Automotive Diagnostic Podcast

334: Why Do Nissan/Infiniti Coils Melt Down?

This week on the show I share an issue that I've seen on several Nissan/ Infiniti vehicles were the ignition coils repeatably melt down, causing a no start. We'll address the root cause and speculate a little on the "why" behind this brand specific fault. See this episode for my first discussion on secondary windings that are wired to the positive side of the electrical system. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E334 Jan 12, 2026 26 min 20 annotations

333: Reflecting on 2025 & Looking Forward To 2026

This week on the show I share my thoughts as we wrap 2025, and look forward to the next year. Last year this time I recorded an episode on goal setting, and know I have a whole year of data to look back on to see what went right, what went wrong, and how to adjust for the future. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E333 Jan 04, 2026 27 min

332: Parasitic Draws Are Just Network Problems In Disguise

Today on the show I share my thoughts on diagnosing modern parasitic draw concerns and how so many seem to shift/overlap into network diagnostics. So much so that I have shifted my process and mindset when diagnosing them. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E332 Dec 21, 2025 30 min 5 annotations

331: Gratitude for 2025 With Tomi Oliva

Tomi and I wrap up 2025 talking about what he's grateful for this year and what drives him in the future!Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E331 Dec 15, 2025 94 min 3 annotations

330: And All Through The Shop, Not A Creature Was Stirring... Expect For This Hungry Mouse

This week on the show I share an interesting issue on a 2019 Toyota Corolla where the HVAC controls stay operational after the key is left on, and also how rodents keep us on our toes by creating unique problems. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E330 Dec 08, 2025 32 min 3 annotations

329: Ford Programming Update

Ford programming software (IDS/FDRS/FJDS) recently underwent a change in the method of subscription and access. What's the updated cost? What changed about the access? What challenges have we faced during this transition? Listen to find out

E329 Nov 30, 2025 21 min

328: Why Won't This F@%$'n Key Program?! Vol 2

Round 2 of why won't this F@%$'n key program?! I did an episode a year ago about attempts programming keys and the challenges we face doing mobile. Today I share 2 more vehicles that we dealt with recently- A 2017 Toyota Camry and a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. Both had pre-existing issues that presented no issues to the customer, but presented major obstacles for us when attempting to program keys. Vol 1- https://autodiagpodcast.com/2024/11/24/283-why-wont-this-f-key-program/Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E328 Nov 23, 2025 39 min 2 annotations

327: Strategic Part Replacement

Today on the show I share a thought process that I've been adding into my diagnostic decision making. We weigh the value of any test method we perform- How much time/effort/cost does a test require? How much does it tell me/how many things does it eliminate? When faced with a time consuming, difficult, (and often intermittent) diagnostic challenge, should we consider that a part replacement is the cheapest AND most effective test that we could perform? Is this the best value for the customer while at the same time freeing up our time for more productive work???Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E327 Nov 17, 2025 37 min 2 annotations

326: Matthew Elder

Matthew Elder joins Tomi and I on the show this week. Matthew is a technician out of Texas, He is just beginning his path in the automotive diagnostic world. We'll share advice for being successful, Tooling options, & finding a good shop. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E326 Nov 10, 2025 118 min 6 annotations

325: Not Charging, No Power Steering, Stalling, & No Codes... This Sounds Familiar

This week on the show I share a case study on a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. Not charging, no power steering, idle surging, stalling at idle, no heated seats or rear defrost... All this and NO codes anywhere. A strange problem for sure, but it seems oddly familiar to a vehicle I diagnosed back in 2020. See the link below if you want to check that one out. https://autodiagpodcast.com/2020/07/06/28-everyone-can-use-a-silver-bullet-once-in-awhile/Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E325 Nov 01, 2025 31 min 2 annotations

324: Did You Try Unplugging It & Plugging It Back In?

We often deal with strange control module issues- codes, warning lights, communication faults, or reduced functions. While the causes are numerous for each individual situation, one thing that may "fix" the issue is a battery disconnect or capacitive discharge. I'll share 3 vehicles today where a CAP discharge was the fix for strange problems. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E324 Oct 25, 2025 29 min 2 annotations

323: How To Turn $6 into $10,000 (I Know, That's Click-Bait)

For real though, I'll share my favorite 6 dollar diagnostic tool that can make you a ton of money if you understand electrical fundamentals. I'll cover why I like it so much in day-to-day diagnostics and some lesser known uses as well. Listen to find out what it is... Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E323 Oct 21, 2025 26 min 1 annotation

322: Ford As-Built Challenges

This week on the show I share some struggles with Ford module programming, specifically with the as-built data from Ford's server being incorrect and what you can do to overcome it!Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E322 Oct 13, 2025 28 min 4 annotations

