A reference trace is useful only when the relevant system, measurement method and operating conditions are comparable. A similar shape from another engine or controller is not automatically a pass standard.
Record the comparison basis
Keep vehicle variant, component identification, probe location, scale and operating state. Ask the technician which features are expected to match and which can legitimately differ. Avoid judging solely by visual resemblance.
The diagnosis should connect the trace to a specific electrical or timing question. If the reference source lacks context, state that limitation. A module should not be condemned because its screenshot differs from an unlabelled online image, nor declared healthy because one broad pattern looks familiar.
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