Routes to Diagnosis

Routes to Diagnosis - One Day (£200 per delegate)

Topics

Diagnostic Strategy Fundamentals: Overview of structured diagnostic methods – Top-down, bottom-up, symptom-based, and fault-tree approaches – Choosing the right method for the fault at hand
Building a Diagnostic Flow: Developing a step-by-step mental map – Linking vehicle symptoms, test results, and system behaviour – Avoiding aimless testing by staying on a structured path
The Psychology of Fault-Finding: Understanding pattern recognition and cognitive bias – Recognising common thinking traps – Using logic and consistency in diagnostic decisions
Using Tools with Purpose: Applying scan tools, multimeters, and scopes intentionally – Asking the right questions of the data – Using tools to confirm, not guess
Creating a Repeatable Process: Standardising your diagnostic routine – Reducing comebacks and improving workshop efficiency – Refining your approach over time
Case Study Analysis: Step-by-step comparison of different strategies – Measuring time, accuracy, and outcome – Lessons learned from real-world faults
Communicating Your Diagnosis: Explaining findings to customers, service teams, and peers – Documenting your process clearly – Supporting your conclusions with evidence

Course Summary

Diagnosis is more than just reading data—it’s a thought process. This course teaches technicians how to build, follow, and communicate clear diagnostic strategies that reduce guesswork, save time, and improve outcomes. Ideal for technicians at all levels who want to develop sharper, more consistent diagnostic thinking in real-world conditions.
It focuses on the psychology of diagnosis and diagnostic approaches which can be used when approaching complex faults with no prescribed methods of detection, interpretation, evaluation or appraisal.
On completion, you will receive a certificate of attendance which can be used towards Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits.

All courses designed and taught exclusively by Graham Stoakes AAE MIMI MSET QTLS

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Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course, however, you should currently be working in the automotive industry as a vehicle technician or similar. The attendance of the other Automotive Testing & Diagnosis courses prior to undertaking this training will reinforce concepts used in diagnostic strategies.

This course is recommended for progression onto further diagnostic training.

This course is a mixture of theory and practical and will require suitable clothing for conducting workshop activities. Safety boots are required for all technical work shop based activities. You will be unable to participate in the course if you do not wear the appropriate PPE.

We reserve the right to exclude a candidate who we suspect is under the influence of alcohol or drugs (the candidate may also need to make alternative arrangements for onward journeys).