Systems and methods for capturing and analyzing significant parameter data from vehicle systems whenever a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is triggered. A multi-dimensional matrix is constructed, with vehicles, DTCs, and parameter data comprising three dimensions of the matrix. The
data matrix is populated with DTC and parameter data from many different vehicles, either when vehicles are taken to a dealer for service, or via
wireless data download. Time can be added as a
fourth dimension of the matrix, providing an indication of whether a particular
system or component is temporally degrading. When sufficient data is accumulated, the
data matrix is pre-processed, features are extracted from the data, and the features are classified, using a variety of mathematical techniques. Trained classifiers are then used to diagnose the
root cause of any particular fault
signal, and also to provide a prognosis of
system health and remaining useful life.