Basic Electrical Diagnostic's

When it comes to engine performance issues such as a check engine light or some body electrical issue, there is always an easy way to troubleshoot and a wasteful way to diagnose. From my personal experience, its always best to not guess but test first. The following are some basic routines that are very helpful and important.

• Do you have a complete understanding of how the particular component is supposed to function?
• Always use the correct wiring diagram to understand the layout of the system/component.
• Verify proper voltage supply to component, control unit or fuses, always check with a Digital volt ohm meter (DVOM).
• Inspect all relevant electrical connections, ground points, check for Voltage Drop.
• The use of a Scan tool is invaluable to diagnose and test.
• Always check for fault codes and reference any technical information available such as Technical service bulletins.
• When replacing a part, always use a quality OEM spec part, as some aftermarket components can make new problems or not fix the issue at all.

These are just some basic things but we can get more technical later on specific issues on the various Porsche models later.

Well this is my first ever Blog post, here it goes. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work on these awesome cars day in and day out. That being said, I wish I could afford one to take home. Some day I hope.

My passion is everything that has to do with the technical aspects of Porsche's Engine management technology and Body electronics systems. It's so fascinating to see how electronics have taken over the Carrera's. I can only imagine how an owner must feel when his car is not healthy, since I am on the other side of the transactions I'm insulated from the human side of things. I've been recently thinking about writing a book so that an owner can be able to diagnose and repair his 996-997 or 9pa or Boxster. I personally think that if someone can read about how a particular system is designed to work and has the information as to what is normal or not, well if he or she is inclined to take on a little challenge, technical issues can be resolved and repaired.

The new 997 Gen. II is such a technological marvel when it comes to the new engines and DFI system. Some time in the future I'd like to start posting little articles on how the various engine management systems function.