Old timer vs modern diagnostics debate got me thinking

I had a conversation at the TA in Flagstaff last week with a guy who's been turning wrenches since the 70s. He swears by the old school methods like using a stethoscope and timing light instead of plugging in a laptop. I told him I get results faster with my scanner and live data. He said, "You're just reading codes, not understanding the engine." That actually hit me because half the time I'm swapping parts based on what the computer says, not what I feel or hear. But on the other hand, these new engines are so computer controlled that you kind of need the digital stuff. So I'm wondering, which side do you guys lean on when a truck comes in with a weird driveability issue?

2 comments

2 Comments

nina_johnson867d ago

I had the exact same talk with my uncle who ran a shop in Phoenix for 30 years. He showed me how a dirty injector can give you a lean code when really it's just a vacuum leak at the intake gasket, something a scanner alone will miss. I still use my scan tool for basic diagnostics but I've started listening more to the engine and checking things like fuel trims and live data before tossing parts at it. Old school feel for the problem plus the computer data together is the best combo in my book.

jennifer9656d ago

Made the same mistake myself last month @nina_johnson86. Spent $200 on a new MAF sensor before realizing it was just a loose hose clamp. Lesson learned the hard way.