The Ten Golden Rules of Diagnostics

The Ten Golden Rules of Diagnostics

Here at TTHQ, we’ve been involved with car diagnostics for over 30 years and have seen most things. We’re here to share our wisdom and learnings to help you get better, further and faster.

We’ve created a list of our top 10 tips to help you win at diagnostics, lift your knowledge and skills to a new level and help you avoid wasting time by getting it wrong on the first go.

Rule 1

Research the job before you start pulling the car to bits. Know what and where to test BEFORE being knee deep in panels. This will save you time and prevent stress.

Rule 2

Service information, fault codes, live data values and TSB’s can all help. But it’s often reading in between the lines is where the answer lies.

Rule 3

Don’t become emotionally invested in diagnostic problems. Diagnostic challenges are solved with logic. Start with a logical approach, and the fault will reveal itself.

Rule 4

Don’t simply fault find – fact find. Use a structured approach to establish the facts. Test the right thing, in the right way, at the right time. And the fault will reveal itself.

Rule 5

Planning is key, so begin with the end in mind. A great plan will adapt as the job unfolds. Don’t over promise at the beginning. There is no such thing as a quick look in diagnostics. 

Rule 6

Because you’ve been ‘given’ an hour, doesn’t mean it will take an hour to find a fault. Be realistic about selling diagnostic services. Under promise and over deliver through performing ‘assessments’ rather than diagnostic plug-ins.

Rule 7

Being distracted by trying to remember everything that you’ve done is not the way to do it. Make a plan, work through it, take notes, record results. This keeps your brain power focussed on fault finding rather than remembering.

Rule 8

Selecting the right car and the right customer is key to succeeding at diagnostics. Nightmare jobs are best avoided at the diagnostic assessment stage. Unless, of course, you have unlimited time, and you want to be a hero…

Rule 9

Diagnostic descisions can be only based on test data. A descision without data is a guess. Do the right tests, in the right way, at the right time, on the right thing and you’ll WIN.

Rule 10

Make a plan. Observe the issue.  Select the things to test. Gather evidence to rule in or rule out suspects. The fault will then reveal itself and the process is executed.

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 17: David Massey – Continuing the Legacy

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Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 16: Darren Darling

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Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 14: James Dillon

Your usual host James Dillon is taking his turn in the hot seat as he is interviewed by HR specialist, previous podcast guest and this episode’s host Jennifer Webb. James delves into what he was like at school, uncovers the roots of his passion for mechanics and...

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 13: Service Advisors with Jay Wheatley

James is joined by previous podcast guest, business coach and mentor, Jay Wheatley from Absolutely Automotive. This time the spotlight is on the pivotal role service advisors play in the automotive industry. Jay has used his extensive experience of working in the...

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 12: Jason Bowden

In this episode, highly successful Diagnostic Specialist Jason Bowden, from Bowden Auto Services in Torbay, joins host James Dillon to talk about the business end of automotive diagnostics. Jason has developed his expert automotive diagnostic services business over...

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 11: Andy Crook

In this episode, James welcomes Andy Crook, a long-time friend and other half of the famous dynamic duo. James and Andy met at Snap-On where they ran training courses and engaged in public speaking events as a pair. Together they discuss Andy's early days in the...

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 10: Jim Lang

James is joined by web expert Jim Lang from Garage Services Online for this episode. The pair dive into the intricacies of running a successful garage business in the digital age. They discuss the importance of having an effective website that not only attracts...

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 7: Andy Savva The Garage Inspector

In this episode, James is delighted to be able to chat with Andy Savva - The Garage Inspector. Andy shares his wide ranging and extensive experience of running a garage business and his mission in helping other garage businesses be the best that they can be. Wherever...

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 8: Alex Lindley

In this episode of The Harmonic Motion Podcast, James Dillon interviews Alex Lindley, Managing Director at Lindleys Autocentres and Director of Garage Hive. They discuss Alex’s journey in the automotive industry, the evolution of Lindleys Autocentres, and the...

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 26: Opinions from Master Technicians

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Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 15: Tina Drayson

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 15: Tina Drayson

Episode 15: Tina Drayson - Managing a Multi-site Garage

Tina Drayson is the operations manager at CCM, manages an award winning, multi-site garage. On this episode, she joins James as they discuss all things garage business management.

CCM is an award-winning group of garages located in the South East of England. With her background in data statistics, Tina started at the company in accounting and bookkeeping. Her role at CCM expanded organically over the years until she reached the pinnacle – co-ownership. Now, Tina is the Operations Manager for all branches of the company.

James and Tina share invaluable tips about people management and navigating the financial landscape, they delve into decision-making dilemmas and the essence of effective leadership.

