The Automotive Blog

Great value all around diagnostics from Thinkcar UK.

ThinkTool Euro Master Lite, 8” OE- Level Professional Diagnostic Tool Developed By ThinkCar.

The Euro Master lite is THINKCAR UKs new compact pro-level scan tool. This tool is designed to be streamlined and deployable. When technicians have jobs outside the shop or jobs need to be resolved fast, the Euro master lite is up to the task.

Equipped with VAG Guidance for VW, AUDI, SKODA and SEAT vehicles, the Thinkcar Master Lite can walk you through operations with step-by-step instructions, help you skip the security access code and channel numbers to perform matching, calibrations, and basic adjustments or settings, effectively streamlining the diagnostic process.

The Master lite allows professional technicians to take on more jobs with access to automotive coverage for over 200 vehicle makes, including GM, FORD, Chrysler, Benz, BMW and more.

With Bi-Directional capabilities, the Thinkcar Master Lite can perform individual tests for single actuators to know if the actuator functions well. Capabilities include fuel injectors, coolant pumps, windows, windshield wipers, and more.

The Thinkcar Master Lite allows the customers to dig deep into all systems including Engine, Transmission, Airbag, ABS, ESP, TPMS, Immobilizer, Gateway, Steering, Radio, Air Conditioning Systems, and more.

The Thinkcar Master Lite reads & clears fault codes with ease. Users can quickly detect the fault codes in all systems and clear them with one click.

Record data streams for reference at any time. The data will be displayed in the form of an easy-to-read graph which helps users intuitively observe data changes over time and view up to 12 data streams on one screen

The Thinkcar Master Lite offers FCA Gateway access to perform enhanced diagnostics, such as clearing DTCs, bi-directional control, Oil resets, SAS resets and more special functions on FCA vehicles (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and more).

Users can pair the Master Lite with the whole range for THINKCAR Accessories such as oscilloscope, battery tester, thermal camera, TPMS tool plus more.

Quick Reference User Guide

Commercial Vehicle Brake Testing

The following criteria are required for all HGV brake testing.
All brake testing should be carried out away from the sites working area; this should
be done in an area that has roughly level ground.

The MOT performance figures are for the Peak Reading:
Service Brake Bare Minimum 50 %
Secondary Brake Bare Minimum 25 %
Parking Brake Bare Minimum 16 %

Although the test requirement looks for a peak reading, you could use the
relationship between the peak and average to determine brake performance, if you
achieved a peak reading of say 51 – 58 this is not indicating good brakes, peak
figures of 70 + can be achieved to indicate good brakes, even though high peaks are
recorded if a low average is recorded (20 – 30 example only) this would indicate bad
brakes or you will more than likely fail a roller brake test!

Brake Tester Position
The brake tester should be positioned in the foot well of the vehicle, preferably up
against a bulkhead with the direction of travel arrow pointing in the intended direction
and with the tester straight.

Vehicle Test Procedure
With the vehicle stationary, position and arm the brake tester, accelerate the vehicle
at a constant rate in a straight line up to a safe site speed then apply the brakes in an
emergency stop manner, hold the vehicle on the brake until the vehicle has come to
a complete rest.

Arming The Brake Tester
Turn the BrakeCheck on by pressing and holding MENU until Sbr is displayed on the
screen.
Press ENTER, the display will now show the level indicator L-| |-, if this is not the
case, re-position the BrakeCheck until achieved.
Press ENTER the display should now read 0.00 ± 5.

As described above accelerate and brake.
The peak reading will report at the end of the test, if the display still shows L-| |- you
did not press ENTER!!
With the Peak reading displayed press ENTER, this will show the average reading.
Pressing ENTER again shows further information.
For a Hand Brake Test press MENU twice, this is while the service brake results are
displayed; the display should now show Hbr. Now go to the second paragraph under
“Arming The Brake Tester” to carry out a test.

For a Secondary Brake Test press MENU three times, this is while the hand brake
results are displayed, and the display should now show SEc. Now go to the second
paragraph under “Arming The Brake Tester” to carry out a test.

Printing Stored Tests
BrakeCheck has a 1 – TEST MEMORY on the Service Brake, Secondary Brake
and Hand Brake Test
The BrakeCheck can output test results to a printer if required. Printing is via Infra
red.