321: The Value Of Asking The Right Question The Right Way

This week on the show I expand on the topic of utilizing LLM's and AI within automotive diagnostics after conversations with people based on last weeks episode. I talk about the value of prompting (asking the right question the right way) and also how being an expert in a particular topic makes the utility of these tools significantly better. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E321 Oct 06, 2025 39 min 2 annotations

320: How I'm Using AI Tools In My Business Right Now

Today on the show I share my current thoughts on AI and LLM usage in the automotive repair space as of September 2025. Where are these tools most useful for me? What do you need to know to make the most out of them? What are some of the potential pitfalls? Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E320 Sep 29, 2025 36 min

319: Module to Module Communication Faults

We talk a lot about networking and communication faults on this show, but today's focus is when 2 modules share info between themselves and not the scan tool, but a problem exists within in that communication. How do we determine if it's a network, software, module, or input issue? Listen to get some tips and tricks from real cars that we've seen recently. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/

E319 Sep 21, 2025 38 min 3 annotations

318: Jeep/Chrysler 9-Speed Transmission Programming

Today on the show I share some tips on programming ZF 9-speed TCMs/Transmissions after replacement in Jeep and Chrysler vehicles. We'll touch briefly on the usage in Honda, Acura, & JLR vehicles as well. I'll describe the various scenarios you can run into when programming these modules including when used parts are installed/mixed in with OG. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E318 Sep 15, 2025 31 min 6 annotations

317: Brendan Sorensen

Brendan Sorensen joins Tomi and I on the show this week. Brendan is from Brisbane, Australia. He works for TAT- The Automotive Technician, a network of technicians sharing knowledge, information and experience. We chat about why Tim-Tams are Tomi's new favorite food, AI in automotive, and more. Check out their website below-https://www.tat.net.au/Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E317 Sep 12, 2025 111 min 3 annotations

316: Wrong Part, Wrong Keys

This week on the show I share challenges with incorrect control modules and keys when doing mobile programming. I'll share some tips to finding the correct part numbers and if we can determine whether the used module will work or not. I'll also share a brief case study on a 2010 Prius that won't go into park. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E316 Sep 01, 2025 40 min 2 annotations

315: Clayton Olive & Vasko Serovski

Vasko and Clayton Join Tomi and I this week all the way from Australia! We chat about what's going on in automotive on that side of the planet and discuss Tomi's trip. PS- I'm out of town and didn't bring a mic to record the intro/outro!

E315 Aug 24, 2025 134 min 13 annotations

314: Crank-Start-Stall

Expanding on the topic from last week's episode on tips for determining if a vehicle is immobilized or not, this week I touch on the car exhibiting a crank-start-stall symptom. While an immobilizer system CAN cause this in some vehicles, there are several other possibilities as well, and today I'll share my thought process on working through this type of problem. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E314 Aug 18, 2025 31 min 4 annotations

313: Is This Vehicle Immobilized Or Not?

Quite often we get called into shops for a vehicle that does not start or starts but does not continue to run and it's a perceived immobilizer issue. Sometimes it is immobilized for various reasons, but frequently, there is no actual issue in the immobilizer system, only a lack of understanding how it works normally. Today I share some helpful tips for identifying where you problem is and if the Immo system is active or not. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E313 Aug 11, 2025 29 min

312: Mario Rojas, Family, Faith, & Taking a Step Back

This week on the show Mario Rojas of Super Mario Diagnostics joins us to share his personal journey of taking a step back from the spotlight of the automotive world to focus on his family and his faith. This is an open and honest conversation about challenges that many people in our industry face. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E312 Aug 03, 2025 98 min

311: CAN BUS Diagnostic Tips

This week on the show I share some key diagnstic tips on diagnosing CAN bus faults! So much of our diagnostic work centers around communicaiton faults, and we've developed an efficant way to get to the source of the problem quickly. Join me to learn how to do the same!Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E311 Jul 27, 2025 41 min

310: Andre McDonald With Blue Origin

Andre McDonald joins me on the show today to share his path from automotive technician to working for the rocket compony Blue Origin. We talk about the struggles and challenges of dealer life and the transferable skills gained in the automotive world. Website- https://autodiagpodcast.com/Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/223994012068320/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@automotivediagnosticpodcas8832Email- [email protected] make sure to check out our sponsors!SJ Auto Solutions- https://sjautosolutions.com/Automotive Seminars- https://automotiveseminars.com/L1 Automotive Training- https://www.l1training.com/Autorescue tools- https://autorescuetools.com/

E310 Jul 21, 2025 94 min