What are the basic methods for automotive fault diagnosis?
3 Answers
Basic methods for automotive fault diagnosis are as follows: 1. Inquire the user: the time when the fault occurred, the phenomenon, the situation at that time, the cause of the fault, and whether it has been repaired or disassembled; 2. Preliminary determination of the fault range and location; 3. Retrieve the fault code and identify the fault content; 4. Perform repairs according to the fault range indicated by the fault code, paying special attention to whether the connector is loose or detached, and whether the wire connection is correct; 5. After the repair is completed, verify whether the fault has indeed been eliminated; 6. If the fault code cannot be retrieved, or if the fault content cannot be identified after retrieval, then roughly determine the fault range based on the fault phenomenon, and use the method of checking the working performance of each component one by one to eliminate the fault.
Hey, I've figured out some diagnostic methods during daily car use. The basic steps include first observing phenomena, such as whether the engine has abnormal vibrations or if warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard; then listening for sounds, as unusual noises often indicate the problem; smelling is also crucial, as a burnt smell might point to wiring issues; followed by manual checks, like feeling the temperature of the exhaust pipe or battery. Common tests include replacing a fuse to see if it fixes the issue or using a mobile app to connect to the car's computer to read fault codes. Regular maintenance is essential—weekly checks of tire pressure and oil levels can help detect problems early and prevent breakdowns. These little tricks save both hassle and money.
From my car repair experience, modern vehicle diagnostics rely more on tools for accuracy. Start by scanning for trouble codes with an OBD scanner—it precisely pinpoints electronic system issues. Then use a multimeter to measure circuit resistance and voltage, checking for shorts or open circuits. If mechanical problems are suspected, perform pressure tests like on tires or the cooling system. Don't forget to check for loose battery terminals or cloudy/discolored fluids. Trying simple fixes such as cycling the ignition key can often resolve minor issues—safety first, after all.