To Print:
Printing the Service Brake:
If the BrakeCheck has powered-down due to inactivity:
Press – Menu until the display shows Sbr.

Press Menu twice until the BrakeCheck display shows Sbr and the bottom half of
the BrakeCheck Decal menu shows two lights, one on Service Brake Test and the other on Last Test Result
Press “Enter” once, (this is not necessary if the unit has not powered-down) the
Peak Deceleration (Front/Rear) LED will be lit and the display will show a value, eg: 00.71

Make sure the printer is turned on, turn the printer on by pressing the GREY M
button on the front of the printer, a green light should now be consistent on.

If the green light is flashing the printer needs recharging!!
Point the front of the brake tester at the front of the printer.
Press “Print” once, the display will show: Prt
and the printer will print the results for the last test performed.
Now do the same for the Hand Brake or the Secondary Brake, but have the Hand
brake test light and Last Test Result illuminated on the BrakeCheck or the Service,
Hand Brake & Last Test Result illuminated for the Secondary Brake

It is acceptable to use an approved and calibrated decelerometer to measure overall brake efficiency values for rigid vehicles without trailers or for vehicles that cannot be tested on an RBT. A decelerometer will measure the overall brake efficiency but it may not identify individual braking issues. A temperature check needs to be carried out at the same time as a decelerometer test to help identify if individual brakes are operational. Brake temperature readings would need to be well above ambient temperature with relatively consistent readings taken for each brake across an axle. Brakes which are cold (ambient temperature) or showing an inconsistent reading from the brake on the opposite side on the same axle, need to be investigated further. Where possible brake testing should be undertaken with the vehicle or trailer in a laden condition to achieve the most meaningful results. A competent person may carry out a risk assessment based on use, working conditions, mileage and the age of vehicle to determine if some of the brake tests carried out in the year can be unladen; however, it is strongly recommended that at least 4 of the brake tests carried out are laden1 .

Risk assessments need to be retained on file and made available for inspection. From 1st January 2023 vehicles and trailers must be appropriately laden when presented for annual test2 . From April 2025 there will be an expectation that a laden roller brake test or EBPMS will be the only accepted methods to assess brake performance.

Thinkcar UK Thinktool Reader HD – Small device, mighty HGV diagnostics!

Thinktool Reader HD is an entry level intelligent diagnostic instrument for 31+ commercial vehicle, heavy duty truck (HGV’s), machinery worldwide. Complete capabilities for codes, live data, actuation tests.
Although an entry level diagnostic device, it packs a punch with its efficient scans, features, and 1-year free updates for all heavy-duty software

• Full Vehicle Diagnostics
• Read and Clear DTCs
• Live Data Stream
• Read Freeze Frame
• Actuation Test
• Trip Information
• Read Version Information

Thinktool Reader HD has the complete capabilities for full vehicle scans, read and clear DTCs, live data streaming, read version information, special functions, actuation test and ability to easily generate test reports.

Thinktool Reader HD integrated the common used special function such as DPF regeneration, injector coding and more.

DPF Regeneration, Injector Coding, Reset Service(MIL), Maintenance Confirmation, Injection Quantity Adjustment, Particulate Filter Replacement Reset, Reset Pressure Differential Sensor, Reset Pressure Limiting Valve, Bleeding The Adblue Circuit, VGT Electronic Actuator Installation And Calibration, Trip Reset, Parked SCR Efficiency Test, DPF Ash Accumulator Reset

Parameter Calibration
Thinktool Reader HD allows technicians to reset the parameter and do parameter programming.

Idle Speed Adjustment Speed LimitCruise ControlIdle-Stop SystemPTO

Coolant Level Switch Exhaust Brake ValveIntake Air PreheatingVehicle Speed ControllerAir Conditioner

Oil Pressure Sensor Electronic FanABSAutomatic Transmission

Full HD OBD Function
Reader HD supports full HD OBD and EOBDII function to read and clear fault code, live data stream, freeze frame and more.

