As information technology has been massively integrated into the automotive industry in the past decades, there has been a revolutionary diagnostic tool that was developed for reading fault codes from vehicle computers. Car mechanics have been using this kind of software for a long period, but as computers are even more integrated with vehicles’ internal components, this software is regularly updated and developed furthermore. A regular car diagnostic test is recommended and is a good way of keeping the vehicle’s well-being in perfect condition.
As an example, a general check engine light is diagnosed and cleared through the diagnostic tool. Furthermore, a simple scan that collects data from the car’s computer such as engine coolant and oil temperature, fuel consumption, brakes, and electrical impulses can be performed, and results are presented only a couple of minutes later as an outcome of performance and fault codes. The tool can also check and detect issues related to the vehicle’s transmission, exhaust, and sensors.
The On-Board-Diagnostic (OBD) II scanner is commonly known as the standard diagnostic tool, and all vehicles with a production date after 1996 are equipped with an OBD II port, located usually near the steering wheel under the dashboard, which is easily accessible. Some OBD II diagnostic tools even have Bluetooth integration at the port, in addition to a tablet, for an easy and comfortable diagnostic process. However, reading the fault codes can be a difficult part. Sometimes, it is not a straightforward process to fix a problem only by accessing trouble codes, especially with personal (DIY) diagnostic tools.
Prices for auto diagnostics differ, depending on the in-built features and capabilities. DIY diagnostic tools can start from as low as £25 ($30), up to around £415 ($500) for professional ones. Undoubtedly, for every car mechanic, an investment in an advanced OBD II scanner is of great importance. On the other side, car enthusiasts may also want to purchase an OBD II scanner and run scans on their vehicles, but it is worth mentioning that sometimes proper professional diagnostic tests supervised by mechanics at dealer shops have to be performed, in order to deal with potentially dangerous malfunctions of the vehicle that could occur in the long run. Some of the most popular OBD II scanners include the Innova CarScan models, BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool, and Bosch ADS 625 Diagnostic Scan Tool, in addition to many other possibilities on the market.
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