Key chapters and takeaways

  • Tina’s Background and Career Path
    [00:02:05 – 00:04:55]
  • Mentorship and Personal Development as a Business Owner
    [00:05:20 – 00:09:16]
  • Transition Back to the Workforce After Family Leave
    [00:07:11 – 00:09:16]
  • Work-Life Balance and Flexible Workplace Culture
    [00:09:16 – 00:12:17]
  • Challenges of Managing Multi-Site Operations
    [00:24:15 – 00:26:38]
  • Making Data-Driven Decisions
    [00:27:01 – 00:29:02]
  • Strategies for Reducing Business Friction and Streamlining Operations
    [00:39:15 – 00:41:18]
  • Setting Effective Labor Rates and Maintaining Profitablility
    [00:51:45 – 00:56:04]

More about Tina Drayson & CCM

 

Follow their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccmgarage1

Check out their website: https://ccmhelp.co.uk/

Get in touch: https://ccmhelp.co.uk/contact/

Get Involved

 

Are you loving the podcast?

Find your next episode: https://techtopics.co.uk/harmonic-motion-podcast/

Join the Facebook group to get behind the scenes action, previews of unreleased episodes and join discussion about topics from the episodes.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/549573740317836/

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 6: Jennifer Webb HR Vitals

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 6: Jennifer Webb HR Vitals

Episode 6: Jennifer Web HR Vitals

Jennifer Webb is the owner of HR Vitals, an automotive aftermarket HR specialist consultantcy. She and her team offer critical HR support and comprehensive services to independent garages throughout the UK.

This episode is tailored specifically for small automotive business owners looking to build a strong, motivated team. James and Jen dive into practical HR strategies that can transform how garage owners manage their teams, address staffing challenges, and create a supportive workplace culture.

Jennifer brings her expertise in people management and gives key advice to garage business owners on how HR can improve employee retention, business operations and profitability.

Key chapters and takeaways

  • Jennifer’s Journey to HR and People Management
    [00:01:29]

  • Unique Challenges in the Automotive Industry
    [00:10:50]

  • Team Profiling Learning Preferences and Communication Styles
    [00:14:31 – 00:19:05]

  • Building Trust Through One-on-One Meetings
    [00:39:08]

  • Technician Shortage and Retention Strategies
    [00:45:18]

  • Supporting Mental Health and Self-Care in the Workplace
    [00:14:31]

  • Training Needs Analysis and Development Plans
    [01:14:04]

  • Leadership and Self-Awareness for Business Owners
    [01:22:09]

 

More about HR Vitals

 

Follow their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hrvitals

Check out their website: https://hrvitals.co.uk/

Get in touch: https://hrvitals.co.uk/contact/

Get Involved

 

Are you loving the podcast?

Find your next episode: https://techtopics.co.uk/harmonic-motion-podcast/

Join the Facebook group to get behind the scenes action, previews of unreleased episodes and join discussion about topics from the episodes.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/549573740317836/

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 5: Mick Shaikly Multi-Award Winning Garage Owner

Harmonic Motion Podcast Episode 5: Mick Shaikly Multi-Award Winning Garage Owner

Episode 5: Mick Shaikly - Multi-Award Winning Garage Owner

In this episode of the Harmonic Motion Podcast, James Dillon chats with Mick Shaikly, the multi-award-winning owner of Shaikly Motor Group, based near Colchester, UK. Mick shares his journey from banking to expanding his father’s garage business, highlighting the strategic decisions and challenges faced along the way.

James and Mick delve into the origins of the Shaikly Motor Group, which started with a single ramp and has grown into a successful multi-site operation. Mick’s expertise in running a top-notch garage is evident from his recent wins in the large and multi-site garage categories at the Independent Garage Association Awards and Aftermarket Magazine’s Top Garage Competition. These accolades reflect Mick’s commitment to quality service, continuous training, and fostering a supportive work environment within Team Shaikly.

The discussion also covers the importance of staying updated with automotive technology, the value of employee development, and the unique dynamics of working with family members. Mick’s story is a testament to his knowledge and the positive culture he cultivates, driving his team to excel and deliver exceptional customer service.

Key chapters and takeaways

  • Early Career and Entry into the Family Business
    [00:01:08]
  • Customer Service Ethos and Reputation
    [00:02:09]
  • Growth and Expansion of the Garage
    [00:03:50]
  • Financial Sacrifices and Risk-Taking in Business Expansion
    [00:06:06]
  • Challenges with Warranty Companies and Parts Selection
    [00:12:27]
  • Managing Multi-Site Operations and Systemization
    [00:18:00]
  • The Importance of Consistent Communication and Team Training
    [00:18:44]
  • Attracting and Retaining Employees with Growth Opportunities
    [00:31:08]
  • Balancing Family Relationships and Business Decisions
    [00:42:17]
  • Setting Boundaries Between Work and Home
    [00:43:05]
  • Advice for Other Garage Owners Considering Award Competitions
    [00:53:15]
  • The Value of Business Values and Staying True to One’s Vision
    [00:56:32]

        More about Mick Shaikly & Shaikly Motor Company

         

        Follow their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BCSShaiklyMotorCompany

        Check out their website: https://shaiklymotorcompany.co.uk/

        Get in touch: https://shaiklymotorcompany.co.uk/contact-us/

        Get Involved

         

        Are you loving the podcast?

        Find your next episode: https://techtopics.co.uk/harmonic-motion-podcast/

        Join the Facebook group to get behind the scenes action, previews of unreleased episodes and join discussion about topics from the episodes.

        https://www.facebook.com/groups/549573740317836/