What is the Basic Process of Automotive Fault Diagnosis?
4 Answers
Automotive fault diagnosis basic process is the most fundamental diagnostic procedure in automotive fault diagnosis, representing the most general overview and summary of diagnostic content. The basic process of automotive fault diagnosis includes starting from fault symptoms, 1. Through inquiry and test drive: Verify fault symptoms. 2. Analysis and research: Analyze structural principles. 3. Reasoning and hypothesis: Deduce possible causes. 4. Process design: Propose diagnostic steps. 5. Testing and confirmation: Test and confirm fault points. 6. Repair verification: Verify after fault elimination. 7. Finally achieve the purpose of identifying the ultimate cause of the fault.
When the car has issues, I usually start with a thorough inspection: park the vehicle, let the engine cool down, check if any dashboard warning lights are on, listen for unusual sounds, or detect odd smells—such as a loose belt noise or signs of oil leakage. Then, I ask the owner about specific symptoms, like whether the car won’t move or if there are strange noises, which helps narrow down the problem. Next, I manually inspect basic points: engine oil, coolant, tire pressure, and the brake system to ensure everything is normal. If no obvious issues are found, I connect an OBD scanner to read the trouble codes—it quickly pinpoints potential problems, like a faulty engine sensor. The next step involves testing suspected components, such as using a multimeter to check circuit resistance or inspecting ignition coils. Once the cause is confirmed, I proceed with repairs and conduct a test drive to verify everything works properly. Throughout the process, I take it slow, prioritize safety, and keep logs for future prevention. Remember, regular maintenance reduces these troubles, and every diagnosis should follow a systematic step-by-step approach.
I've been fixing cars myself for years. When encountering a fault, I always start with the basics: first recall if there have been any recent changes or long-distance drives, check if any dashboard warning lights are flashing, and listen to whether the exhaust sounds normal or gurgling. Inspect routine spots like battery terminals, coolant level, and the fuse box for any blown fuses. If I have an OBD tool, I plug it in to read the codes, then compare them with online forums or manuals to figure out the issue—there might be hints about wiring faults. Once I've identified the direction, I disconnect the negative battery terminal and use tools like wrenches or screwdrivers to fix the faulty part, such as replacing an air filter or tightening loose pipes. After the repair, I start the car and let it idle for a few minutes, then take a short drive around the neighborhood to ensure everything runs smoothly. The whole process isn't complicated and saves me repair costs. Once it becomes a habit, it gives me peace of mind.
When car trouble arises, my top priority is safety: immediately pull over, turn off the engine, and check for smoke inside the car, flat tires, or fluid leaks. If warning lights appear on the dashboard, quickly note the symptoms—don't panic, as forcing the car to run may worsen the damage. Conduct basic checks like oil level and brake fluid as a minimum. Connect an OBD scanner to read critical fault codes, swiftly isolating issues such as spark plug failure. Test available tools—simple circuit measurements may suffice. If the problem remains unclear, seek professional help instead of taking unnecessary risks. The entire process should be quick and efficient, aiming to minimize danger.
