Summary
A September North American survey of 3,000 participants by TOPDON US finds that technicians’ top hurdle is limited OE data access, with 73% citing it as their biggest challenge. Another 67% say vehicle network and communication systems are the most difficult to diagnose, highlighting how software-driven platforms are reshaping repair workflows. Respondents stress that constraints stem from data and digital access—not lack of skill—especially around EV and ADAS systems.
Key statistics
- 73%: Limited Original Equipment (OE) data access is the top challenge.
- 67%: Vehicle network/communication systems are hardest to diagnose.
- 39%: EV-related issues (battery packs, inverters, isolation faults) are pain points.
- 33%: ADAS systems are difficult to address.
- 68%: Want deeper, OEM-level diagnostics and coverage.
- 46%: Want access to wiring diagrams and guided repair information.
- 45%: Want faster scan speeds to handle growing module communication.
- Learning sources: 77% rely on YouTube; 57% use manufacturer websites.
Implications for dealerships
The article reports that persistent diagnostic hurdles risk longer cycle times, misdiagnoses, and repeat visits—potentially hurting fixed-ops throughput, CSI, and service profitability. These are characterized as reported impacts and projections, not proven causal findings.
What technicians say they need
- OEM-level data access, diagnostics, and broader coverage.
- Authoritative wiring diagrams, guided workflows, and repair procedures.
- Faster scan communication to reduce per-vehicle diagnostic time.
- Streamlined access through security gateways and digital permissions.
Training and information trends
Technicians favor practical, step-by-step content: most turn to YouTube for quick learning and to OEM portals for authoritative information, underscoring the need for accessible, up-to-date guidance.
Recommended actions for service departments
- Secure comprehensive OEM data access and tool authorizations across brands.
- Invest in faster, broader-coverage scan tools and maintain current software.
- Provide targeted training on high-voltage EV systems and ADAS calibration.
- Ensure easy access to current wiring diagrams and guided repair content.
- Allocate time for ongoing learning; reinforce standard diagnostic workflows.
- Track cycle time, comeback rates, and first-time-fix to prioritize improvements.
Methodology and limitations
The vendor-run survey polled 3,000 participants across North America in September. Respondents included professional technicians and DIYers; detailed breakouts were not provided. Among pros, 51% reported ASE certification. Mixed sample and lack of subgroup analysis may affect generalizability.
Bottom line
Veteran technician experience must be paired with current OEM-level information and faster digital tools. According to the article, dealerships that invest in access, tooling, and training can turn late-model complexity into an advantage, while those that don’t risk downtime, lost revenue, and weaker loyalty.
