A Guide To Selecting The Best Automotive Scan Tool

Since the advent of On Board Diagnostic II, it has become much easier to pick up error signals, interpret them and rectify the anomalies. In fact OBD-II has helped DIY car owners a lot. Whether it is the engine, the fuel supply system, the ignition system, the suspension and brake system or anything else, getting the hang of the problem has become easier than before. As soon as you get the check engine light blinking, diagnostic scan tool notify you that something is not right. However, if the light just glows and stays on, the problem may not be so serious as to necessitate a instant check. In case, the light is blinking, you just need to stop your car and check the condition of the car with an automotive scan tool. But the scan tool must be a true friend of ECU of the car. In other words, it must be able to pick up all the signals emitted by the ECU. The problem with many scanners is that many of them are not able to pick up certain signals like OEM specific signals. This indicates that picking up an diagnostic  scan tool is not an easy task. There are several brands and different models of scanners. However, if you follow a certain principle, it may become easier for you to pick up a tool.

Make, Model And Brand Of The Car

You have to ensure that the automotive scan tool you pick up is compatible with the make, model and brand of your car or truck. This is the basic necessity since there are many scanners which are not compatible with some or the other make, model or brand of automobiles. So ask the salesperson, which of the scanners are compatible with the make, model and brand of your vehicle. There are some scanners which are specifically made for Asian cars and there are some others which are specifically designed for European and US made cars. This does not mean that the scanner made for European cars cannot diagnose the fault in your car at all. However, if the ECU of your car emits some OEM specific signal that the scanner is not equipped to pick up, the problem will go unresolved. So the basic idea is to pick up a scanner that is compatible with your car in all respects. 

Communication Protocol
Cars and trucks follow different communication protocols such as CAN, LIN, Ethernet etc. This is a protocol for communication between different electronic modules of a vehicle. You must see that the scanner is compatible with the embedded communication protocol of your car or truck.

Basic or Advanced Capability?

Are you a small time diy car enthusiast or have professional level knowledge about working of a car. If you are just a small time diy car owner, a basic code reader is enough for you. Such a scanner would just be able to indicate a problem so that the car mechanic does not have to start it from scratch. 

However, if you are confident about your knowledge of cars and their workings, you should go for advanced scanners. These are costly too, but are capable of performing a wide range of functions. Apart from interpreting and sorting out engine, transmission and fuel issues, such advanced scanners are also capable of detecting and resetting airbag system, antilock brake system etc. You can go through the data sent by various sensors in the car in real time. This data may be very helpful in having an idea about the performance of the car, if you are well acquainted with such data. Moreover, a huge benefit of these advanced scanners is that most of them show the definition of the error codes displayed on the screen. So even if you are not aware of some error code, most likely some OEM level code, you get the hang of the problem right away.

Can The Scanner Be Upgraded?

This is another very important aspect of selecting an automotive scan tool. If the scanner cannot be upgraded, it may just become an obsolete piece of device in your garage. So, ensure that the scanner can be upgraded, and also try to get an idea about the price that you need to pay for each upgrade. Some companies do offer one year free upgrade. So, make sure that the one you select offers one year free upgrade.

How To Use A Car Diagnostic Scan Tool In An Easy Manner?

Modern vehicles are an epitome of technology and it is not all about traditional components or parts. In a car computers are a vital clog in the wheel and they go on to alert the drivers if something complication brews up. The engine light will bling if some untoward incident is about to happen.

With the aid of computerized spare parts, a driver can detect problems with ease. It works out to be a cost effective proposition as you do not have to run to a mechanic every time. A diagnostic scan tool will figure out the problem with ease. The scanners are easy to use and it is presented with computer aided instructions.

Let us now analyse the advantages presented forth by an automotive scan tool and how you can go on to interpret complex codes.

