What Is an OBD2 Scanner and How Can It Help You Save Money?
Valerie Raskovic
If you own a vehicle made after 1995, chances are it is equipped with a fully integrated electrical system that keeps track of things like how the engine is performing, if the car is running optimally and if it is creating excessive tailpipe emissions. The system has many different sensors monitoring various variables and when something goes wrong, the system saves information about the problem. This information can be read using a device called an OBD2 scanner. An OBD2 scanner is a device that plugs into your car’s OBD2 port and is equipped on every road-legal car since 1996. It helps you read error codes and information saved in various car modules/computers.
In many cases a basic OBD2 scanner can help budget-minded car owners save money. One way an OBD2 scanner can save you money is by helping you figure out why any of the warning lights on the dashboard are on. While it may not give you the exact reason for why the check engine light is on, it may give you a code that will help you pinpoint the problem. The problem might be something simple like a loose gas cap or a broken oxygen sensor.
What can an OBD2 scanner do?
An OBD2 scanner allows you to read the trouble codes yourself and help determine the severity of the fault. Depending on the OBD2 scanner, it may require some online research to better understand the fault code and all possible causes. Once you determine the faulty component, you can replace it and use the scanner to make sure the problem is gone. Even if you are unable to make the repair on your own, even the basic understanding of the fault may help you to determine which repair shop to use. Being able to compare comparable vehicle fault repair costs within your area can help you determine a fair price for a specific repair.
Sometimes repair shops might suggest replacing parts without a proper diagnosis. This is often referred to as hitting a car with the parts cannon. While it most likely will eventually address the problem, it is likely that you will end up making unnecessary repairs. By being able to understand the fault, you can get a better grasp of what vehicle systems may be causing the issues and avoid dealing with shops that push for unnecessary repairs, replacing parts that aren't broken.
For more mechanically inclined individuals, an OBD2 scanner is a very useful tool that can help you make DIY repairs and save hundreds and even thousands of dollars on diagnostic time and labor costs. However, before replacing parts, it is important to familiarize yourself with specific fault diagnostic and testing procedures. These procedures may be referenced on various websites such as alldata.com and https://www.autozone.com/diy/repair-guides. By searching for your specific trouble code and comparing fault symptoms as well as troubleshooting guidelines, it is possible to make a professional-level repair at home.
In some cases, fault testing or new part replacement may require additional programming, which will require a more expensive bidirectional OBD scanner. This type of scanner does not just allow you to read the vehicle’s fault codes; it also allows you to give the vehicle commands and program new electrical components when required. These types of repairs generally require a strong grasp on various automotive systems and are not for everyone. If you are not an automotive professional or a seasoned car DIYer, it is best you avoid tackling repairs that involve extensive electronic testing, relearn procedures and programming.
Depending on the type of OBD2 scanner you get, you may be able to see live information about your car as it is running. This includes things like the temperature of the coolant, how fast the engine is running and how much fuel it’s using. Comparing the values within each data field with the actual normal range as set by the vehicle manufacturer can help you determine if anything is out of place or may require attention in the near future.
How can an OBD2 scanner help when buying a used car?
An OBD2 scanner can also be helpful when buying a used car. Most modern OBD2 scanners can tell if the trouble codes were recently cleared through a system called “I/M ready” which is a self-check determining if all monitors are reading data. This system may help you determine if the seller may be trying to hide any potential trouble codes by clearing them prior to sale. Once the error codes are clear, the vehicle will need to be driven for all monitors to return results, so if you check a car and any of the “I/M Ready” monitors show “not ready” it most likely indicates that the monitors were reset manually through an OBD2 scanner. In some cases, the monitors may not display the ready indication when the car is left to sit for a long time or the battery dies and it is not driven enough for all the monitors to fire. In our experience it is generally best to avoid buying used modern cars within the “I/M Ready” system showing pending or not ready, as they may be handling some faults that may not appear after you buy the car.
Which scanner is right for me?
An OBD2 scanner can help you find a vast variety of faults and potential problems. Some OBD2 scanners can connect to your smartphone wirelessly, making them fairly easy to use. Some OBD2 scanners and apps can even explain what the trouble codes mean with direct references to repair manuals and guides. They can also remind you when your car needs maintenance. Determining which scanner is right for you will depend on your understanding of various automotive systems and ability to use automotive tools and follow repair modules. If you are an automotive novice, the simplest option is often the best one; however, if you are a seasoned DIYer, a prosumer scanner may be a better fit.
OBD2 Scanner limitations
An OBD2 scanner is a tool, but it has limits. It can point to the problem; however, it often requires real automotive knowledge and experience to resolve it. Often times a single fault code may not describe the full picture, requiring additional testing and diagnostics. This is why it is important to know when to use a professional mechanic that uses advanced diagnostic equipment with years of experience and know-how.
Whether you want to understand a warning light, check a repair or inspect a used car an OBD2 scanner gives you information. This can help you make more informed decisions about your vehicle repairs and avoid unnecessary expenses.
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