Article Summary
A TOPDON survey of over 3,000 North American automotive technicians found that 73 percent identify restricted access to OEM diagnostic data as their top challenge, with 67 percent also struggling to diagnose vehicle network and communication systems, highlighting ongoing tensions between independent repair shops and automakers over data sharing.
- 73 percent of professional technicians cite limited OEM data access as their primary obstacle, despite extensive industry experience
- 67 percent identify vehicle network and communication systems as the most difficult to diagnose
- 68 percent of surveyed technicians need more in-depth, OEM-level diagnostics and coverage in their tools
- The collision repair sector faces a critical shortage: 75,000 technicians needed by 2028 but only 30,000 graduates expected from training programs
- 81 percent predict increased use of OEM-secured gateways and encrypted vehicle systems will shape the future of diagnostic tools
Toronto, Ontario -- A recent survey from Chinese diagnostic tool manufacturer TOPDON reveals that limited access to automaker data has emerged as the top challenge facing professional automotive technicians, with 73 percent of respondents citing restricted OEM information as their primary obstacle despite having extensive industry experience.
The national survey of more than 3,000 professional technicians and DIY mechanics across North America, conducted in September 2025, found that 67 percent of professional technicians identified vehicle network and communication systems as the most difficult to diagnose. Among those surveyed, 66 percent had more than 10 years of experience in the field, while 51 percent held ASE certifications.
"The biggest obstacles that pro mechanics face parallel the features and functions they want in their current diagnostic tools," said Chad Schnitz, Vice President of TOPDON US. "For example, 68 percent of those surveyed cited a need for more in-depth, OEM-level diagnostics and coverage. Additionally, 46 percent want wiring diagrams and guided repair guides, and 45 percent would like to have faster scan speeds."
The findings underscore ongoing tensions between independent repair facilities and automakers over diagnostic access. As Collision Repair has previously reported, 83 percent of Canadians support laws requiring automakers to share diagnostic data with independents, while Honda's recent policy shift requiring only factory scan tools for post-collision diagnostics has further highlighted the access debate.
The data access challenges come at a particularly difficult moment for the collision repair sector. Industry projections suggest demand for 75,000 new collision repair technicians by 2028, yet only 30,000 graduates are expected to emerge from training programs, according to recent analysis. Diagnostic equipment costs range from $5,000 to $20,000, plus ongoing maintenance expenses.
When working on hybrid and electric vehicles, 39 percent of professional technicians identified challenges with battery packs, inverters and isolation faults, while 33 percent cited ADAS systems as problematic. Looking ahead, 81 percent of respondents pointed to increased use of OEM-secured gateways and encrypted vehicle systems as a key trend shaping the future of diagnostic tools, while 55 percent cited the growth of EVs and hybrids requiring new diagnostic capabilities.
The survey also revealed a shift in how technicians evaluate and purchase diagnostic tools. Accuracy and ease-of-use emerged as the top factors when choosing diagnostic equipment, outranking price considerations. Additionally, 77 percent cited YouTube as their primary source for learning about new diagnostic tools, followed by 57 percent who turn to manufacturer websites.
"The adoption of new technology to work on vehicles is certainly evolving," said Schnitz. "It's clear that vehicles are getting smarter and more complicated to repair. It's one reason why TOPDON has been working at the collegiate and trade school level, through our TOPUP Academic Program, over the last several years."
The survey also examined the growing "prosumer" segment of DIY mechanics. Among DIY respondents, 85 percent reported using diagnostic tools to determine whether they can complete repairs themselves, while 60 percent cited avoiding overcharges at repair shops as a motivation. However, 49 percent of DIY mechanics identified lack of support or tutorials as a key frustration, noting that simply reading trouble codes often fails to clarify the necessary fix.
Similar to professional technicians, 74 percent of DIY respondents identified features and functions as the most important factor when shopping for diagnostic tools, ahead of both brand reputation and price. Nearly 90 percent of DIY mechanics listed engine diagnostics, oil changes and fluids, brake and rotor repair, and electrical or battery-related work as their most common repair or maintenance tasks.
"The data from our survey makes one thing very clear: the future of automotive diagnostics depends on access, education and adaptability," said Schnitz. "These are all at the core of TOPDON's mission."
