Instructor: Paul Finstrom

Course Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Class Objective – The student will learn to:

1. Understand the fundamentals of OBD and OBD-II systems used in modern vehicles.
2. Identify common problems encountered by automotive locksmiths and security professionals.
3. Learn a systematic approach to diagnosing automotive security and programming issues.
4. Become familiar with the diagnostic tools used to troubleshoot vehicle communication and immobilizer problems.
5. Read and interpret automotive wiring diagrams and know where to access reliable wiring information.
6. Work through real-world troubleshooting scenarios involving multiple vehicle manufacturers.
7. Improve confidence in identifying the root cause of programming and security system failures.
8. Develop practical diagnostic skills that can be immediately applied in the field.

Course Description

Successful automotive locksmiths don’t just know how to program keys—they know how to diagnose problems when things don’t go as planned.

This hands-on course focuses on the diagnostic side of automotive locksmithing by teaching students how to use OBD/OBD-II systems, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic tools to identify and solve common vehicle security issues. Through real-world case studies and live demonstrations, students will work through scenarios involving popular vehicle manufacturers, including Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, and others.

Using professional diagnostic tools and training simulators, participants will learn practical troubleshooting techniques that help reduce wasted time, avoid unnecessary parts replacement, and increase confidence when working on challenging automotive security systems.

What You’ll Learn

• OBD and OBD-II fundamentals
• Common automotive locksmith diagnostic procedures
• Essential diagnostic tools and equipment
• Reading and interpreting wiring diagrams
• Finding reliable wiring information
• Diagnosing communication failures
• Troubleshooting immobilizer and security system issues
• Real-world case studies involving Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, and other manufacturers
• Best practices for efficient problem solving

Hands-On Training

Students will participate in:

• Live troubleshooting demonstrations
• Diagnostic exercises using professional tools
• Real-world programming and security scenarios
• Interactive question-and-answer sessions
• Simulator-based problem-solving exercises

Who Should Attend

• Beginning automotive locksmiths
• Intermediate automotive locksmiths
• Locksmith shop owners
• Mobile automotive technicians
• Anyone looking to improve their diagnostic and troubleshooting skills

What to Bring

• Notebook or legal pad
• Pens or pencils
• Laptop or tablet (optional for notes)
• Questions from your own field experiences

Upon Completion

Students will leave with a stronger understanding of automotive diagnostics, OBD/OBD-II communication, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting techniques. They will have the confidence to approach difficult programming and security system issues using a logical, systematic diagnostic process while knowing which tools are most effective for solving common automotive locksmith problems.