the world of scan tools with Matt Fanslow, Keith Perkins, Tanner Brandt, and Richard Falco. Together they discuss choosing the right scan tool, maximizing scan tool usage, aftermarket vs. factory scan tools, the power of scan data, subscription fees, the future of diagnostics, AND MORE!

Show Notes:

  • The best scan tool? (00:02:22) Discussion on the different types of scan tools and their suitability for specific tasks, such as graphing or coding.
  • Factors to consider when choosing a scan tool (00:05:09) Consideration of the specific needs of the job, including the type of vehicle and the required functionalities, when selecting a scan tool.
  • Increase in non-drivability issues (00:06:51) Discussion about the growing number of non-drivability issues in vehicles, such as electrical, electronic, and climate control problems.
  • Underutilization of scan tools (00:08:23) The importance of utilizing the full potential of scan tools and highlights the lack of knowledge and usage among technicians.
  • Importance of following service procedures (00:10:39) The discussion revolves around the consequences of not following service procedures, leading to shortages of parts and damage to vehicle components.
  • The difference between aftermarket and factory scan tools (00:14:04) Explains the difference in network topology and module pinging between aftermarket and factory scan tools.
  • Module topography and caution with aftermarket scan tools (00:15:26) Discusses the addition of module topography in some scan tools and warns against relying solely on aftermarket scan tools for network layout.
  • Challenges with J 2534 Device vs. Factory OEM Interface (00:23:09) The difficulties of using a J 2534 device instead of the factory interface for vehicle diagnostics and repairs.
  • Communication Challenges in the Automotive Industry (00:27:34) The complex communication networks and different teams involved in engineering and dealership software in car companies.
  • Aftermarket tools for relative compression test (00:30:06) Exploration of aftermarket tools, specifically the E-Scan Elite by ATS, that can perform a relative compression test.
  • Determining the number of modules in a car (00:32:17) Methods for figuring out the number of modules in a car, including using the VIN, RPO codes, and factory scan tools or service information.
  • Throttle Position and Tuners (00:36:01) Discussion on using average throttle position to detect tuners in Chrysler vehicles.
  • Deleted Engines and Missing AFM (00:36:57) Exploration of issues with deleted engines and missing AFM codes after reprogramming.
  • Scan Data and Power Complaints (00:39:25) Using scan data and the ATG calculator to determine if a car has a power issue.
  • The climbing subscription fees (00:43:19) Discussion on the possibility of group buys or legislation to address increasing subscription fees for tools.
  • Nissan V2 repairs (00:45:40) Issues with repairing Nissan V2 vehicles, including the unavailability of certain parts and the need for extensive work.
  • The problem with JLR devices (00:50:59) Discussion about the issues with JLR devices and the only devices that work for JLR diagnostics.
  • Manufacturers locking out aftermarket tools (00:51:53) Clarification that no manufacturers are planning on locking out aftermarket tools, but security gateways may cause some functions to not work temporarily.
  • Expert mode on VW Audi Snap-on Zeus (00:54:08) Advice on using expert mode on VW Audi Snap-on Zeus and the availability of interfaces and online scan tools for newer models.
  • Problems caused by non-factory tooling (00:57:50) Discussion about the daily challenges of fixing BMWs due to problems caused by non-factory tooling.
  • Remote programming and scam tool manufacturers (00:59:29) Exploration of the rise of remote programming services offered by scam tool manufacturers and the potential risks involved.
  • Recovering modules and dealing with software numbers (01:02:11) Explanation of the process of recovering modules, including the use of factory as-built data and dealing with software numbers that have been tampered with.
  • The use of Forscan for programming (01:04:45) Discussion on the use of Forscan for programming and how it can be helpful in manipulating as-built data.
  • Missing as-built data (01:07:17) Discussion on missing as-built data and the possibility of it being a result of a file upload error.
  • Finding and purchasing a Mercedes factory scan tool (01:11:52) Discussion on resources and process for acquiring a Mercedes factory scan tool, including the need for a separate credit card.
  • Accessing service information and becoming a staff member (01:12:24) Exploration of resources for service information, including the importance of becoming a staff member and accessing knowledge articles on the CRM landing page.
  • Ford light and vehicle security professional credentials (01:14:03) Discussion on the Ford light tool, its features, pricing, and the addition of PATS programming. Mention of vehicle security professional credentials and insurance requirements.
  • The insurance agent issue (01:20:26) Explains the problem of using the wrong insurance agent when trying to get insurance for a mobile diagnostic business.
  • Using scan tools for non-drivability issues (01:21:40) Discusses the importance of using scan tools to diagnose electrical, body, and comfort access problems in vehicles.
  • Troubleshooting HVAC module issue (01:23:57) Describes a case study of a common problem with the AC compressor clutch and how to use scan data to determine if the HVAC module is the issue.
  • The AC Compressor Code (01:27:00) Explains how clearing a code can temporarily fix the AC compressor, but the code will turn off the compressor again when it sets.
  • Aftermarket Blower Motor Speed Controller (01:27:54) Warns against using aftermarket speed controllers for blower motors, as they can cause the AC to stop working.
  • Using Data PIDs for Diagnosis (01:28:45) Discusses how data PIDs can be used to diagnose issues with starter request, ignition, and immobilizer systems.
  • The importance of vehicle door configuration (01:34:16) Explains how vehicle door configuration data can indicate if someone has tampered with the doors or disabled certain features.
  • The impact of affordable scan tools (01:35:12) Discusses how affordable scan tools can lead to inexperienced individuals causing problems by disabling features like TPMS.
  • The shift in focus for scan tool companies (01:37:14) Explores how scan tool companies are prioritizing coding capabilities over graphing capabilities due to the increasing complexity of vehicle modules.
  • The cable compatibility issue (01:41:52) Discussion about the USB cable compatibility for the VCI tool and the potential risks of using other cables.
  • Possible future updates in scan tools (01:43:36) Suggestion to create a platform to list the known scan tool functions and the challenges of keeping up with updates.

