Introduction of OBD II Scan Tools

Certainly one of the most beneficial tool purchases you can make for you diy garage is an OBD II Scan tool. The earlier statement can not be over-stated. This particular little tool is well worth its weight in gold as well as will save you a lot of money over the life associated with your car. In case you have more than one car, it will certainly save you twice as much. What exactly is an OBD II scan tool? An OBD II scan tool basically communicates with your car's onboard computer plus tells you what code the computer is throwing as well as in case there is a problem that must be resolved. All of us have all experienced the dreaded check engine light (CEL). This small amber light may make tough women squeal and also tougher men cry. Well, I could possibly be exaggerating a lttle bit, nevertheless it can make you think of dollar signs along with your regional repair shop. Two things that shouldn't be in the same sentence. The OBD II scanner cannot simply read the codes from your car, but it can certainly also reset the check engine light. A lot of states is not going to even permit your vehicle pass the state inspection caused by a check engine light. This point alone puts a lot more emphasis on the need for diagnosing and also resolving check engine lights. Normally, you must take your car down to your regional auto mechanic's shop and ask them to read the codes for you. This will probably need a minimum charge for inspection along with diagnosis which often can easily go beyond $100. Do that twice, and fundamentally you've paid for the cost of an ODB II scanner. An ODB II scanner will not simply allow you to find solutions to many simple car problems, yet it can also provide instruction for even more complicated issues. Exactly what is the deal with OBD II? All modern cars are controlled plus managed by computer systems. These computer systems or maybe On Board Diagnostics, display your vehicles functions as it runs. They monitor as well as measure such things as the ignition timing as well as fuel injection calibrations to reading data from a variety of sensors for example your oxygen and mass airflow sensors. OBD II was released in 1996 and was made mandatory for all cars being sold in the United States. OBD II codes are alphanumeric and could be referenced in a car service manual. You just need to read the code and also look it up. The code will probably tell you where the problem is. 'If only my car could tell me what was wrong'. Guess what? It can. Types of ODB II Scanners You will find plenty of different types of scanning devices available. There are simple versions that are manufacturer specific. Additionally, there are more complex scanners that not simply read OBD II codes, but additionally earlier versions of OBD. Many are available in multiple languages. Many have LCD screens that permit you to read the codes and view graphics including charts and graphs. You may also buy extender cables which are sure to be useful. The majority of the versions with LCD screens permit you to see live engine data, record and playback stored vehicle information, as well as the ability print info through a personal computer. Reviewing your live engine data is great! Selling prices range from $30. 00 on the lower end and as much as $800 and above on the higher end. Tips on how to use the tool Making use of an OBD-II scanning tool is fairly easy. Every type of scanner will have specific performance, menus, and screens. Ensure that that you involve the owner's manual of your machine. In general terms, you must connect the scanning tool to the OBD II port of your car. The port is also called the Data Link Connector. The port are going to be more than likely located under the steering wheel and below the dashboard. It ought to be near where your knees could be while in a driving position. It is said to be located within 2 feet of the steering wheel. What you're trying to find is a 16-pin connector that looks similar to an old parallel port printer connector, for all those that remember them. The connector will most likely have a cover on it that may have a 'Diagnostics' label or symbol on it. Simply just put your scanner straight into the sport. Nearly all scanners will call for the ignition switch to be turned on. The car may or may not need to be running. Please refer to your owner's manual. The moment the device is on, navigate to the diagnostics menus. You ought to see options for code reading along with code erasing. In the code reading part, note any active codes. You ought to also see a section for pending codes. Pending codes are those that may have come up and the computer is waiting to see if they will reappear. The code will show up as one letter followed some numbers and symbols. Look at your service manual to find the meaning of the code or just make reference to the net. Repair the problem Currently that you have the code(s), you will need to correct the problem(s). The code will recognize precisely what system is having a problem and also what the problem is. It might point to an emissions problem, spark plugs, mass airflow, and even a transmission problem. As soon as you've identified the issue, you have to determine how you're going to fix it. In case it is inside your level of skill, by all means fix it. In case the problems above your level of skill, you might ought to seek specialist. Right after you've rectified the problem, you can right now use your scan tool to reset the check engine light (CEL). An OBD II scan tool can easily help you save lots of worry as well as anguish whenever it comes to the examine engine light(CEL). You can perform a lot of the diagnostics from right behind the driver seat. You no more have to be a victim of check engine light(CEL) anguish. People also don't need to be a hostage and at the mercy of your nearby auto mechanic. Though all check engine lights(CEL) are essential and should be investigated, you may choose in case the problem is urgent or perhaps whether you have a little bit of time just before it needs to be addressed. Through the use of a scan tool, you may save yourself money in diagnostic fees that would usually be paid to your mechanic. You may possibly let your mechanic know what the code is and they could go directly to the issue. That will save you labor charges. Purchasing an OBD II scan tool as soon as you can also buy the best you can afford. It will certainly take a load of worry off your shoulders plus help be sure your reassurance! There are many OBD II scan tools available in the market currently and the companies producing this device still increase in number. Many products have a higher price in comparison with others due to the fact they have more advanced features. The selling prices of OBD II scan tools range from $250-$2500. As a way to get the best value for your money, you ought to remember some points in shopping for a scanner for your vehicle.