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Automotive Engineering: Onboard Diagnostics
Janets

FREE PDF Certificate | Audio Visual Learning | Tutor Support | 1 Year Access

Summary

Price
£19 inc VAT
Study method
Online
Duration
1 hour · Self-paced
Access to content
Lifetime access
Qualification
No formal qualification
Assessment details
  • Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)/Assignment (included in price) (included in price)
Additional info
  • Tutor is available to students

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Overview

The Automotive Engineering: Onboard Diagnostics course provides an in-depth understanding of the systems, technologies, and protocols that enable fault detection and vehicle performance analysis. As modern vehicles increasingly rely on electronic control units (ECUs) and diagnostic software, the global automotive diagnostics market is projected to surpass £60 billion by 2028, driven by the rapid expansion of electric and hybrid vehicles.

This course is ideal for automotive professionals, mechanics, engineers, and enthusiasts looking to enhance their technical knowledge in diagnostics, maintenance, and repair. With qualified automotive diagnostic technicians in high demand, professionals in this field typically earn between £28,000 and £55,000 per year in the UK.

Learners will gain a strong foundation in OBD systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor interpretation, and emission control technologies. The training equips you with the expertise to identify, interpret, and resolve vehicle issues effectively using modern diagnostic tools and data analysis techniques. Enrol today to boost your technical skills and advance your automotive career.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  • Explain the structure and operation of modern onboard diagnostic systems in automotive engineering.
  • Identify and interpret diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) accurately using OBD tools and scanners.
  • Analyse communication protocols such as CAN, KWP, and ISO standards used in vehicle diagnostics.
  • Evaluate the role of ECUs and sensors in fault detection and system performance monitoring.
  • Apply diagnostic procedures to assess and resolve common engine and emission system issues.
  • Examine emission control systems and their impact on environmental compliance standards.
  • Utilise data logging and live data analysis techniques for vehicle performance monitoring.
  • Assess system faults using structured diagnostic methodologies and technical reasoning.
  • Discuss future trends in onboard diagnostics and automotive system innovations.
  • Demonstrate technical competence in interpreting automotive diagnostic data professionally.

Assessment details

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)/Assignment (included in price)

Included in course price

Course media

Description

This course offers a detailed exploration of how modern onboard diagnostic systems monitor vehicle performance and detect faults. You’ll learn how ECUs communicate with sensors, how to read and interpret diagnostic trouble codes, and how to identify issues within engine, transmission, and emission systems.

Through theoretical lessons, learners will understand how diagnostic data is collected and used to ensure optimal vehicle operation. The course also examines the evolution of OBD systems and their role in meeting environmental and safety standards. By the end of the course, learners will possess the analytical skills to interpret diagnostic data confidently and apply it in various automotive settings.

Automotive Engineering: Onboard Diagnostics Course Curriculum:

Unit 01: Introduction

  • Introduction
  • Brief history & Basic working of OBD

Unit 02: Various Aspects of Onboard diagnostics

  • Onboard diagnostic apps
  • Exhaust gas-Diagnostics
  • APPS on Onboard diagnostics

Unit 03: Various systems

  • Engine -Diagnostics
  • Diagnostics-spark plug
  • Diagnostics- Fuel injection
  • Diagnosis -Lubrication

Method of Assessment

To successfully complete the course, students will have to take an automated multiple-choice exam. This exam will be online and you will need to score 60% or above to pass the course.

After successfully passing the course exam, you will be able to apply for a certificate as proof of your expertise.

Certification

All students who successfully complete the course can instantly download their free e-certificate. You can also purchase a hard copy of the certificate, which will be delivered by post for £9.99.

Who is this course for?

  • Learners passionate about advancing their automotive knowledge and developing strong diagnostic and analytical abilities for technical success.
  • Vehicle technicians seeking to strengthen their understanding of onboard diagnostic systems and data interpretation processes.
  • Engineering students aiming to explore the fundamentals of modern automotive technology and electronic control systems.
  • Professionals interested in pursuing technical roles related to automotive repair, diagnostics, and vehicle system analysis.
  • Enthusiasts who wish to gain expertise in identifying and interpreting vehicle faults using industry-standard diagnostic tools.

Requirements

No prior qualifications are needed for Learners to enrol on this course.

Career path

  • Automotive Diagnostic Technician (£30,000–£55,000)
  • Vehicle Systems Engineer (£35,000–£60,000)
  • Automotive Electronics Specialist (£32,000–£58,000)
  • Maintenance Engineer (£28,000–£52,000)
  • Service Manager (Automotive Workshop) (£38,000–£65,000)
  • Automotive Technical Trainer (£35,000–£60,000)
  • Emissions Compliance Technician (£30,000–£50,000)
  • Automotive Research and Development Engineer (£40,000–£70,000)

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Legal information

This course is advertised on Reed.co.uk by the Course Provider, whose terms and conditions apply. Purchases are made directly from the Course Provider, and as such, content and materials are supplied by the Course Provider directly. Reed is acting as agent and not reseller in relation to this course. Reed's only responsibility is to facilitate your payment for the course. It is your responsibility to review and agree to the Course Provider's terms and conditions and satisfy yourself as to the suitability of the course you intend to purchase. Reed will not have any responsibility for the content of the course and/or associated materials.

FAQs

Study method describes the format in which the course will be delivered. At Reed Courses, courses are delivered in a number of ways, including online courses, where the course content can be accessed online remotely, and classroom courses, where courses are delivered in person at a classroom venue.

CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development. If you work in certain professions or for certain companies, your employer may require you to complete a number of CPD hours or points, per year. You can find a range of CPD courses on Reed Courses, many of which can be completed online.

A regulated qualification is delivered by a learning institution which is regulated by a government body. In England, the government body which regulates courses is Ofqual. Ofqual regulated qualifications sit on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), which can help students understand how different qualifications in different fields compare to each other. The framework also helps students to understand what qualifications they need to progress towards a higher learning goal, such as a university degree or equivalent higher education award.

An endorsed course is a skills based course which has been checked over and approved by an independent awarding body. Endorsed courses are not regulated so do not result in a qualification - however, the student can usually purchase a certificate showing the awarding body's logo if they wish. Certain awarding bodies - such as Quality Licence Scheme and TQUK - have developed endorsement schemes as a way to help students select the best skills based courses for them.
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