Car diagnostic tools are essential for anyone who likes to work on their own vehicle. They are a great way to save money by eliminating the need to pay a mechanic. They can also help you find out why your Check Engine light is on or why your car won't start.
Most
modern cars have an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system that is designed to
detect faults and errors. When the OBD system finds an error or fault, it will
turn on a dashboard light or screen to indicate what part or system is faulty.
A
diagnostic scanner will connect to the OBD system via an OBD2-compliant port
and read the fault codes. It will then either display them on a screen, store
them for you, download them to a computer or website, or give you an
explanation of what each code means right from the device. Some scanners can
even clear the codes and turn off your check engine light.
If
your car is overheating or you're getting bad gas mileage, a non-contact
infrared thermometer can help. This device measures the temperature of
components that are hot while the engine is running and can help you locate a
problem quickly. It is an inexpensive tool that is easy to use, and it is
especially useful for troubleshooting problems such as break dragging or
restricted air flow.
Electrical
testing tools can also be a handy addition to your garage or workshop. A
multimeter can measure voltage, electric current and other electrical values,
while a circuit tester can test for broken wires or short circuits that can
cause a variety of issues. A voltmeter is another essential tool to have, as it
will let you know whether or not your battery is fully charged or needs to be
replaced.
Basic
and advanced diagnostic scanners can be divided into two general categories
based on how they are used: Dedicated diagnostic tools are meant to plug into
the vehicle temporarily, typically while a professional is working on it. They
will often include features such as a digital voltmeter, an oscilloscope and a
variety of other sensors and gauges.
The
other type of car
diagnostic tool is a telematics diagnostic system, which is intended to
stay in the vehicle and will report back to the owner, fleet or manufacturer
through an online connection. These systems are able to read SAEstandard and
manufacturer-proprietary codes, as well as support test and recalibration
routines for some components.
A basic automotive scan tool will cost
you around $30 to $100, and it is an affordable investment for anyone who
enjoys working on their own car. It will allow you to read the fault codes that
caused your Check Engine light to come on and can also help you fix those
problems without spending a lot of money at the dealership or auto shop. All
you need to do is locate the OBD2 port in your vehicle, which is usually
located underneath the steering wheel or on the passenger side of the
dashboard.
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