Q&A: Autel's Gary DeLuca Discusses a New Approach to Automotive HVAC Service
Automotive HVAC and thermal management systems have evolved significantly, but the tools and diagnostic methods technicians rely on haven't always kept pace. As vehicle systems become more complex, technicians need new ways to identify problems, complete repairs efficiently, and verify their work.
Autel is looking to address these challenges with its AC909 and a dedicated HVAC and thermal management event scheduled for October 30 in Port Washington, New York.
PTEN Editor-in-Chief Nadine Atiya spoke with Gary DeLuca, founder of Autel USA, about the development of the AC909, the need for a different approach to HVAC diagnostics, and what technicians and educators can expect from the event.
Q: What led Autel to organize a dedicated HVAC and thermal management event?
A: The training and testing equipment needed to properly diagnose HVAC and thermal management systems hasn't kept up with the technology over the last 25 years. Unfortunately, technicians' training and diagnostic equipment have largely been stuck in the 1990s. Properly diagnosing and servicing modern thermal management systems requires advancements in tooling and a new, data-driven approach, which Autel has developed.
Q: You were closely involved in developing the MaxiAC AC909. What challenges in the industry made you recognize the need for a different approach to A/C service?
A: The challenge was finding a solution to a vehicle's problem in a timely manner. We can all fix things, but we need to fix them efficiently while reducing comebacks and identifying leaks. With the development of the AC909, we've combined specially designed tooling with a new approach to technician education. This helps streamline the diagnostic process and improves a technician's ability to verify a repair.
Q: What has the response to the AC909 been like, and did that response influence the decision to host this event?
A: The response has been phenomenal. Technicians and college instructors are traveling from across the country to attend the event.
Under my leadership, Autel wanted to introduce a new diagnostic approach that would create excitement throughout the automotive industry. Everyone attending will have an opportunity to see something different from what they're accustomed to.
Q: You've described the AC909 as a different approach to A/C service. What sets it apart from traditional service methods?
A: First, we need to define what A/C service really means. A complete professional A/C service goes far beyond removing, recycling, and recharging refrigerant using a recovery, recycling, and recharging machine.
Technicians need to evaluate four loops: the electrical loop, refrigerant loop, air loop, and coolant loop.
The AC909 allows technicians to evaluate all four within one tool. With this approach, we can diagnose a vehicle and understand what's happening within approximately 10 minutes.
Q: What can attendees expect from the October 30 event, and what kind of experience are you hoping to create?
A: I learned a long time ago that teaching technicians how to improve their skills through information helps them recognize the value of upgrading their tooling and making their jobs easier.
The focus isn't simply on demonstrating a product to sell. It's about giving technicians information that can change how they approach their work.
There hasn't been a significant change in the automotive HVAC industry in 25 years. I believe this event will mark the beginning of a new era of change.
Q: Who would benefit most from attending? Is the event geared toward experienced A/C technicians, or is there value for technicians and educators at different experience levels?
A: This event is for everybody. At my core, I'm a teacher and an educator.
I started working in my father's repair shop when I was 12 years old. I earned a degree in automotive technology and have spent more than 40 years as a shop owner and trainer. I also started Autel USA 24 years ago.
My success has been based on change. If we don't change, we can't move forward. I want attendees to understand why I've taken this approach and why I believe it's important for the automotive industry.
Q: For someone who's heard about the AC909 but hasn't registered for the event, what would you want them to know?
A: Be prepared to learn new ways of diagnosing and repairing automotive HVAC and thermal management systems from start to finish.
This isn't about connecting a tool and simply looking at gauge readings. It's about taking a comprehensive approach to the entire diagnostic and repair process, from beginning to end. I believe this event will provide technicians and instructors with a new perspective, and I'm excited to be part of it.
The training will run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $249 and include continental breakfast, snacks and lunch. Seating is limited. To register, visit autel.cc/hvac-training-ny. To learn more about the AC909D, visit autel.us/product/maxihvac-ac909/.