7

Diagnostic techniques

In Chapter 5 several examples of sensor performance details are given which show how an oscilloscope can be used to obtain readings from sensors while they are in operation. Similarly, in Chapter 6 the types of test results that are obtained when actuators are operating are also shown. This shows that there is a 'body' of knowledge which is applicable to fault diagnosis across a wide range of automotive systems. This chapter goes more deeply into the general principles of fault diagnosis techniques that are applicable to computer controlled automotive systems in general. For example, in the testing of circuits which often follows the reading out of a fault code, the descriptions cover the general principles of circuit testing, such as continuity, voltage drop, resistance and current flow. These principles, like the oscilloscope patterns for sensors and actuators, apply to virtually any vehicle system and the ability to perform them will assist vehicle service technicians in their work. In keeping with the aim of concentrating on factors that have general application across a range of systems, it is not intended to provide details of individual systems. Such treatment requires a good deal of repetition of basic knowledge, and the variations that exist across vehicle types and makes means that the amount of information that is needed for accurate diagnosis is vast. In some cases the diagnostic data is freely available, in other cases it is restricted to authorized repairers. In most cases the makers of diagnostic equipment supply diagnostic support services and these services provide a valuable source of information for independent garages and others.

7.1 Circuit testing

The test shown in Fig. 7.1(b) is useful for determining whether the circuit is complete between the points at which the meter leads are applied. The circuit itself must be switched off and the electrical supply for the test derived from the battery of the multimeter. Some meters are equipped with a buzzer which sounds if the circuit is complete and others use the ohm-meter scale of the multimeter.