Diagnosing complex vehicle issues can be a significant hurdle for auto repair shops. The challenge is amplified when using a scan tool that lacks the necessary functionality, turning diagnosis into a time-consuming bottleneck. Patrick Howard, the owner of Fox Auto Care in Santa Ana, California, shares his experience with the Drivepro Scan Tool from Autologic Diagnostics, highlighting how it has transformed his approach to tackling challenging vehicle diagnostics. After using the DrivePro for a month, Howard emphasizes its robust capabilities and, crucially, the real-time technical support, as indispensable assets in resolving even the most perplexing automotive problems.
One memorable instance that showcased the DrivePro’s value was when a Mercedes ML arrived at Fox Auto Care with an unusual issue that was new to their experienced team.
“It was kind of a strange situation because there were no codes, but it was shifting erratically,” Howard recalls.
Faced with this diagnostic puzzle, Howard’s team turned to Autologic’s DrivePro technical support for guidance. An expert master technician from Autologic remotely accessed the DrivePro scan tool and provided step-by-step instructions to a Fox Auto Care technician on how to perform a transmission relearn procedure.
“With their help, we were able to road test it, relearn the shift adaptations, and fix the customer’s problem within half a day,” Howard states, underscoring the efficiency and expertise brought by the DrivePro support system.
While the DrivePro scan tool offers a direct communication channel, Howard mentions that his technicians prefer receiving support via phone calls. This allows them to simultaneously view the live data on the DrivePro scan tool while communicating with the Autologic technician, facilitating a more collaborative and efficient diagnostic process.
“Having the tech support just a phone call away, ready to assist and guide us through any diagnostics, is truly amazing,” Howard emphasizes. He also praises the quick response time of the Autologic support team, noting that they typically receive assistance within 15 minutes, with a maximum wait time of just 30 minutes in his experience.
Howard specifically recommends the DrivePro scan tool for shops that specialize in European vehicles, including brands like Volkswagen, Mercedes, BMW, and Land Rover.
“We handle about 30 to 40 percent European vehicles, making the DrivePro a must-have for our shop,” Howard explains. “Our previous scan tools simply lacked the functionality required to complete many jobs efficiently. We often had to spend extra time searching for solutions externally. The technical support is the standout selling point of this tool. The support team is genuinely invested in solving problems and consistently available to help. They even follow up to ensure issues are resolved and everything is working correctly – they are truly good people.”
While the DrivePro offers coverage for Domestic and Asian vehicles, Howard points out that its capabilities are currently more comprehensive for European makes.
“Ideally, I would like to see the tool offer OE-level diagnostic capabilities for Domestic and Asian vehicles, similar to its European vehicle diagnostics,” Howard suggests. “The ability to program Domestic and Asian vehicles directly through the DrivePro scan tool would be a fantastic enhancement.”
Setting up the DrivePro scan tool is straightforward, but Howard notes that its interface differs from other commonly used scan tools, which may present a slight learning curve for new users.
“It’s simply a matter of getting accustomed to the navigation and understanding all of its functions,” he says. “This is where the tech support proves invaluable once again. They are there to answer any questions we have and guide us through the system and its features.”
Overall, Fox Auto Care, a busy three-technician, four-bay shop with a significant focus on European vehicles, has found the DrivePro scan tool to be an essential addition.
“It’s a great tool,” Howard concludes. “Every shop should have one, especially if you’re dealing with European cars.”
