The Detroit Connect Virtual Technician remote diagnostic system can now deliver remote fault event diagnostics for Detroit DT12 automated manual transmissions.
This enhancement – at the 2017 American Trucking Association Management Conference & Exhibition – expands on the diagnostic service for Freightliner and Western Star trucks powered by Detroit engines. It will help customers make more informed decisions regarding when and how to repair issues causing fault events, helping them avoid unnecessary downtime.
If vehicles do need to be taken to a service center, technicians will have the information to help get the truck repaired as quickly as possible and fixed right the first time, according to the company. The Virtual Technician diagnostic process for the DT12 is similar to the process for Detroit engine and after-treatment systems. When a fault event occurs, Virtual Technician relays details to the customer within minutes. That notification will inform them of the severity of the fault, as well as when, where and how to best fix the issue.
DT12 fault events are categorized based on how severe vehicle drivability is affected.
“Service Soon” events are faults that can be addressed at the end of a run or at another time convenient to the customer’s operations. These notifications include information on what should be checked prior to scheduling service.
“Service Now” events are faults that could cause the truck to soon become un-drivable and should be serviced immediately.
“The addition of transmission diagnostics is one more way we’re providing critical information to fleets and owner-operators, helping them make smart business decisions within minutes of noticing an issue,” said Jason Krajewski, director, connectivity, Daimler Trucks North America. “Whether it’s helping make the decision to keep the truck on the road, or having that quick initial diagnosis to get the issue resolved as quickly as possible, all of these scenarios help improve uptime for our customers.”
Customers can access all fault event details using either the Detroit Connect portal or the new Detroit Connect mobile app.
For the DT12, Virtual Technician will monitor 150 faults, including:
- Not shifting into or out of neutral
- Engine RPM spikes while shifting
- Not engaging in forward or reverse gears
“Since we launched Virtual Technician in 2011, we have been improving it by integrating additional Detroit components,” said Kary Schaefer, general manager, marketing and strategy, Daimler Trucks North America. “We pride ourselves on helping customers understand their truck’s health and maximizing the uptime.”
