Nissan, INFINITI update scanning position statements

Nissan and INFINITI updated their pre- and post-repair scanning position statements on Nov. 1 to require the use of their CONSULT diagnostic scan tool. 

“This reinforces Nissan’s longstanding emphasis on using CONSULT to ensure accurate identification and functionality of all vehicle systems, including mechanical, ADAS, and infotainment,” said Chad Gough, Nissan Group of North America aftersales, in an email to Repairer Driven News. 

The statements also require that the most up-to-date software be installed on the tool. Both statements say that the companies do not test or validate other diagnostic scan tools in the market, including altered or modified CONSULT software, or expressed capabilities. 

“Using the CONSULT diagnostic scan tool, stored DTCs are identified, validated, and can then be addressed within the repair process,” the statements say. “Remote diagnostic pre-repair scans, post-repair scans, and calibrations can also be performed by using the CONSULT tool with limitations specific to these approved remote devices.” 

Calibrations should be performed using only the CONSULT software with only the approved Nissan or INFINITI targets and target systems, the statements say. It says the systems should follow the service manual procedures. 

It lists systems and procedures as: 

• • asTech, utilizing the OEM CONSULT software only for scanning and calibration practices 
  • AirPro, utilizing the CONSULT software, for scanning and calibrations for 2017 and newer vehicles
  • Opus, utilizing the CONSULT software, for diagnostic trouble code identification and resolution
  • Hunter ADAS with WinAlign software for scanning and calibrations

Additional information can be found in the Electronic Service Manual, the statements say. 

“As vehicle scanning has become increasingly standard in collision repair, it has also intensified competition among aftermarket and remote scanning providers,” Gough said. “With rising repair costs and complexity, scanning has become a critical component of collision repair. This evolving landscape — marked by varied labor and sublet pricing for scanning and calibration — has led to the emergence of modified aftermarket and OEM software.” 

He said alterations to CONSULT software may prevent accurate system identification, potentially resulting in false positives. Whether diagnosing restraint systems or Bluetooth connectivity, CONSULT remains the only tool capable of identifying all components identified by the VIN and build data, he added. 

“To ensure the highest quality repair and customer confidence, it is essential that collision repairers use CONSULT software — the only tool tested and validated across our entire model lineup, regardless of year,” Gough said. “Use of aftermarket or modified OEM software may result in vehicle performance that deviates from original design specifications. A CONSULT scan is the first and final step in confirming a complete and accurate repair. Unlike other tools, CONSULT can detect issues even when no malfunction indicator light is present, providing assurance that the vehicle is truly ready to be returned to its owner.”

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Photo courtesy of Nissan