Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

Key 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 Information

• Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

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 Information

• Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

Show Notes:

Introduction & Sponsor Message

• Sponsored 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 & Mentorship

• Matt 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 Awakenings

• John’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 Sharing

• John’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 Information

• From 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 Speaking

• John’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 2

• Next 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 Training

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 Information

• Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com
• Diagnosing 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/

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:

1. Start with a wiring schematic.
2. Use a scan tool to check module inputs/commands.
3. Stress-test circuits (e.g., load with a headlight for power/ground checks).
4. 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." – Matt

Tools & 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 Information

• Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech

In this episode, Matt dives deep into the world of leadership, drawing an interesting parallel between basketball and the world of auto repair.

In this episode, Matt discusses:

• The significance of March Madness and The Shot—not the Michael Jordan moments you might expect, but the shot in the 1992 NCAA tournament between Duke University and the Kentucky Wildcats.
• Insights into Coach Mike Krzyzewski's (Coach K) leadership style, particularly during high-pressure moments, and how it parallels the leadership needed in running a shop.
• How Coach K's calm, confidence, and ability to empower his players to take ownership in crucial moments played a pivotal role in Duke's success.
• The importance of leadership that encourages autonomy, confidence, and creating an environment where your team can thrive and make decisions that align with your vision.
• A breakdown of Christian Laettner's mindset during the game and how the Duke team overcame a seemingly lost situation with just 2.1 seconds left on the clock.

Matt takes us through the dramatic ending of the game and how Coach K's simple yet powerful leadership moment shaped the outcome, drawing lessons for managers and leaders in the aftermarket industry.

This episode isn't just for basketball fans; it's for anyone looking to inspire leadership and develop a high-performing team. By trusting your people, giving them autonomy, and showing calm, quiet confidence, you can help your team overcome challenges and come out on top.

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 Information

• Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com
• Diagnosing 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.

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 Information

• Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel

Key Highlights:

• Matt reflects on the idea of self-awareness and balance, emphasizing that "everything comes from you" and that we are all part of a larger matrix of experiences and growth.

Vision Conference Recap:

• Matt shares his experience at the Vision Conference, where he faced a challenging drive through a snowstorm and crosswinds to get there.
• He highlights the hands-on training sessions he participated in, including:
• Key Cutting and Programming Class: Co-taught with Andrew Sexton, where attendees got to physically cut keys and program them using a Honda ignition system.
• Pico Training: A full day of hands-on training with Scott Shotton, focusing on practical, car-side diagnostics.
• Tech Talks: Featuring Garrett Jacobson (HP Tuners) and Zeb Beard (Thermal Imaging), both of whom delivered high-energy, informative sessions.

Key Takeaways from Vision:

• HP Tuners: Matt learned new functionalities of the tool, even after using it for over five years. Garrett Jacobson’s class demonstrated how intuitive and powerful the tool can be for diagnostics.
• Thermal Imaging: Zeb Beard emphasized the importance of using thermal imagers regularly, even when it doesn’t seem immediately necessary. His session focused on diesel diagnostics but applied to all vehicles.

Personal Reflections and Connections:

• Matt shares heartfelt moments from the conference, including dinners with industry friends like Dan Baumhardt, Matt Hall, Kevin Looney, and others.
• They reminisced about Harvey Chan, a beloved figure in the industry who passed away too soon, and the impact he had on everyone.
• Matt reflects on the duality of emotions—being sad about losing someone but happy to share stories and memories.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories:

• Matt dives into the importance of understanding the "behind-the-scenes" of how things are created, whether it’s a business, a movie scene, or even a professional wrestling match.
• He shares an iconic wrestling story about Stone Cold Steve Austin and Bret Hart, highlighting how collaboration and trust led to one of the most memorable moments in wrestling history.

Themes of Authenticity and Sharing Knowledge:

• Matt discusses the tendency in the industry to want to feel "special" or to exaggerate success stories.
• He emphasizes the importance of being honest about how things are achieved, whether it’s diagnosing a tough problem or building a successful shop.
• He encourages technicians and shop owners to share their real stories, even if they involve luck or being in the right place at the right time.

Filling Your Own Bucket:

• Matt reflects on the need for self-validation and filling your own "bucket" rather than constantly seeking external validation.
• He stresses the importance of being honest with yourself and others, giving credit where it’s due, and taking pride in your work without...