A Standard Diagnostic Process Is In Place

The EPA mandate in 1996, has suggested that every car manufacturer has to incorporate certain standards. This is while designing the computer interface and it is known as OBD2. This is the short form of on board diagnostics. Before this protocol came into operation, each car manufacturer has different standards of manufacturing which meant that the repair owners were not happy with lack of a standard. Finally their voices were heard.

The Computer Systems Are Scanned In A Comprehensive Manner

In modern cars, computer system is in control of most systems. Transmission system, fuel injection in combination with the varied vehicle systems and parts. As the computer system becomes smarter, it works out to be better in terms of timing and becomes an environment friendly device. The vehicles are embedded with sensors which keep on reporting back any problems from time to time. So a car owner is able to detect any grave issue before it goes on to become a major one.

If you are in possession of an automotive scan tool, there is no need to panic when the engine light bling. The problem could be detected at your own end before heading to a workshop. An owner could go on to detect the various types of car systems and then interpret them with a car manual. It is pretty easy to understand if a small functioning does occur or an issue that is a cause of urgent attention.

Affordability

The car diagnostic scan tool works out be affordable. Once upon a time it was designed for a particular car that made it difficult to be used. Since high costs were involved with the specialization, it becomes pretty difficult for a car owner to secure one. The modern versions tend to be more affordable and they return back the codes without the need of any additional information. Some others are considered to be complex, and detailed languages with multi language options need to be provided as well. If you feel that the price is on the higher side you can borrow one from the local shop or ask your friend to lend you one.

Easy Design

Scanning tools that are available in the market are easy to be used. A screen with a module is provided that a user can go on to hold in their hands. The cable is then connected to the module and then it is linked with the OBD 2 of your car. All the driver needs to do is to zero in the VIN number along with some basic information like the vehicle type along with the model. Once it is done, the instructions are provided on the screen that could be followed in an easy manner.

Problem Codes That Could Lead To Malfunctions

Once you go on to plug in the diagnostic tool, if there are problem codes it is going to return back. If you are a newbie, these problem codes may seem to be a lot confusing. If you adopt a manual approach things do go on to become a lot easy as well as the codes could be interpreted. If you are still having problems, there is more information in order to interpret the codes. Just go online and then interpret the codes as well.

Automotive Diagnostic Scanner - Carman Comparison With Launch Scanner - An Illustration Of A Couple Of Brands

For car owners, an automotive diagnostic scanner is a vital clog in the wheel. It interprets different error codes send over by a vehicle like ignition system, transmission system. The advanced versions could send messages to systems and then code them. The various issues in the systems could be diagnosed with the help of these tools. Once you figure out the problem, the onus is on you whether to opt for a garage or to solve the problem at your own end.

Modern vehicles are empowered with an in built standard diagnostic module that goes by the name of OBD2. The computer is then connected to all the systems in the vehicle with the aid of sensors. The performance parameters of the system components are being fed into the computer in an automatic manner. The computer goes on to analyse the inputs and then sends across commands to the system in question to stop or fine tune the performance. When a system malfunctions, the sensor that is incorporated in the system does send coded messages back to the computer. Different error codes interpret varied levels of malfunctioning. A device is needed to interpret and analyse the codes. At this point of time an automatic scan tool does become handy and it is a tool that you could connect to the OBD2 port and figure out the problem.

Various Types Of Diagnostic Scan Tools

The market is flooded with numerous scan tools and they possess varied abilities along with performance. Carman comparison with Launch Scanner are two popular varieties of scan tools. Let us now undertaken Carman comparison with Launch scanner and then decide which one works best for you.

Carman Comparison With Launch Scanner
As far as a Carman diagnostic scan tool evolves, it is a stand-alone product with a touchpad. For your PC it could be used as an adapter and different models are available for various vehicles.

It is empowered with a variety of functions which are -

•    Current data could be viewed in both graphics along with parameters mode
•    Flight record
•    System identification
•    DTC analysis, erasing and reading
•    Service resetting

Some special functions in the form of coding for an injector are also supported. On Windows 10 this tool runs and this could be printed via a Wi-Fi. The USB port could be used as well. The best feature is that frequent updates of the firmware could be provided and for sure this is going to enhance the performance of the tool. In fact the product is compatible with almost all the modern electronic systems.

