The automobile industry is always evolving and we have witnessed technology introduce features that were impossible to imagine in the early days. While the working of many new features can be difficult to understand and fix on our own, the diagnosis and fixture methods have also evolved and that’s the silver lining.
Speaking of features that have advanced with time, car testing methods have also seen major changes over the years. Therefore, it is important to know the difference between static and dynamic testing methods. This knowledge will help you understand and maintain your car better.
Gone are the days when mechanics needed to dismantle your vehicle to diagnose different issues. It is the time for software diagnosis. Vehicle software diagnosis in particular can be done easily by modern methods such as static and dynamic testing. All these modern methods such as dynamic and static testing etc can help you diagnose the problems easily and prevent further deterioration.
What is Static Testing?
Before a vehicle is launched, there are specific tests carried out to check the safety and performance features. This testing ensures a smooth and safe riding experience for the users. The same goes for vehicles going in for repairs.
Static testing, as the name suggests, is carried out when the vehicle is not in motion. Static testing is done for recalibration and scanning. It can also be done by placing cones in specific places inside the shop. This is done for checking radar systems and blind spot deductions. The following measurements are taken in static testing to ensure all parts of the vehicle are intact and in the right shape:
ANGULAR AND LINEAR VEHICLE DIMENSIONS MEASUREMENT
- External dimensions measurements (height, length, width)
- Track and wheelbase measurements
- Cargo space measurements
- Ride height measurements
- Approach, departure, and ramp angles measurements
- Linear and angular dimensions measurements
- Vehicle type approval purposes measurements
VEHICLE WEIGHT MEASUREMENT
- Gross weight measurements
- Weight distribution (per wheel, per side, and axle)
- Determining the location the of centre of mass
WHAT IS DYNAMIC TESTING?
Dynamic testing is another important type of testing in cars. As all testing ensures the proper functioning of car components, dynamic testing does the same. Unlike static testing, dynamic testing is done on the road or on testing grounds with the vehicle in motion. Dynamic testing is done to examine the physical response of an automobile’s system to different variables that change with time.
During the test drive, you may want to drive the vehicle more than just around the block to get a better idea of the vehicle’s condition. The extra miles and different conditions can all give a better overview of the vehicle’s performance. Listed below are the things to consider when a car is taken for dynamic testing:
DISTANCE
The amount of distance travelled during a test drive can matter during the testing phase. More distance travelled means a better idea about the vehicle’s mileage and condition.
FUEL
During dynamic testing, you need to take the car out on the road for a drive and it requires fuel. Some vehicles require a full tank of petrol so the vehicle is at the correct angle and pitch during the tests. Petrol prices in the UAE are changing along with the rest of the world but full tanks are a requirement of the test for some vehicles so it must be fulfilled for a proper diagnosis.
ROUTE
Planning your route is important in dynamic testing. You may want to avoid driving in the sun while testing so you can take your car out after the sunset. You also need to select a route with all the necessary parameters such as lines and signs on the road. Additionally, your vehicle may need to maintain highway speed for up to ten minutes for the completion of the dynamic test so choose the route carefully.
WEATHER
Weather can play an important role in the dynamic testing of cars. Rain, clouds, and snow can have an impact on testing as these conditions can affect the sensors. Modern cars are equipped with different types of sensors and these conditions can have an impact on them during testing.
Equipment
You must have the right equipment for testing. Apart from the difference between static and dynamic testing, not every scan tool is fit for either type of testing. Especially the testing on newer vehicles may require factory tools custom-made for testing. You should make sure the tools are fit for the job.
POST REPAIR SCAN
It is advisable to carry out a pre and post-repair scan for better diagnosis and repair. This can help point out the faults and save extra trips and cash.
Static Testing vs Dynamic Testing
The major difference between static and dynamic testing is the purpose. While static testing is done for scanning and recalibration, dynamic testing is done for fine-tuning shifting procedures and transmissions. Static testing is done on an idle vehicle while dynamic testing requires the vehicle to be in motion.
This was all about static and dynamic testing in cars. Testing are an important part of car maintenance and performance, thus it must be performed by professionals with the right equipment.
That said, if your car requires frequent visits to the mechanic due to any performance or parts issues, it is advisable to change your car. You can check out these used cars for sale in the UAE and select from a plethora of vehicles listed.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on automobiles.
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