Automotive technology changes quickly, which, for dealership technicians, requires dedication as well as training to stay up to date on the latest changes in today’s advanced vehicles. A key to staying informed is knowing where to find the latest information.
There are a number of online resources, including GlobalConnect, Service Information and the GM Center of Learning, that offer a variety of technical information, service news and training. (Fig. 14)
Fig. 14
To help technicians keep up with the advancements being made in the automotive industry, following is a list of technician resources along with links or directions on how to access more information.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER (TAC) NEWSLETTER
The monthly TAC Dealer Tips and New Information newsletter (Fig. 15) includes TAC tips and information from recent TAC cases to help resolve known concerns.
Fig. 15
Access: GM TechLink – search “TAC Newsletter” or look for the latest PDF on the home page.
Link: https://gm-techlink.com
DEALER IN-VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY LIBRARY
Library of articles focused on in-vehicle technology and infotainment systems. (Fig. 16)
Fig. 16
The following categories are included:
- Comfort & Convenience
- Competitive Insights
- Captured Test Fleet (CTF)
- Digital Owner’s Manual Resources
- District Manager OnStar & Loyalty Training
- Driver Assistance, Safety & Security
- Electric Vehicles
- Google built-in
- Infotainment
- MyBrand Mobile App
- OnStar
- OnStar Business Solutions
- OnStar Owner Onboarding
- Performance, Ride & Handling Playbooks
Access: GlobalConnect App Center > In-Vehicle Technology Library
Link: https://www.gmglobalinfotainmentlibrary.com/library/
MODE 6 DATA
Mode 6 is an ODB2 diagnostic mode that complies with SAE J1979 OBD II standards. Mode 6 provides data for each of the ECM/TCM DTCs for a specific vehicle being serviced. It covers exactly what the control module is looking for to set the DTC. (Fig. 17)
Fig. 17
To search for information:
- Select the model year of your vehicle.
- Select the parameter matrix.
- Find the group or PDF that contains the applicable engine or transmission. For example, when selecting a 2024 model, the 6.6 L5P engine can be found in group 4a.
- Back out of the matrix, select 4a, and using CTRL+F, type in the specific DTC you are researching.
- The results provide specific criteria for a DTC along with the pass or fail conditions.
Access: Service Information – Mode 6 can be accessed from the link on the Service Information home page.
Link: gmglobalconnect.com
GM UPFITTER INTEGRATION
The General Motors Upfitter Integration group provides technical assistance to upfitters in the field who modify vehicles for a wide variety of commercial applications. Assistance includes electrical schematics, dimensional data and guidelines for modifications, such as lengthening a frame rail. The website is kept up to date with detailed Body Builder Manuals, Technical Bulletins and Best Practice Manuals. (Fig. 18)
Fig. 18
The Upfitter Integration group also acts as a liaison between the upfitter and/or end customer and other GM organizations, such as Engineering, Marketing and Service. Their interface role with these groups is often required when (1.) a technical solution is not obvious and in-depth Engineering investigation is required, (2.) a product feature that is required is not available and needs to be added by Marketing, or (3.) a new service calibration needs to be developed and made available by GM Service.
Access: GM Upfitter Integration
Link: https://www.gmupfitter.com or select the link on the Service Information home page.
GM TECHLINK
GM technical website hosts articles on new programs and emerging service issues, TAC Newsletter, Action Center surveys, troubleshooting for programming issues, Techline Connect features and more. (Fig. 19)
Fig. 19
Access: GM TechLink
Link: https://gm-techlink.com or select the link on the Service Information home page.
USER GUIDES
User Guides for the DBDT, MDI/MDI2, SI, GDS2, and Techline Connect can be found on the Service Information home page. (Fig. 20)
Fig. 20
Access: Service Information > Select and view a User Guide
Link: gmglobalconnect.com
TRANSMISSION BLUEBOOKS
Guides for transmission service, diagnosis, and repair can be found on the Service Information home page. (Fig. 21)
Fig. 21
Access: Service Information > Select and view a Unit Repair, Specialty Publication, or Transmission Technical Guide
Link: gmglobalconnect.com
TECHTUBE
ACDelco provides short (3-7 minute) videos focusing on specific technical procedures, presented by ACDelco trainers. (Fig. 22)
Fig. 22
Access: GM Parts – select Technical Training
Link: https://www.acdelcotraining.com (Sign-in required)
GM TECH FORUMS
The tech forums feature user-generated content, where technicians request help or provide advice on vehicle and diagnostic repair, dealer tools, PC assistance and more. (Fig. 23)
Fig. 23
Access: GlobalConnect App Center > Technician Forum
Link: https://service-gm-forum.com/techforum1/index.php (Sign-in required)
CENTER OF LEARNING & VIDEO RESOURCE LIBRARY
Hosts technician training courses and provides resources for the diagnosis and repair of new service issues. (Fig. 24)
Fig. 24
Access: GM Center of Learning
Link: www.centerlearning.com (Sign-in required)
LUNCH WITH YOUR FIELD SERVICE ENGINEERS
Monthly 1-hour call with the Field team and Field Service Engineers. Common issues being seen throughout the country are discussed along with various technical topics, based on technicians’ feedback, and real-world case studies from the FSEs. (Fig. 25)
Fig. 25
Access: Sessions are held on the third Wednesday of each month. See the latest GlobalConnect communication for a calendar and QR code + link to the call.
Thanks to David Rase
Updated October 3, 2024
looks like you accidentally omitted lunch with an fse