This tool could be used in all vehicle brands and some of the prominent brands are Ford, Fiat, Lexus, and Nissan etc.

The Launch Scanner Tool

The users are able to undertake OEM diagnosis of their vehicles. Some of the features which the Launch Scanner goes on to support are

•    Functions of auto transmission
•    Relearn procedures
•    Module programming
•    Key programming
•    System functions of air bag

The best part about this Launch Scanner is that the system coverage is extra ordinary. Not only a wide range of cars is supported, large vehicles too are part of it. In fact with 34 truck brands it is compatible as well. For different brands the scanners are customized as per the needs. So by this Launch Scanner you can interpret the codes in an easy manner. Regular updates are part of the product, so the support is on a recurring basis whereby in the process more and more functions are covered. In varied series these products are classified and some of them relate to specific types of trucks.

To conclude, automotive scan tool works out to be code readers at a primary level that is powered with advanced features. Functions can increase or decrease with change in brand along with price. If you happen to be a DIY car owner you would need to be aware about the various facets of car repair.

Jumping on the gun and purchasing a high definition automotive tool would be of no use if you are not able to solve the problem at your own end.

Making The Right Use Of Diagnostic Scan Tool

In the world of advanced technology, there is no doubt that diagnostic scan tool plays an important role. In olden times, no doubt that such type of tool was the most expensive one. Even before the 1996, there were technicians who would charge quite a lot simply to diagnose the problem. Rest for repairing the damages, the price was totally different.  Thanks to new innovations, now such type of diagnostic tools comes quite handy. You can carry it anywhere and save your valuable time and money as well. Just like a code reader which is used for getting the movie tickets, it is the diagnostic tool that you can consider to be a perfect accessory for scanning your car.

Reason to Buy a Car Diagnostic Tool

If you are planning to purchase the automotive scan tool, you need to understand that it is solely a technology and not some kind of magic to be worked on. Once you plug in the check engine, there will be a code reader or even the professional scanning tool which will simply diagnose the problem but not actually fix it. In a  few cases, there are also situations where you will be solely gives the trouble code that you need to analyze and understand the diagnostic process well.

Getting a Right Diagnostic Tool

There was  a time when scanners and code readers were available from the companies that had specialty tool. This made it quite difficult for the owners to actually get the right diagnosis as and when needed. However, in recent years, things have changed quite a lot and you can now, but the inexpensive code readers or say scan tools from the store itself. There are many online and offline stores that can offer you the best quality of such option at a cost friendly solution. If you are looking out for some diagnostic scan tool which would be beyond the basic code reading and you don’t want to spend a lot of money then diagnostic tool can be the best platform to choose.

Set Things First in a Right Manner

You need to mention that ignition, fuel, and even the mechanical problems that can actually trigger out troubling codes or the data which is shown on the scan tool. This is the main reason why need to check the basics before you get carried away with what might be an actual problem. This is when a visual inspiration of battery cables, vacuum hoses and working along with the ground connection would be required.

Code Collection

To get the best of the diagnostic trouble codes is the most common use that you can avail with a scan tool. It is generally associated with a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) situation. However, code chasing is one such thing that has more significance over OBD II that is used for testing the state omission programs.

Serial Data

There can be some system issue that may not always manifest like trouble codes. That is the main reason why a scan tool which comes with the display of serial data and even the Parameter Identification Data is  a handy product. If a product has got derivability issue that do not set a code then it means, there is a problem which is related to unmistakable performance. This is an extremely easy to design concept which comes with ample of benefits. With such tool, driver don’t really have to wonder  about what could be the glowing engine light problem be or what kind of warning is the dashboard actually showing up. Instead, you can actually find it on your own without taking your car to a store. The engine light comes on when there is a power train control module on the car which receives the data from more than one censor attached to the car. This is the best tool one can opt as it gives as  accurate analysis with the problem codes immediately. This way you can understand the malfunction and its complexity level. Such type of diagnostic scan tool is extremely specialized. Earlier it were quite challenging to be used but now it has undergone a lot of changes and are available at the affordable value because of which you can easily carry it everywhere that you go.