Contact aide automotive on 0115 8456471 or info@aideautomotive.com Our product range – Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester – HGV Brake Testers – Trailer EBS Testers – HGV Truck Trailer EBS / ABS Sensor Tester – Truck /Trailer Diagnostic Tools – Midtronics Battery Testers – Anti Siphon Devices – ISOCheck – Trailer Locks – Auto Braking Reversing System – HGV Diesel Tank Alarms – HGV Siphon  – Misfuelling Diesel Head – Truck Susie Coil Covers – #MOT #Calibration – 12 Volt Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester– Plus More

Here are the user guides for your BrakeCheck, please note the version of your BrakeCheck, i.e. Standard MOT, Secondary, GEO, Truck & Trailer Or BCheck Plus

BrakeCheck Secondary With Printer CLICK HERE

BrakeCheck MOT Click Here

BrakeCheck Truck & Trailer Click Here

BrakeCheck GEO Click HERE

BrakeCheck Download to PC

Here are using guides for the TrailerCheck product range

TrailerCheck Portable CLICK HERE

NoxBox User Guide CLICK HERE

EBS / ABS Sensor Master User Guide CLICK HERE

TestaTow User Guide CLICK HERE

ISOCheck User Guide Click Here

We can also email user guides in PDF – send a request to matt@aideautomotive.com

aide automotive 0115 8456471

Our product range – Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester – HGV Brake Testers – Trailer EBS Testers – HGV Truck Trailer EBS / ABS Sensor Tester – Truck /Trailer Diagnostic Tools – Midtronics Battery Testers – Anti Siphon Devices – ISOCheck – Trailer Locks – Auto Braking Reversing System – HGV Diesel Tank Alarms – HGV Siphon  – Misfuelling Diesel Head – Truck Susie Coil Covers – #MOT #Calibration – 12 Volt Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester– Plus More

BrakeCheck is a decelerometer but what is a decelerometer ?

Decelerometers, also known as deceleration sensors or deceleration meters, are devices used to measure and quantify deceleration or negative acceleration. Deceleration refers to a decrease in velocity over time, and it is commonly associated with the braking or slowing down of an object or vehicle. Decelerometers are widely used in various applications, particularly in the automotive industry for safety and performance monitoring. They are often integrated into vehicles, specifically in systems such as airbags and electronic stability control (ESC) systems. These sensors play a crucial role in detecting sudden deceleration events, such as collisions or rapid braking, and triggering appropriate safety measures. The working principle of decelerometers typically involves the use of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology. MEMS decelerometers consist of a tiny mass suspended on a spring-like structure. When subjected to deceleration forces, the mass moves relative to the sensor housing, causing a change in electrical output. This change is then measured and converted into acceleration or deceleration values. The output of a decelerometer is usually expressed in units of acceleration, such as meters per second squared (m/s²) or gravitational force (g). Some advanced decelerometers may also provide additional information, such as the direction of deceleration or rotational acceleration. Besides automotive applications, decelerometers can be found in other fields where the measurement of deceleration is important. For example, they are used in aerospace engineering to monitor the deceleration forces experienced during spacecraft re-entry or landing. They are also utilized in sports science to assess the impact forces on athletes during various activities, such as running or jumping. Overall, decelerometers are valuable tools for measuring and analysing deceleration forces in different contexts, contributing to safety, performance evaluation, and research in various industries. aide automotive market the BrakeCheck Decelerometer for automotive use in the UK MOT garages and HGV Brake testing.

Learn more – Brake Tester Decelerometers for MOT / HGV

Contact aide automotive on 0115 8456471 or info@aideautomotive.com Our product range – Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester – HGV Brake Testers – Trailer EBS Testers – HGV Truck Trailer EBS / ABS Sensor Tester – Truck /Trailer Diagnostic Tools – Midtronics Battery Testers – Anti Siphon Devices – ISOCheck – Trailer Locks – Auto Braking Reversing System – HGV Diesel Tank Alarms – HGV Siphon  – Misfuelling Diesel Head – Truck Susie Coil Covers – #MOT #Calibration – 12 Volt Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester– Plus More

Truck Fuel Tank Alarm

Introducing the aide automotive HGV TankGuard Fuel tank alarm, designed to prevent diesel theft from your truck!

With this innovative alarm system, you can protect your fuel tank and avoid any unauthorized access. Say goodbye to worries about fuel theft!

To learn more about our HGV TankGuard Fuel tank alarm and our other fantastic products, get in touch with aide automotive.

