Mastering Diagnostics No. 33: A Proving Grounds Test
In this episode of Mastering Diagnostics, Brandon Steckler puts a new tool to the test. As a seasoned automotive technician diagnostic tools specialist, Steckler brings his real-world workshop experience to evaluate the XTOOL Prodigy.
Now working 75 percent of the time hands-on in the shop, Steckler is uniquely positioned to assess how this tool performs across domestic, Asian and European vehicles in day-to-day diagnostics. From lightning-fast boot times to OBD scan tool data graphing capabilities that allow technicians to analyze multiple PIDs simultaneously, the XTOOL Prodigy is making a strong impression.
Steckler walks through a real-world case study involving a torque converter clutch shudder diagnosis — solved entirely from the driver's seat using the tool's powerful 2D graphing features. With a focus on accuracy, efficiency, and team collaboration, this episode highlights how the right vehicle ECU scan tool software can transform your diagnostic workflow and maximize shop profitability. Watch the full video to see the XTOOL Prodigy in action. For more information on the XTOOL Prodigy, visit https://www.xtooltech.us/collections/prodigy/products/prodigy.
About the Author
Brandon Steckler
Technical Editor | Motor Age
Brandon began his career in Northampton County Community College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where he was a student of GM’s Automotive Service Educational program. In 2001, he graduated top of his class and earned the GM Leadership award for his efforts. He later began working as a technician at a Saturn dealership in Reading, Pennsylvania, where he quickly attained Master Technician status. He later transitioned to working with Hondas, where he aggressively worked to attain another Master Technician status.
Always having a passion for a full understanding of system/component functionality, he rapidly earned a reputation for deciphering strange failures at an efficient pace and became known as an information specialist among the staff and peers at the dealership. In search of new challenges, he transitioned away from the dealership and to the independent world, where he specialized in diagnostics and driveability.
Today, he is an instructor with both Carquest Technical Institute and Worldpac Training Institute. Along with beta testing for Automotive Test Solutions, he develops curriculum/submits case studies for educational purposes. Through Steckler Automotive Technical Services, LLC., Brandon also provides telephone and live technical support, as well as private training, for technicians all across the world.
Brandon holds ASE certifications A1-A9 as well as C1 (Service Consultant). He is certified as an Advanced Level Specialist in L1 (Advanced Engine Performance), L2 (Advanced Diesel Engine Performance), L3 (Hybrid/EV Specialist), L4 (ADAS) and xEV-Level 2 (Technician electrical safety).
He contributes weekly to Facebook automotive chat groups, has authored several books and classes, and truly enjoys traveling across the globe to help other technicians attain a level of understanding that will serve them well throughout their careers.