The Difference between a Diagnostic Scan Tool and a Code Reader

Is a diagnostic scan tool the same as a code reader? This is something that many people wonder, as these two terms are often used interchangeably by many. The short answer to the question is – no. While there is a certain amount of overlap between the two tools in terms of functionality, they are not quite the same in terms of features and what they are capable of doing. 

In this article, we take a look at the difference between a diagnostic scan tool and a code reader. 

The Common Features

First, let us take a look at the common features between the two tools. Both a diagnostic scanner and a code reader can read and clear error codes. As you probably already know, your vehicle has an OBD (onboard diagnostics) which is in charge of most of the systems including fuel injection, automatic transmission, ignition, and many more. Sensors located throughout the vehicle send data to OBD to make sure the vehicle functions as efficiently as possible. Whenever there is a problem with the vehicle, the OBD detects it, makes a note of it in the form of an error code, and alerts you by flashing the check engine light or any other indicator. 

Now, the job of a diagnostic scan tool or a code reader is to communicate with the OBD, read the error code, and display it so that you can locate the source of the problem. These tools are also capable of clearing the error codes, which is a very important feature as well. If the error code is not cleared, the check engine light might still be on, even after the issue has been resolved. The similarity between the two types of tools ends right here. 

The Differences

A code reader, as the name itself indicates, is designed to read and clear the error code. You have to find out what the code means by checking the instruction manual or by doing an online search. 

A diagnostic scanner, on the other hand, can do a lot more than merely reading and clearing codes. It can display the error code as well as its definition, so you do not have to go online or reach for the manual to find out what the code means. It can also show you the live data from the sensors in your vehicle, which can be very helpful in diagnosing the problem. It also has the capability to record and play back live data. 

A diagnostic tool is also capable of reading manufacturer or pending codes, which a normal code reader cannot read. It also provides you with troubleshooting information and tips, which makes it easier for you to locate and fix the problem with your vehicle. 

The most advanced diagnostic tools available on the market today are actually capable of doing a lot more and they even come with built-in testing equipment like multi-meters. These are, however, professional grade equipments that are meant for a workshop like setting. 

Diagnostic Scan Tool vs. Code Reader

So, which one is the right choice for you? It depends on two important factors – your budget and your technical knowledge. 

A basic code reader is cheap and can fit within the smallest of budgets. A diagnostic scanner, on the other hand, is more expensive. Similarly, a code reader is very easy to operate whereas you need a little bit of technical knowledge to be able to use a mid-level or advanced diagnostic tool. So, you should keep these factors in mind while choosing a tool for your vehicle. 

Remember – it is not a question of one tool being better or worse than the other. A code reader and a diagnostic scanner simply differ in their range of features and functionality. So, you really cannot go wrong with either of them. 

If you do decide to go for a diagnostic scan tool, make sure you buy from a reputed, reliable manufacturer. A high quality scanning tool is a long term investment and can last you a long time if used and maintained properly. You will also get back the money you spend on the tool, as you can save yourself a trip to the workshop nearby every time there is a problem with your vehicle. 

Here Is How an Automotive Diagnostic Scanner Can Help You Save Money

What do you do when the check engine light in your car comes on? You are most likely to go to the nearest automobile service center to find out what the problem is. You are not alone in doing so, as it is the default response of many car owners in Australia – who do not own an automotive diagnostic scanner – whenever there is an indication that there is something wrong with their vehicle. 

It is perfectly understandable why you, or any other car owner for that matter, would want to rush to the nearest workshop as soon as the indicator starts flashing on. In most cases, you simply do not know if it is a serious problem or if you can afford to get it checked at your leisure. So, a quick trip to the mechanic is inevitable in such cases. There is, however, one problem with such trips – it costs you money. 

The Dilemma of Diagnostic Fees

Perhaps the single biggest reason why you, as a car owner, should invest in an automotive diagnostic scanner is that each and every trip to the mechanic shop costs you money. 

Flat Fees

Many service centers tend to charge a flat fee, which is usually an hourly rate – to diagnose the problems in vehicles. The problem with such a system is that the hourly rate could be as high as $100. Moreover, in many cases, the mechanic might find out what is wrong with your vehicle very quickly, but will still charge you the hourly rate. For instance, if he diagnoses the problem in 15 minutes, you still have to pay $100, which is meant for one full hour. 

Double Charges

In some cases, there is a labor overlap involved between diagnosis and the actual repair process. For instance, if there is a problem with your brake, the mechanic needs to remove the wheels to find out what the problem is. Once he tells you what the issue is, you need to pay a diagnostic fee. If you decide to get it fixed right away, the mechanic might replace the brakes, but charge you full labor on the brake job, which is unfair if you think about it. 

As part of the diagnostic process, the mechanic has already removed the wheels and inspected the brakes and you have already paid for it in full. The only thing remains to be done now is to replace the brakes, but the mechanic might charge you what he usually does for a full-on brake job. In this case, it is not applicable as 50% of the work is already done as part of the diagnostic process and you have also paid for it. Basically, they double-dip by charging you for the diagnostic process as well as the actual repair and replacement process, even though there is a considerable overlap in the process. 

Minor Problem, Full Fees

In some cases, the problem with your car could be so trivial that you need not have bothered to go to the service shop at all. You could have either tended to it later or fixed it yourself. Still, you have to pay the full diagnostic fees. 

This is not to say that you should go to a mechanic shop at all. Automobile experts offer an invaluable service and are necessary in most cases. However, you should go there only when you know what the problem is and if you cannot fix it yourself. You can do so only if you have an automotive diagnostic scanner with you. 

Scanner Saves You Money

An automotive scan tool is designed to simplify the diagnostic process greatly. All you need to do is – plug it in, start your engine, and check the display for the error codes. Now, if you have a basic code reader, you might only get an alphanumeric code, the meaning of which you have to look up in an instruction manual or on the internet. 

If you have a mid-level or advanced scanner, you might receive a whole lot of information including error code, the definition for the same, troubleshooting information, and a lot more. Using the information, you can precisely locate the issue and then decide if it is something you can fix yourself or not. If you can, you can save a whole lot of money. If not, you still end up saving the diagnostic fees, as you can simply tell the mechanic what the issue is and get it fixed.