Contact aide automotive on 0115 8456471 or info@aideautomotive.com Our product range – Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester – HGV Brake Testers – Trailer EBS Testers – HGV Truck Trailer EBS / ABS Sensor Tester – Truck /Trailer Diagnostic Tools – Midtronics Battery Testers – Anti Siphon Devices – ISOCheck – Trailer Locks – Auto Braking Reversing System – HGV Diesel Tank Alarms – HGV Siphon  – Misfuelling Diesel Head – Truck Susie Coil Covers – #MOT #Calibration – 12 Volt Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester– Plus More

Fuel theft from heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) is a growing concern for businesses. Whether it’s opportunistic thieves or organized gangs, the impact can be significant. However, aide automotive offers a solution with their ASD screw fit anti-siphon device, which provides protection against external and internal theft. Alongside this device, aide automotive offers a range of other products to enhance the safety and efficiency of HGVs. From trailer brake testers to misfuelling diesel heads, their comprehensive selection aims to meet the diverse needs of the commercial vehicle industry. By partnering with aide automotive and implementing these solutions, businesses can take proactive measures to prevent HGV fuel theft and secure their valuable fuel supplies. Contact aide automotive at 0115 8456471 or info@aideautomotive.com for more information.

Contact aide automotive on 0115 8456471 or info@aideautomotive.com Our product range – Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester – HGV Brake Testers – Trailer EBS Testers – HGV Truck Trailer EBS / ABS Sensor Tester – Truck /Trailer Diagnostic Tools – Midtronics Battery Testers – Anti Siphon Devices – ISOCheck – Trailer Locks – Auto Braking Reversing System – HGV Diesel Tank Alarms – HGV Siphon  – Misfuelling Diesel Head – Truck Susie Coil Covers – #MOT #Calibration – 12 Volt Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester– Plus More

Introducing TestaTow, the 12 Volt portable trailer wiring tester designed for small semi-trailers, including Ifor Williams, horse boxes, agricultural trailers, and caravans. This convenient and well-constructed tester is available in two options: standard and Agri TestaTow, which includes an ISO ABS warning light test. With its wide compatibility, TestaTow can test towing bars on 13-pin or 7-pin socket versions. The tester comes in a tough carry case, making it easy to transport and store. From large fleet companies to individual maintenance engineers, TestaTow is the go-to solution for efficient and reliable trailer wiring testing.

Contact aide automotive on 0115 8456471 or info@aideautomotive.com Our product range – Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester – HGV Brake Testers – Trailer EBS Testers – HGV Truck Trailer EBS / ABS Sensor Tester – Truck /Trailer Diagnostic Tools – Midtronics Battery Testers – Anti Siphon Devices – ISOCheck – Trailer Locks – Auto Braking Reversing System – HGV Diesel Tank Alarms – HGV Siphon  – Misfuelling Diesel Head – Truck Susie Coil Covers – #MOT #Calibration – 12 Volt Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester– Plus More

Trailer Master Ultimate “VAN MOUNTED LIGHT ABS / EBS TESTER C/W PNEUMATIC FUNCTIONS”

Trailer Master Ultimate is designed to enable a single operator to test a trailer’s complete lighting system using the 24n and 24s power sockets, and to test the EBS warning light function on the trailer using the ISO 7638 socket.

Users can connect an air supply from a compressor in order to test the braking system, and test the service brake manually with the service brake switch or via the wired 15m remote control. The system features two glycerin-filled air gauges for service and emergency pressures.

“Connect the 24n and 24s sockets to the trailer then turn on the auto light test switch; the trailer lights will illuminate in a pre-set order for approximately 10 seconds each, allowing you time to check each light.

The sequence is as follows: left lights, left indicator, brake light, reverse light, fog light, right indicator, right lights.

The kit is equipped with three five-metre air hoses for yellow line, red line and air supply in; a 15-metre wired remote control for service brake operation; three five-metre electrical leads for 24n, 24s and ISO 7638; red and yellow line coupling adaptors; and a power supply cable (connect to fused 24-volt supply).

Contact aide automotive on 0115 8456471 or info@aideautomotive.com Our product range – Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester – HGV Brake Testers – Trailer EBS Testers – HGV Truck Trailer EBS / ABS Sensor Tester – Truck /Trailer Diagnostic Tools – Midtronics Battery Testers – Anti Siphon Devices – ISOCheck – Trailer Locks – Auto Braking Reversing System – HGV Diesel Tank Alarms – HGV Siphon  – Misfuelling Diesel Head – Truck Susie Coil Covers – #MOT #Calibration – 12 Volt Trailer / Caravan Light / Brake Tester– Plus More