How Advanced Automotive Scan Tool Is Different From Basic Scan Tool

If you are searching for a diagnostic scanner for your vehicle then you need to know that picking up the right diagnostic scan tool is not easy. There are a host of factors that you need to consider before picking up the most suitable one. Each car is unique and to get the best out of it you need to treat its unique way. You must also know that these are all OBD II scanners and you can get any scanner from the market to work on your car. However, the functionality and compatibility issues are the main drivers of decision making for purchasing an automotive scan tool. Let us proceed to procure the best one for your car or truck.

Want a basic automotive diagnostic scanner?

A basic diagnostic scan tool is a code reader. You can use it to read the error codes generated by different systems of your vehicle. Connect the code reader with the OBD-II and read the error types. If you are the DIY type, you can try to rectify some of these problems. If the solution seems to be beyond your reach then you need to get the car to a workshop. If it is within your reach like problems with the engine air filter, bulbs not working, antenna getting broken etc then you should attend the problem yourself. This is also a good option if you are low on budget. However, you must take note of the fact that all car models are not compatible with the basic code readers. Still, if you are a seasoned DIY and an electronic geek then you may also want an advanced scanner.

Advanced automotive scan tool

These scanners are loaded with features and functionalities. Simply put, they can detect a wide array of car system errors and also accomplish a lot of other tasks. You can get at least the following features in the advanced scanners. 

Anti-lock breaking system and air bag control – These two features are very essential for your and your car’s safety. An advanced automotive diagnostic scanner can detect errors in anti-lock breaking system, air bag system and some other critical functions of your vehicle. You can also reset the systems through this device. 

On screen information – You can see the diagnostic codes right on the screen of the scanner. This makes it easier for the user to perform the scanning process.

The ease of printing – Codes and results need to be recorded in physical copies for easy detection of problems. This calls for easy printing options like printing through wi-fi connection or through USB port etc.

Live feed – Through this feature you can get the information regarding the working of various systems in the car and sensors responsible for individual system displayed in real-time. You can get updated and precise information about the systems working in your car. The scanner will pick up any abnormality in the function of the systems.  You just need to take note of it and take step in accordance with the error reported.

Storage and data logging – A very useful feature of these advanced scanners is that information about various sensory outputs are safely stored in the sensor memory of the scanner. This makes it easy for you to access the information anytime. This is a very helpful piece of information in identifying a particular car.

Easing of data – When an error has ceased to exist the corresponding code needs to be erased. Otherwise, it will mean that the error has persisted. So erasing of data is a major feature for DIY car owners.

Sensor calibration – This is a great feature of high level sensors. You need to calibrate various sensors in the car for optimum function of these sensors. A properly calibrated sensor can give you accurate reading of various parameters of working of a car. With an advanced scanner you can calibrate various sensors and get accurate reading of performance parameters.

There are many other features that you can get in an advanced automotive diagnostic scanner. But you must see that it takes care of some of the basic functionalities for safe and comfortable driving of your car. You must also see that you can upgrade the scanner in future, if needed. This is a great facility even though it makes the scanner somewhat costly.

Two Reputed Brands Of Scan Tool - Carman Vs Launch Scanner

An automotive diagnostic scan tool is a very useful equipment for DIY car owners. It can interpret error codes sent by different systems in a vehicle such as engine management system, transmission system, ignition system, entertainment system, etc. Some advanced tools can even send coded messages to these systems and program them. You can diagnose issues involving different systems of the vehicle with the help of these tools. Once the problem is known, it is up to your capabilities, whether you want to take it to a garage or sort out the matter yourself.

