When it comes to automotive diagnostics, nothing can replace those diagnostic tools that used by professional mechanics and technicians. But technology has come a long way in recent years, and there are ways to resolute independent save money with car code reader .
Getting by codes
The simplest scanning tools are OBD-II code readers . These are the devices you will find at your local auto parts store. They are often affordable and can help point you in the right direction. But knowing the trouble code is only the first step in a potentially long and complicated diagnostic process.
Direct data transfer
To be a really useful car diagnostic tool, a scanner should be able to interface with the car’s computer and display live data. Some scan tools are only designed to show a long list of all the available data values, while others allow you to pull specific parameter IDs (PIDs) and create custom lists. This can be tremendously useful during the diagnostic process because it allows you to watch for problems during a test drive.
You can find decent scanners that perform these functions for under a hundred dollars, although the cheapest option may be an ELM 327 scanner. These scanners plug into your OBD2 port and use an ELM 327 microcontroller to interface your car’s computer with a phone, tablet, or laptop. You can use a USB cable or Bluetooth setup to establish the connection. With a laptop or mobile device, you can buy premium ELM 327 software and still end up spending a lot less than you would on a traditional scanner.
The Best Car Diagnostic Tools Include Diagnostic Procedures
The one thing that all affordable code readers and scan tools lack is the knowledge base that the best car diagnostic tools often come with. In addition to pulling codes and displaying data in a highly efficient manner, professional scanners provide technicians with diagnostic procedures to follow. In some cases, they may include instructions to test the working condition of specific parts. Many shops also have access to programs like Mitchell and Alldata, which provide invaluable diagnostic flow charts and testing procedures.