Technical 19 unaffected. Every observation helps build a clearer picture of the fault. Alongside the function test, technicians should carry out a careful visual inspection of the vehicle. Signs of water ingress, damaged wiring, corrosion, loose connectors, aftermarket modifications, fluid contamination, and physical damage can all provide valuable evidence. Experienced technicians also learn to engage all of their senses during this stage. An unusual noise, an abnormal vibration, a burnt smell, or signs of moisture inside the vehicle may all point towards the conditions that contributed to the fault. The more evidence collected during this stage, the easier it becomes to identify patterns, establish direction, and build an effective diagnostic plan. Fault codes are evidence, not answers One of the most common mistakes in modern workshops is treating fault codes as diagnoses. A fault code simply indicates that a control module has detected something outside of its expected operating parameters. It does not automatically identify the failed component. Yet many technicians still fall into the trap of reading a fault code and immediately replacing the part it names. Professional diagnostics requires a different mindset. Fault codes, freeze-frame data, event histories, live data values, and network information are all forms of evidence. They help build a picture of what the vehicle is experiencing, but they should never be viewed as the final answer. Another common mistake is clearing fault codes too early. Once evidence has been erased, it may never be recoverable. Freeze-frame data that could have identified operating conditions at the moment of failure may be lost forever. Define the problem The purpose of the ‘Find evidence’ stage is simple: accurately define the problem. Many diagnostic failures occur because technicians attempt to solve a fault they have not fully understood. If the initial complaint is poorly defined, every stage that follows becomes more difficult. The technicians who consistently solve difficult faults are rarely the ones who rush into testing first. They are the ones who gather the best information. They ask better questions. They observe more carefully. They preserve evidence. They build a complete picture before making decisions. In the next article, we’ll explore the second stage of the FIXDIT process: ‘Inspect evidence’. This is where technicians begin analysing the information they have gathered, identifying patterns, eliminating distractions, and turning evidence into a logical diagnostic direction. To download a copy of the FIXDIT guide, and explore the framework in more detail, simply scan the QR code or follow the link below. tinyurl.com/FIXDIT EXCELLENCE ENGINEERED FOR We bring premium OE to the aftermarket At BILSTEIN, we are proud to be one of the leading shock absorber manufacturers for premium automotive brands and the aftermarket. Cutting-edge valve technologies and damping systems, ranging from active to passive, guarantee unrivaled top performance and reliability. Our above-OE quality standards elevate the trust of OEMs, distributors, and workshops worldwide. We ensure the ultimate driving experience to maximize customer satisfaction. Scan for more Explore BILSTEIN’s expertise and innovative solutions now!
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