The Garage 354

DIAGNOSTICS
particularly when approached
for the first time. However,
Delphi provides free e-learning
diagnostic courses for
software licence holders.
“These systems are
complex,” said Luke. “So we
aim to provide a complete
solution to workshop
technicians. The relationship
doesn’t stop when they buy
the diagnostic tool, it’s really
the starting point and we’re
seeing growing uptake over
time on the Delphi Academy
e-learning platform where
technicians can check or
improve their knowledge at
any time.”
By expanding their
knowledge and their diagnostic
capability, independent
garages can provide the same
level of service as a franchised
dealer – turning a challenge
into an opportunity.
Delphi aims to increase
diagnostics understanding
Delphi believes many independent garages are
still unsure of the diagnostics capabilities they
need for newer generation cars and of the
technologies they will encounter.
Delphi’s OBD diagnostics offering is built around the DS180
BlueTech vehicle communication interface (VCI). It’s usually
supplied in a ‘Car Kit’ including a high specification tablet as
well as the USB hub and cable needed to support J2534 ‘Pass-
Thru’.
Whilst many products connect via the car OBD port, the
levels of access and functionality they offer garages vary
hugely. Delphi says these differences are due to a host of
factors including the software capabilities and vehicle coverage
– as well as ability to legitimately interface with third party
vehicle manufacturer systems.
“The BlueTech VCI can help garages in the long term,” said
Marco Lagomarsini, EMEA Commercial Lead for Workshop
Solutions at Delphi Technologies Aftermarket. “Those thinking
further ahead appreciate how we can future-proof business.”
Pass-Thru is essential to access full diagnostics functionality,
specifically updating (or ‘flashing’) ECUs. The BlueTech DS180
enables garages to simply plug in, access VM portals, download
software and make updates.
“The aim is to make it all as seamless as possible,” said
Marco. “As well as supporting Pass-Thru we also make security
gateways simpler and quicker to navigate.”
Security gateways serve an entirely different purpose.
They exist to restrict and track who is accessing car ECUs for
safety-related operations, aiming to protect cars and drivers.
Historically, separate VM gateways have been time consuming
to register with, pay for and use.
Delphi’s ‘integrated solution’ results from the global
manufacturer’s agreement of commercial terms with a growing
list of VMs and groups including FCA, VAG and Mercedes Benz /
Smart. Delphi then implements the technical solutions to streamline
connectivity so licenced BlueTech users don’t have to log in to or
register with individual VM portals.
“The process seems very simple because we’ve done a lot of
complex work in the background to save technicians time,” said
Marco.
The DS180 BlueTech VCI sits firmly within the top tier of OE-level
diagnostics solutions available to garages according to Delphi. It
already supports key communications protocols like DoIP (used by
Volvo and JLR) and CAN FD (Flexible Data-Rate) – a fast protocol
currently used in high-end vehicles that will become more widely
adopted in future.
“Many technicians are nervous,” said Marco. “Pass-Thru can be
risky and you need to know what you’re doing so that’s why we’ve
developed specific training.”
Delphi’s BlueTech licence can be purchased for anywhere from 1
to 5 years, with reduced rates for longer terms. It includes not only
hardware warranty but also free access to the extensive diagnostic
e-learning content on Delphi Academy. There’s training modules
available on running procedures as well as Pass-Thru and security
gateways too.
Garages can find out more at https://www.delphiautoparts.com/
en-gb/diagnostics-test-equipment.
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