Vehicle vibration can be a frustrating issue for drivers and a diagnostic challenge for technicians. Pinpointing the source of noises and vibrations has traditionally relied on subjective assessments and guesswork. However, the Pico Car Tool For Vibration, specifically the PicoDiagnostics NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) kit from Pico Technology, offers a cost-effective and data-driven solution to these complex problems. This innovative tool empowers automotive professionals to accurately diagnose and resolve NVH issues, saving time and ensuring customer satisfaction.
VW Golf NVH diagnostics Analyzing car vibration using Pico NVH tool to identify a broken suspension coil spring in a VW Golf.
Benefits of Using a Pico Car Tool for Vibration Diagnosis
The PicoDiagnostics NVH kit leverages the power of PicoScope Automotive oscilloscopes to provide technicians with a clear, visual representation of vehicle vibrations. The software translates complex vibration data into easily understandable formats, including:
- Bar graphs: For quick visual assessment of vibration levels across different axes.
- Frequency charts: To identify specific frequencies contributing to noise and vibration.
- 3D frequency charts: Providing a comprehensive view of vibration frequency and amplitude over time.
- RPM order analysis: Correlating vibrations with engine RPM to pinpoint engine-related issues.
- Road speed view: Analyzing vibrations in relation to vehicle speed, useful for driveline and wheel-related problems.
- Time domain view: Examining vibration patterns over time for detailed analysis.
A significant advantage of the pico car tool for vibration is its ability to record data during road tests. Technicians can focus on driving and capturing the vibration event without distraction, and then play back and analyze the recorded data in the workshop at their convenience. This not only enhances safety during testing but also allows for thorough and unhurried analysis. Data saving is straightforward, similar to other Pico automotive software, allowing files to be easily stored on a laptop for future reference and comparison.
Typical Applications of the Pico NVH Tool for Vibration
Customer complaints about vehicle noise and vibration are often vague and subjective. The pico car tool for vibration provides objective data to support diagnosis and customer communication. By using the NVH kit, technicians can:
- Objectively measure and record noise and vibration levels during a road test with the customer.
- Compare collected data against previous recordings or data from similar vehicles to differentiate between normal characteristics and actual faults.
- Present clear, data-backed evidence to customers, reassuring them when perceived vibrations are within normal limits.
- Identify and quantify actual vibration problems, providing concrete data to guide repair decisions.
The pico car tool for vibration is invaluable in a wide range of diagnostic scenarios, helping to quickly and accurately pinpoint the source of NVH issues, such as:
- Cabin vibrations at speed: Diagnosing aerodynamic noise, tire issues, or chassis vibrations.
- Engine vibrations across the RPM range: Identifying engine imbalance, misfires, or component issues.
- Clutch judder or vibration: Pinpointing clutch wear, contamination, or flywheel problems.
- Transmission and bearing whine: Isolating gearbox, differential, or wheel bearing noise.
- Auxiliary drive noise: Diagnosing alternator, power steering pump, or air conditioning compressor noise.
- Brake judder: Identifying warped rotors, uneven pad wear, or suspension issues.
- Steering vibrations: Diagnosing wheel balance, tire defects, or steering component problems.
Pico NVH Kit Contents and Configurations
PicoDiagnostics NVH kits are designed to be adaptable to various diagnostic needs and budgets. They are available in different configurations, primarily differing in the number of sensors included. Each kit includes an NVH interface box, BNC cables for connecting to a PicoScope Automotive oscilloscope, and a USB cable for PC/laptop connection. RPM data can be acquired using a separate J2534 scan tool or VCI (not included).
Pico offers Starter, Standard, and Advanced NVH kits to suit different levels of diagnostic capability:
- Starter NVH Kit: Measures vibrations on three axes (X, Y, Z) using a single tri-axial accelerometer.
- Standard NVH Kit: Expands on the Starter kit by allowing measurement of vibration or sound at two locations, offering more comprehensive analysis.
- Advanced NVH Kit: Provides the most comprehensive vibration analysis, enabling simultaneous measurement of vibration or sound at four different locations.
“Essentials” versions of each kit include a PicoScope 4425A diagnostic oscilloscope, providing a complete solution for users who do not already own a compatible PicoScope. Kits are available in either a carry case or a foam tray for tool chest storage.
| NVH kit | NVH interface | Accelerometer | Magnet | Microphone | Extension cable | PicoScope 4425A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essentials Starter NVH Kit | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Essentials Standard NVH Kit | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Essentials Advanced NVH Kit | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 1 |
| Starter NVH Kit | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Standard NVH Kit | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| Advanced NVH Kit | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 0 |
Enhance Your Vibration Diagnostics with Pico Accessories
To further expand the capabilities of the pico car tool for vibration, Pico Technology offers optional accessories:
- Mongoose-Plus ISO/CAN 3 J2534 lead (TA512): This cost-effective J2534 pass-thru device allows for reliable acquisition of engine and road speed signals directly from the vehicle’s diagnostic port, streamlining data collection.
- BNC+ Optical balancing kit (PQ316): This kit enables on-vehicle propshaft balancing, directly addressing first-order shaft vibrations. The PicoDiagnostics software includes a dedicated Propshaft balancing test, providing step-by-step guidance and analysis tools for pinion flange, single weight, and hose clamp balancing methods. A standard BNC connector Optical sensor kit (PP991) is also available as an alternative.
In conclusion, the pico car tool for vibration, the PicoDiagnostics NVH kit, provides automotive technicians with a powerful, accurate, and user-friendly solution for diagnosing and resolving vehicle noise and vibration issues. Its objective data capture and analysis capabilities streamline the diagnostic process, improve customer communication, and ensure effective repairs, making it an invaluable asset for any modern automotive workshop.
