When I suggested thinking more modern, I was thinking perhaps that while there is no doubt that the manufacturers, seem not to even provide their dealerships with all the digital info the dealerships would like to have, and that dealership systems receive factory updates as and when, also that the dealerships often seem not to be able to resolve issues without contacting the factory tec department, and even then...?
The independent garages tend to depend upon the likes of Snap-On systems capable of digital interrogation of systems fitted to a wide range of different manufacturers and models, though they have to pay a monthly fee to Snap-on in order to receive the latest updates on the various makes and models...
It would seem that as ever the aftermarket has catered for the enthusiast in terms of providing both the hardware and software to connect to one`s vehicle systems and to carry out basic checks. A quick look on the interweb and you will find numerous options... i.e. OBD II code reader programming to load into one`s own laptop... Or if you prefer a reader that can plug into the diagnostic socket in the car that can blue tooth connect to an Android phone... You might be surprised just how cheaply such kit can be bought for..
It does seem that some main dealerships seem to automatically start out by advising that first off you will be charged for a diagnostic bay session, which could be circa £200, after which they will advise of the probable fault, and whatever else may follow on...!
Seems a good idea indeed to prepare youngsters to be self reliant at least to some degree, though I think the issue of whole issue of private personal transport may just go EV and only for those and such as those in time..
Of course my thinking on any of this kit will be well out of date..
