Digital Inspection
Stay Informed with Detailed Digital Inspections
Technological advancements in the automotive space are not just limited to innovations in vehicles but also extend to the tools and processes used by technicians. One such advancement is the use of digital inspections.
A digital inspection uses a tablet or smartphone with an app or software designed specifically for vehicle inspections. The technician can take photos and videos and make notes of issues or potential problems found during the inspection. They can also combine this information into a detailed report.
At Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, we conduct digital inspections for vehicles of all sizes and makes. Our inspection covers the engine and mechanical components, exterior, interior, and safety features.
Components of a Digital Inspection
A digital vehicle inspection has the following components:
- Mobile Device: The digital inspection tool or software is downloaded on a smartphone or tablet. Technicians can use this device to enter data in respective fields, take photos, record videos, and mark potential issues directly on the device.
- Digital Inspection Software: There are specialized software and apps that contain features related to digital inspections. These may include pre-loaded checklists, customizable forms, pre-populated notes, upload and storage options for media, and so on. Many of these also generate a digital inspection report automatically based on the provided information.
- Digital Inspection Checklist: An automotive digital inspection checklist covers all the critical parts of a vehicle, such as the brakes, electrical systems, suspensions, engines, fluids, tires, and more. They can be customized for specific makes, models, and trim levels. Technicians can mark each item as "Pass," "Fail," or "Needs Attention" based on their findings.
- Real-Time Data Capture: The software used for mobile digital inspection must support real-time data capture in the form of images or videos. Some tools take it a step further by allowing technicians to draw over the images to highlight issues.
- Data Tracking: Often, historical data of a vehicle is needed for an accurate digital diagnosis of a problem. So, data tracking is a helpful component that can record the vehicle's details and its earlier inspections. Technicians can compare data for changes over time and identify recurring issues.
Many paperless digital inspection systems also integrate with other tools. For example, they can link to an online parts catalog, access repair information, or process invoices directly. When you bring your vehicle to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, we use the most advanced and feature-rich digital inspection software.
How Often Should You Get a Digital Vehicle Inspection?
The frequency of a digital vehicle inspection really depends on how often you drive and the condition of your vehicle. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should aim for a digital inspection at least once a year or more often if you notice any issues popping up.
Some issues that warrant an inspection are:
- An accident, even a minor one, from which you can drive away
- Pre-purchase inspection
- Road trips or long-distance travel
- Unusual noises and smells coming from under the hood or visible leaks
- A sudden change in dashboard warning lights or gauges
Another factor to consider is your vehicle's age and mileage. Older vehicles or those with high mileage may require more frequent inspections to catch problems early on. The technicians at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists can guide you further on how often to bring in your vehicle for the digital inspection process.
What to Expect in a Digital Inspection Report
The digital inspection report is like a school report card for your vehicle. It breaks down your vehicle's overall health, both internally and externally.
The report may include:
- A summary of the inspection results
- Detailed images or videos of problem areas
- A list of recommended repairs or maintenance tasks
- Cost estimates for each recommended task
Some digital inspection reports may also provide a timeline for when each task should be completed, along with the consequences of delaying or neglecting certain repairs. The digital inspection technology we use at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists provides you with maximum information regarding your vehicle's maintenance.
Let Hi-Tech Auto Specialists Give Your Vehicle a Digital Check-Up!
A real-time digital inspection can help you learn about your vehicle's health and potential future issues. It can save you from expensive vehicle repairs and provide peace of mind on the road.
The digital inspection system at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists
is extensively detailed and comprehensive. Our digital inspection solution also assists with diagnosing complex issues to help us give your vehicle the treatment it needs. Call us at 708-423-4555 or 708-865-0855.
