On car diagnostics can be carried out using a variety of specialised equipment, which is listed below:
Dealer Level Diagnostic Tools:
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VAS 5052A – VAG GROUP Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, Skoda |
This tool, used by the dealers, allows the most comprehensive diagnostics and ECU programming/re-programming on VAG vehicles. Linked to the factory via a secure internet connection we are able to programme keys and immobilisers on VAG cra and light commercials. Its guided functions and fault finding faciliities allo us to efficiently diagnose faults on the numerous control modules on the VAG range. |
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TECH 2 GM, Vauxhall, Opel, SAAB, Suzuki, Isuzu
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Taking over from Tech 1 as the primary diagnostic tool for GM Dealers in 1996/7. the TECH 2, along with TIS, allows diagnostic and update capability on this wide range of vehicles up to approximately 2008/9, when TECH 3 (an internet based tool) took over. The comprehensive coverage of the TECH 2 was enhanced with the CANdi (Controller Area Network diagnostics) module with the advent of the Vectra C/Signum. This allows us full diagnostics on the multiple control systems used on these later generation Vauxhall/Opels and indeed SAABs. |
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FORD / MAZDA IDS
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The IDS or Intergrated Diagnostic Software enables us, via an interface (VCM shown to the left) between our PC and the vehicles diagnostic plug to communicate, diagnose and program (including keys and security systems) all the modules and control units of the Ford / Mazda range. |
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Peugeot Planet (PPS)
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The Peugeot Planet Software enables us, via an interface (shown to the left) between our PC and the vehicles diagnostic plug to communicate, diagnose and program (including keys and security systems) all the modules and control units of the Peugeot range. |
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Citroen Lexia
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The Citroen Lexia Software (by Actia) enables us, via an interface (shown to the left) between our PC and the vehicles diagnostic plug to communicate, diagnose and program (including keys and security systems) all the modules and control units of the Citroen range. |
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Jaguar Diagnostics Software
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The Jaguar Diagnostic Software enables us, via an interface (shown to the left) between our PC and the vehicles diagnostic plug to communicate, diagnose and program (including keys and security systems) all the modules and control units of the Jaguar range. |
Generic Diagnostic Tools
Don't be under the illusion that any of the Generic diagnostic tools currently on the market are able to produce the depth of diagnostic and programming capabilities of manufacturers equipment. Most of the generic tools have their strengths, one of the most important, we think, is good support and constant updating to keep up with the rapidly changing technology used in the modern motor vehicle.
We use a range of these tools to give us the widest possible coverage of the vehicle parts, and rarely come across a model that leaves us with little or no diagnostic capability.
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Autodiagnos This diagnostic tester originally from Sweden was the dealer tool for Volvo up to 1999 model year.Since its departure from that dealer network, it has gone from strength to strength as a generic tester with a very broad and in depth coverage, two important factors when meeting customer requirements for accurate diagnosis of vehicle problems, as we endeavour to do.
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A very user friendly diagnostic tester that does what it can do very well. This often fills any gaps in the Autodiagnos applications or gives alternative viewing and processing data. Its movie capture feature can be particularly useful when trying to capture faults that occur intermittently or sporadically. As with the Autodiagnos support is very good from a company that has been making tools for the automotive trade since the early 1900's. |
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Bosch KTS 520 This laptop based diagnostics tester is particularly good with diesel systems of which Bosch is a major supplier to the manufacturers. Coupled with the ESItronic information system, fault finding and parts application are covered comprehensively, for a wide range of manufacturers and models. |
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JAK 5900 Japanese and Korean Scan Tool Specifically for diagnosing faults on Japanese and Korean vehicles, and being made in Korea, its efficient communication with the modules covered, makes it an easy and accurate tester to us. |
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Bosch KTS 300 Although dated, this was the Porsche dealer tester until the mid to late nineties, nicknamed the hammer because of its distinct shape, it helps enable us to maintain maximum diagnostic ability on older vehicles. Many early injection systems appear on 70s and 80s classics, which are becoming vintage i.e over 25 years old. We have also retained and still use out Autodiagnose parallel diagnostic testing equipment, probably the most accurate and useful diagnostic tested for the early engine management systems and ABS systems that had little or no self diagnostic ability. With our extensive knowledge and experience of carburrettors and conventional ignition systems, also not forgetting out rolling road facility, we are often recommended by trade and retail customers for out expertise in sorting out tuning and running issues on older and now less common vehicles. |
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Magnetti Marelli Check Up Though we rarely have need of this 80s through early 90s tester it does allow very advanced diagnostics, for the time, on Fiat, Lancia and some Alfa models. The Weber injection systems fitted to these vehicles can be thoroughly tested and diagnosed with the aid of this tool. |
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Pico ScopeThis PC based oscilloscope is arguable the best on the market, being both comprehensive in its test ability and easy to use, making it essential in accurately confirming faults indicated by an ECU. The automotive friendly set up means that an electrical 'picture' of the operation of a vehicle electrical circuit, suspected of being faulty, can be analysed and monitored for 'glitches' or incorrect function. This helps to make accurate and therefore economical diagnosis of sometime elusive faults more likely. |
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- Crypton Engine Analyser..
SST1500 Engine Analyser
Gas Analysers 
RAM XII Rolling Road-computer linked
-Breakout box
- Plus a wide range of other test equipment
In connection with another local workshop we also have access to the Land Rover T4,Lucas Laser 2000 & 1500, VAG-COM and an ASNU injector tester/cleaner. Plus air conditioning testing/recharging.
Occasionally, we have to manufacture our own test equipment to overcome problems. Pictured is a 40-pin breakout box (including serial diagnostic plug) that we had to make in order to diagnose a problem on a Morgan.











