The role, development, and applications of vehicle diagnostics. Steps in the diagnostic process, fault detection strategies, and fault localization methods. An overview of the electronic and mechatronic systems in modern vehicles from a diagnostic perspective. On-board diagnostic systems, fault codes, and fundamentals of diagnostic communication. Diagnostic testing of sensors and actuators. Diagnostic characteristics of engine management, powertrain, brake, suspension, comfort, and safety systems. Applications of diagnostic tools and software. Interpretation of measured data, live data, and fault symptoms. The role of diagnostics in maintenance, repair, and operation. Familiarization with, connection of, and basic use of diagnostic tools and software. Reading, interpreting, and clearing fault codes. Monitoring and analyzing live data under various operating conditions. Diagnostic testing of the operation of sensors and actuators. Identifying simpler electrical and electronic faults based on measurement results. Performing diagnostic checks on major vehicle systems. Performing fault-finding tasks on actual or training vehicles and demonstration systems. Preparing measurement reports and diagnostic evaluations.
Vehicle Diagnostics (GAJABAN-JARMDIAG-1)
Basic data
Instructors
Course objectives
Course content
Lectures
- Advanced motor and drive chain diagnostics: control unit and peripheral diagnostics - Environmental self-diagnosis "EOBD" monitoring system and on-board diagnostics - Emission cleaning and treatment systems and their diagnostics - Alternative vehicle systems HV diagnostics - Vehicle Periodic Inspection Technology - ADAS systems and their diagnostics
Labs
- Advanced motor and drive chain diagnostics: control unit and peripheral diagnostics - Environmental self-diagnosis "EOBD" monitoring system and on-board diagnostics - Emission cleaning and treatment systems and their diagnostics - Alternative vehicle systems HV diagnostics - Vehicle Periodic Inspection Technology
Acquired competences
Knowledge
Understands the basic concepts, purpose, and role of vehicle diagnostics in the operation, maintenance, and repair of modern vehicles. Understands the diagnostic structure and operating principles of major electronic and mechatronic systems in vehicles, as well as the basic methods of fault detection and localization. They are familiar with the operation of on-board diagnostic systems, the meaning of fault codes, diagnostic connection and communication options, and the areas of application for modern diagnostic tools. They possess basic knowledge of interpreting measurement results, typical fault symptoms, and the steps of the diagnostic process.
Skills
Is able to use basic diagnostic tools and software, read and interpret error codes, and identify simpler vehicle faults. Is able to structure the diagnostic process logically, compare measured and read data, and identify possible causes of faults. Is able to document measurements performed in laboratory and workshop environments, evaluate measurement results, and formulate conclusions in a professional manner. Is able to interpret information from various vehicle systems in a coordinated manner and make basic diagnostic decisions.
Attitude
Strives to carry out troubleshooting processes accurately, systematically, and responsibly. Is open to learning about and applying modern diagnostic technologies, digital tools, and vehicle electronics solutions. Considers reliable data collection, careful analysis, and drawing well-founded technical conclusions to be important. In their work, they adhere to the principles of safe work practices, professionalism, and a quality-oriented approach.
Autonomy and responsibilities
Is able to perform basic diagnostic measurements and troubleshooting tasks under supervision or, to some extent, independently. Takes responsibility for the proper and safe use of diagnostic instruments, as well as for the accurate recording and interpretation of the results obtained. Collaborates with other students in educational, laboratory, and workshop settings to carry out diagnostic tasks. Recognizes the limits of their own professional competence and seeks professional support in cases of more complex faults or uncertain results.
Additional professional competences
Knowledge: During the acquisition of the course, they get acquainted with the special equipment used in vehicles, their use and why it is present in the given vehicle, as well as with the accident prevention regulations of the equipment; Ability: the ability to perform a basic analysis of the disciplines that make up the knowledge of the technical field, formulate the connections synthetically, and perform adequate evaluation activities; Ability to identify routine professional problems, explore and formulate the theoretical and practical background needed to solve them (using practical operations in practice); ability to plan, organize and perform independent learning; creatively use knowledge. Attitude: the ability to make independent, professionally based decisions even in unexpected decision situations. Autonomy and responsibility: the ability to manage the work of the person entrusted to it under the guidance of a workplace manager, the ability to operate machinery and equipment.
Requirements, evaluation and grading
Mid-term study requirements
During the semester, one final examination will be written, which can be corrected or made up once. A satisfactory result in the final examination is a prerequisite for obtaining a satisfactory mid-semester grade. The mid-term mark is the final examination mark.
Generative AI usage
1st position: Use of GAI tools is not permitted for solving assignments. This means GAI tools cannot be used to complete formative or summative assessments, and using GAI constitutes academic misconduct. The use of AI tools for spelling and grammar checking does not fall under this prohibition.
Study aids, laboratory background
Presentation materials, instructor notes, diagnostic tools and software, vehicles or demonstration systems for educational purposes, measuring instruments, factory-specific or universal fault code readers, as well as guides and report templates related to laboratory measurements.
Readings
Compulsory readings
Lecture notes, lab manuals, and electronic course materials provided by the instructor.
Recommended readings
Tom Denton: Advanced Automotive Fault Diagnosis; ISBN-13 : 978-0750669917 Keith McCord: Automotive Diagnostic Systems: Understanding OBD I and OBD II; ISBN1934709069, 9781934709061 Lentin Joseph, Amit Kumar Mondal: Autonomous Driving and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS); ISBN-10: 0367499746