Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z

• Jeepers Creepers [E184]

  Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingKey Points & Takeaways:The Problem:A 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee (collision repair) came in with blind spot warning and parking aid malfunction lights on.No functionality in either system post-repair.Initial Diagnosis:Verified the concern (instrument cluster lit up with warnings).Used an aftermarket scan tool (Snap-on Ultra) and found:ADAS control module had multiple DTCs for open/short circuits on all radar sensors.Parking aid module had similar codes for ultrasonic sensors.Vehicle was hit in the passenger rear, leading to replacement of the bumper, harness, and rear hatch.Suspected Causes:Blown fuse (common culprit for multiple system failures).Crushed/damaged wiring harness (common after collisions).Module failure due to impact.Testing & Findings:Checked power and ground at the ADAS module—all good.Inspected wiring harness for damage (no visible issues).Critical Clue: Wire colors didn’t match the schematic.Initially dismissed as a common schematic error.Later realized the entire harness was installed backward (left/right sides flipped).The Fix:Flipped the harness and radar modules to their correct positions.All codes cleared except two for the blind spot radars—turned out they were also swapped.After correction, all systems worked perfectly.Lessons Learned:Don’t get stuck in a diagnostic rabbit hole. Good techs pivot when clues don’t add up.Man-made problems can be the trickiest. Always verify previous work (especially after collisions).Wire color discrepancies matter. Even if schematics are often wrong, they can reveal bigger issues."Slow down to speed up." Rushing leads to wasted time; methodical checks save hours.Final Thoughts:Awareness is key. Catch yourself when fixating on one theory.Experience can work against you. Stay open to new clues, even if they conflict with past patterns.Contact InformationEmail Matt: [email protected] the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyThe Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.

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  23:02
• Programming Update [E183]

  Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingShould a shop use factory tools or generic J2534 interfaces for programming?What are the computer hardware considerations for vehicle programming?What are the best ways for technicians to learn more about vehicle programming and improve their skills?Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingNAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.Contact InformationEmail Matt: [email protected] the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyThe Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/

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  29:08
• John Thornton Part 2 [E182]

  Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.Contact InformationEmail Matt: [email protected] the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/The Aftermarket Radio NetworkRemarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open DiscussionDiagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.

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  51:17
• John Thornton Part 1 [E181]

  Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingDiagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z websiteShow Notes:Introduction & Sponsor MessageSponsored by NAPA AutoTech Training – Helping shops turn general technicians into profitable team members.Matt introduces John Thorton, a highly respected instructor and presenter in the automotive industry.Early Days & MentorshipMatt and John reminisce about their first meeting in January 2020 at a training event in Minneapolis.John’s early influence through his Underhood Service Magazine columns, which shaped Matt’s diagnostic approach.Key articles that impacted Matt:Trigger Modes (Auto vs. Normal/Lab)In-Cylinder Pressure Testing (using a Fluke PV-350 transducer)Current Probe Diagnostics (Fluke ADI-110S)Diagnostic AwakeningsJohn’s guidance helped Matt diagnose a shorting fuel injector on a 1987 Chrysler Conquest Turbo, leading to a deeper understanding of inductive kick.Importance of post-repair testing to solidify learning.Documentation & Knowledge SharingJohn’s method of annotating wiring diagrams and keeping physical file cabinets for quick reference.Transition from paper-based documentation to digital tools (e.g., PicoScope’s annotation features).Evolution of Service InformationFrom Chilton/Motor manuals to Mitchell on Demand (disc-based) to modern OEM online portals (Toyota, Chrysler, BMW).The power of hyperlinked wiring diagrams and 3D connector views in OEM service info.Training & Public SpeakingJohn’s philosophy on preparation: Rehearsing presentations multiple times to ensure smooth delivery.Handling technical difficulties (e.g., projector failures) by staying adaptable.Encouraging techs to share knowledge through platforms like Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo.Teaser for Part 2Next episode dives deeper into CAN bus diagnostics, multiair systems, and more training insights.Key Takeaways:Diagnostic growth comes from post-repair analysis and documentation.Service information has evolved dramatically—OEM portals now offer unparalleled detail.Effective training requires relentless preparation and adaptability.Listen to Part 2 next week for more insights!Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingNAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28...

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  53:50
• Mailbag Episode: Multimeters, Electrical Diagnostics and Drivability Tricks [E180]

  Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow dives into listener-submitted questions, covering:Multimeter recommendations (why he prefers insulation testers/meggers over basic DMMs).Electrical diagnostic strategies (schematics, scan tools, and stress-testing circuits).The "Flat Rate Test Drive" (a drivability diagnostic trick for load/PID analysis).Gaming picks (Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster).Scan tool advice for techs doing more drivability work.Timestamps:(00:00) – Intro (02:33) – Multimeter recommendations: Why Matt avoids basic DMMs and prefers:Fluke 1587 or Pico TA467 (insulation testers for EVs/future-proofing).Used Vantage/Vantage Pro (graphing + scope functions).Curien (Bluetooth-enabled multimeter).(11:44) – Electrical diagnostic process:Start with a wiring schematic.Use a scan tool to check module inputs/commands.Stress-test circuits (e.g., load with a headlight for power/ground checks).Leverage relays for centralized testing (control/output sides).(22:48) – Shoutout to trainer Richard Velko.(23:17) – "Flat Rate Test Drive" explained:Monitor PIDs (load, MAF, MAP, O2 sensors) during WOT pulls to isolate drivability issues (fuel vs. restriction).(34:42) – Gaming corner: Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster.(38:53) – Scan tool recommendations for drivability:HP Tuners (budget-friendly, fast data logging).Used Snap-on Solus Edge/Ultra (enhanced OEM data).Shop responsibility (tools should be shop-provided!).Quotes"I don’t buy just a pure multimeter anymore... Get an insulation tester. You’ll need it for EVs/hybrids." – Matt"The ‘Flat Rate Test Drive’ stresses the engine while watching PIDs to split the problem in half." – Matt"For drivability, HP Tuners is my top pick—great data logging without breaking the bank." – MattTools & Resources Mentioned:Multimeters: Fluke 1587, Pico TA467, Vantage Pro, Curien.Diagnostic Tactics: Wiring diagrams, scan tool bi-directionals, current ramping.Games: Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Days Gone Remaster.Scan Tools: HP Tuners, Snap-on Solus Edge, TopDon XTool.Final Thoughts:Matt’s takeaway? Invest in versatile tools (like megohmmeters) and lean on schematics/scan tools to avoid diagnostic rabbit holes.Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.Contact InformationEmail Matt: [email protected] the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel...

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