 

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA AUTOTECH napaautotech.com

 

Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

 

Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio

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  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

         0 comments
      It always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
      While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
      Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
      One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.
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    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training
      Key Points & Takeaways:
      The Problem:
      A 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee (collision repair) came in with blind spot warning and parking aid malfunction lights on. No functionality in either system post-repair.
      Initial Diagnosis:
      Verified the concern (instrument cluster lit up with warnings). Used an aftermarket scan tool (Snap-on Ultra) and found: ADAS control module had multiple DTCs for open/short circuits on all radar sensors. Parking aid module had similar codes for ultrasonic sensors. Vehicle was hit in the passenger rear, leading to replacement of the bumper, harness, and rear hatch.
      Suspected Causes:
      Blown fuse (common culprit for multiple system failures). Crushed/damaged wiring harness (common after collisions). Module failure due to impact.
      Testing & Findings:
      Checked power and ground at the ADAS module—all good. Inspected wiring harness for damage (no visible issues). Critical Clue: Wire colors didn’t match the schematic. Initially dismissed as a common schematic error. Later realized the entire harness was installed backward (left/right sides flipped).
      The Fix:
      Flipped the harness and radar modules to their correct positions. All codes cleared except two for the blind spot radars—turned out they were also swapped. After correction, all systems worked perfectly.
      Lessons Learned:
      Don’t get stuck in a diagnostic rabbit hole. Good techs pivot when clues don’t add up. Man-made problems can be the trickiest. Always verify previous work (especially after collisions). Wire color discrepancies matter. Even if schematics are often wrong, they can reveal bigger issues. "Slow down to speed up." Rushing leads to wasted time; methodical checks save hours.
      Final Thoughts:
      Awareness is key. Catch yourself when fixating on one theory. Experience can work against you. Stay open to new clues, even if they conflict with past patterns.
      Contact Information
      Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
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    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training
      NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
      Contact Information
      Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
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      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
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    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
      NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
      Contact Information
      Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
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      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
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    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
      NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
      Contact Information
      Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
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      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      The Aftermarket Radio Network
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
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    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
      Matt Fanslow dives into listener-submitted questions, covering:
      Multimeter recommendations (why he prefers insulation testers/meggers over basic DMMs). Electrical diagnostic strategies (schematics, scan tools, and stress-testing circuits). The "Flat Rate Test Drive" (a drivability diagnostic trick for load/PID analysis). Gaming picks (Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster). Scan tool advice for techs doing more drivability work.
      Timestamps:
      (00:00) – Intro 
      (02:33) – Multimeter recommendations: Why Matt avoids basic DMMs and prefers:
      Fluke 1587 or Pico TA467 (insulation testers for EVs/future-proofing). Used Vantage/Vantage Pro (graphing + scope functions). Curien (Bluetooth-enabled multimeter).
      (11:44) – Electrical diagnostic process:
      Start with a wiring schematic. Use a scan tool to check module inputs/commands. Stress-test circuits (e.g., load with a headlight for power/ground checks). Leverage relays for centralized testing (control/output sides).
      (22:48) – Shoutout to trainer Richard Velko.
      (23:17) – "Flat Rate Test Drive" explained:
      Monitor PIDs (load, MAF, MAP, O2 sensors) during WOT pulls to isolate drivability issues (fuel vs. restriction).
      (34:42) – Gaming corner: Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster.
      (38:53) – Scan tool recommendations for drivability:
      HP Tuners (budget-friendly, fast data logging). Used Snap-on Solus Edge/Ultra (enhanced OEM data). Shop responsibility (tools should be shop-provided!).
      Quotes
      "I don’t buy just a pure multimeter anymore... Get an insulation tester. You’ll need it for EVs/hybrids." – Matt "The ‘Flat Rate Test Drive’ stresses the engine while watching PIDs to split the problem in half." – Matt "For drivability, HP Tuners is my top pick—great data logging without breaking the bank." – Matt
      Tools & Resources Mentioned:
      Multimeters: Fluke 1587, Pico TA467, Vantage Pro, Curien. Diagnostic Tactics: Wiring diagrams, scan tool bi-directionals, current ramping. Games: Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Days Gone Remaster. Scan Tools: HP Tuners, Snap-on Solus Edge, TopDon XTool.
      Final Thoughts:
      Matt’s takeaway? Invest in versatile tools (like megohmmeters) and lean on schematics/scan tools to avoid diagnostic rabbit holes.
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
      NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
      Contact Information
      Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      The Aftermarket Radio Network
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio


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