How do car diagnostic tools work? This is a question that many of us might have asked at some point of time. While most car owners know that a diagnostic scanner is something that can tell you what is wrong with your car, not many people know how it actually works, the intricacies of its design, and the extent of its functionality. In this article, we take a detailed look at diagnostic tools and the way they work.
The Basic Function of a Diagnostic Scanner
As you know, many of the systems in your car – be it the fuel injection system, ignition system, or the automatic transmission system – are run by computers these days. The computers regularly collect data and send commands to various systems to ensure optimal functioning of your car. Whenever there is a problem with any part of your car, the computer flashes the MIL (malfunction indicator lamp) to let you know that something is not right and needs your attention. This is precisely where a scanning tool comes into the picture.
The computer in your car generally stores ‘trouble codes’, using which you can find out where the problem lies and how it could be sorted out. The primary job of a scanner is to retrieve and display these codes. You can then use the reference manual to find out what the code means, which part of your car has developed a problem, and then fix it.
How to Use a Car Diagnostic Tool?
The first step is to locate the OBD II (onboard diagnostics) connector in your car. It is where you should plug in your automotive scan tool. In most cars, the connector can be found just under the dashboard – to the left side of the steering column. It might differ, however, from one model to another, depending on the manufacturer. So, if you are not able to find it, use your car’s instruction manual to find out the exact location.
You should then plug in the diagnostic scanner and turn on the ignition. In some cases, the scanning tool might ask you to input certain information like the VPN, the engine type, and so on. Once you do, the scanner will search for the error codes and display them on the screen.
Different Types of Scanners and Their Functionalities
Now, the actual information you get from a scanner might differ greatly depending on the type of scanner you use. A basic scanning tool just gives you a bunch of alphanumeric codes, which you have to interpret using the instruction manual or CD ROM that accompanies the tool. You also have the option of looking up the codes on the internet.
A mid-priced scanning tool, on the other hand, can give you more information along with an error code. For instance, you might get a message that reads something like ‘P0115 Engine Coolant Temperature Malfunction’.
A highly advanced scanning tool goes a few steps further and actually gives you access to real time data from your car’s computer. You can take a look at a whole lot of data like engine load and rpm, oxygen sensor function, water and air temperature, and so on. You can even freeze frame certain data to check back later or to show it to your mechanic. Advanced scanning tools usually come with a built-in data bank that tells you what a particular code means and also gives you suggestions and tips for troubleshooting. They also have an interface for your laptop or computer, which makes the whole diagnostic process a lot easier.
Apart from reading and displaying error codes, one of the important functions of a scanning tool is to erase a particular error code once the problem is fixed. Otherwise, a trouble code might pop up even after the problem is fixed, which could lead to unnecessary confusion.
Choosing the Right Car Diagnostic Tool
A diagnostic scanner is a very useful tool to have for any car owner. While the basic function of the tool remains the same, the functionality of scanners could differ greatly depending on whether you opt for a basic, mid-priced, or advanced scanner. So, you should take a good look at all the options available at different price points and choose a automotive diagnostic scanner that suits your budget and needs perfectly.
The Basic Function of a Diagnostic Scanner
As you know, many of the systems in your car – be it the fuel injection system, ignition system, or the automatic transmission system – are run by computers these days. The computers regularly collect data and send commands to various systems to ensure optimal functioning of your car. Whenever there is a problem with any part of your car, the computer flashes the MIL (malfunction indicator lamp) to let you know that something is not right and needs your attention. This is precisely where a scanning tool comes into the picture.
The computer in your car generally stores ‘trouble codes’, using which you can find out where the problem lies and how it could be sorted out. The primary job of a scanner is to retrieve and display these codes. You can then use the reference manual to find out what the code means, which part of your car has developed a problem, and then fix it.
How to Use a Car Diagnostic Tool?
The first step is to locate the OBD II (onboard diagnostics) connector in your car. It is where you should plug in your automotive scan tool. In most cars, the connector can be found just under the dashboard – to the left side of the steering column. It might differ, however, from one model to another, depending on the manufacturer. So, if you are not able to find it, use your car’s instruction manual to find out the exact location.
You should then plug in the diagnostic scanner and turn on the ignition. In some cases, the scanning tool might ask you to input certain information like the VPN, the engine type, and so on. Once you do, the scanner will search for the error codes and display them on the screen.
Different Types of Scanners and Their Functionalities
Now, the actual information you get from a scanner might differ greatly depending on the type of scanner you use. A basic scanning tool just gives you a bunch of alphanumeric codes, which you have to interpret using the instruction manual or CD ROM that accompanies the tool. You also have the option of looking up the codes on the internet.
A mid-priced scanning tool, on the other hand, can give you more information along with an error code. For instance, you might get a message that reads something like ‘P0115 Engine Coolant Temperature Malfunction’.
A highly advanced scanning tool goes a few steps further and actually gives you access to real time data from your car’s computer. You can take a look at a whole lot of data like engine load and rpm, oxygen sensor function, water and air temperature, and so on. You can even freeze frame certain data to check back later or to show it to your mechanic. Advanced scanning tools usually come with a built-in data bank that tells you what a particular code means and also gives you suggestions and tips for troubleshooting. They also have an interface for your laptop or computer, which makes the whole diagnostic process a lot easier.
Apart from reading and displaying error codes, one of the important functions of a scanning tool is to erase a particular error code once the problem is fixed. Otherwise, a trouble code might pop up even after the problem is fixed, which could lead to unnecessary confusion.
Choosing the Right Car Diagnostic Tool
A diagnostic scanner is a very useful tool to have for any car owner. While the basic function of the tool remains the same, the functionality of scanners could differ greatly depending on whether you opt for a basic, mid-priced, or advanced scanner. So, you should take a good look at all the options available at different price points and choose a automotive diagnostic scanner that suits your budget and needs perfectly.
No comments:
Post a Comment