After any vehicle accident has occurred, it is important to perform both pre-repair and post-repair full diagnostic scans to all ECU modules to test for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). You may be familiar with automotive technicians performing a scan on a vehicle to find issues during a service. However now most premium panel repair shops will perform a vehicle scan using a current official diagnostic scanner as part of the repair estimate process. Pre-scan before any accident repairs begin, because after a collision there is more than just external visible damage to the body of the car. What may not be as obvious is other damage to the vehicle’s many onboard systems and safety features. A pre-scan determines not only what is not working, but also sensor and component damage, this scan captures the diagnostic trouble codes which determines any potential damage as a result of the collision and is important for the insurance claim repair process. The pre-repair diagnostic scan may determine issues unrelated to the collision and distinguish them from those that are collision-created. A post- repair full systems diagnostic scan will improve the quality control of the repair process and can assist with any damage related fault codes to the collision, and any other faults which may require a follow up repair by a Mechanic or specialist repairer. A post-scan will also determine if any new issues developed during repair, which is uncommon but sometimes happens and can be identified and cleared. Some codes require a brief test drive to clear. Some auto-manufacturers require shops with certified technicians to perform both scans as part of its certification process. For example General Motors require both pre and post scans along with set calibration / relearn functions to restore the vehicle back to its pre-crash condition.
The DTCs are generally stored in specific modules such as the SRS, Body control module, or Powertrain control units. These DTCs can provide relevant safety and operational information and other components, such as sensors, cameras, and radars, etc used in the vehicle’s safety systems. An unknown fact is that most DTC alerts may not always stay illuminated on the dash, so testing for diagnostic codes is important both before and after repairs are made, even if the repairs appear to be minor. Diagnostic scanning helps ensure accurate estimates before work commences, post-repair scanning also helps ensure that all systems are communicating and functioning as originally designed. The repairer now has greater confidence they have completed the repair thoroughly, resulting in the vehicle being restored to the condition prior to the accident.
Diagnostic scanning procedures should not be considered an option, but rather as an integral part of both the pre-repair collision estimating phase and after the repairs are completed. Another major OEM wrote “it is imperative” to scan for DTCs after a collision and warned that not every diagnostic trouble code triggers a dash warning light, “so testing for codes is important both before and after repairs are made, even if the repairs appear to be minor.” Not only Panelbeaters, but all Dealerships, Auto Electricians, Specialists and Automotive Workshops should consider upgrading or adding a comprehensive genuine quality wide coverage diagnostic scanner. LaunchTech NZ have included specific software for the widest coverage of makes and models Air conditioning systems, Transmission, Diesel systems, EV and more. Our Genuine Launch Diagnostic Scan equipment have also local software and various other specialist programs to assist specialists. We have been selling genuine local version Launch diagnostic scan equipment which includes training, assisting and back up support to panel-beaters, mechanics, specialists and dealerships for over ten years and provide direct factory back-up on everything we sell.
LAUNCH NZ NOTICE: We have been selling and supporting genuine Launch Diagnostic Scan tools for more than 10 years and we sell the full range of genuine launch equipment. Full one-year factory warranty with an additional 12 months warranty added by us and all our Scan tools are locally supported. No need to wait weeks with us as most repairs are carried out within 48 hours. We do not apologise to provide a warning notice at the end of our articles we write. Launch Head office appreciate we keep an eye on illegal sales. Many people have been caught out buying overseas regional version online Launch scanners which have either been switched off or cannot be repaired or updated. Some fake / Chinese region launch scanners are bought via illegal sellers using online trade and sale platforms and those running around trying to sell overseas online or fake Launch pretending to sell genuine will be reported to Launch Head office. We can confirm that Launch Head office may switch off any scanner purchased through illegal channels. The last thing you want to do is buy a tool which fails to work as described or find it is a clone and cannot be registered / repaired or supported. Here at Launchnz we are only a phone call away.
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