In-built diagnostic module

Vehicles come with a standard on board diagnostic module, which is a computer known as OBD-II. This computer is connected to all the systems of the vehicle with the help of sensors. Data on various performance criteria of various system components is fed them into this computer automatically. The inputs are analyzed by the computer which then sends commands to the concerned system to start, stop or fine tune its performance. However, when a system is malfunctioning, the sensor attached to it sends coded messages to the computer. Different error codes translate to different types of malfunction, but you need a device to interpret the codes and diagnose the problem. It is here that an automotive diagnostic scan tool comes handy. To use this tool you have to connect it to the OBD-II to read and interpret the data.

Different brands of scan tool

The market is flush with different brands of automotive scan tools with varying degrees of performance and abilities. Carman and Launch are two reputed brands of scan tool. Let us compare their performances and decide for yourself which is best for your vehicle.

 Automotive diagnostic scan tool – Carman Vs Launch Scanner

Carman scan tools

It is a stand-alone device with a touchpad and can be used as an adapter for your PC. There are a number of models suitable for different brands of vehicles.

Supported functions

It supports functions such as DTC reading, analysis and erasing, current data view in both graphic and parameters mode, activation function, manual parameter grouping, system identification, flight record, service resetting, sensor calibration, programming of remotes, keys, injector and other components. It also supports some special functions such as coding for Injector. The tool runs on Windows 10, and you can print via Wi-Fi. You can also make use of the USB port. The best thing is that you can get frequent updates of the firmware that will enhance the performance of the tool.
The product is compatible with most of the electronic systems in vogue like ENG, ENG-2, EA, AIRBAG/ETR (SRS), CCS, ADS, BM/GM, IMMO, ASD, A/C, RB, AHLS, RST, EPS, ECS, FWDS, AC, FFH, KCS etc.

Coverage by vehicle brand

The tool is also compatible with most of the vehicle brands such as Honda, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Lexus, Subaru, Nissan, Suzuki, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Isuzu, Hyundai, Daewoo, BMW, Skoda, Volkswagen, Volvo, Opel, Ford, Fiat, Peugeot, General Motors etc.

Launch Scan Tools

Launch scan tools help the users perform OEM level diagnosis of vehicles.

Supported Functions

The scanner supports full OBDII test mode coverage, module programming, key programming, air bag system functions, auto transmission functions, relearn procedures etc.

Vehicle Coverage

The vehicle coverage of Launch scanner is awesome. It supports a range of large vehicles like trucks from Ashok Leyland, MAN, Volvo etc apart from the large number of cars. In fact ,it is compatible with at least 34 truck brands. The scanners are custom built for different brands of vehicles. This is why you can read manufacturer specific error codes by using Launch scan tools. The products undergo continuous upgrades so that support is continuous and more and more functions are covered by it.  The Products are categorized into different series ,some of which are specifically designed for trucks.

Electronic Systems And Circuits

It supports almost all electronic systems and circuits presently installed in vehicles. Moreover, you can get free software updates year after year.

Conclusion

Automotive diagnostic scan tools are primarily code readers with advanced capabilities. Functionalities increase in range or change with price and brand. But if you are a DIY car owner you need to think about your knowledge of car repair. Going overboard on purchasing a high definition automotive scan tool may be futile if you are not able to sort out the problem yourself.

Want to choose between Carman Vs. Gscan? Choose one that is just perfect fit for your brand and type of vehicle

Cars, trucks, and jeeps run on automated systems. There is automated Brake system, steering, and suspension system, transmission system, engine cooling system, fuel system et al. In fact, every piece of functionality is automated in today's’ cars and trucks. To detect problems with different systems you need scan tools. These tools can read and interpret the error messages sent by various systems in your car, truck or jeep. There are advanced scan tools which can even send messages to the different systems in a car and interpret the return message sent by the specific system. These diagnostic tools show what is wrong with a particular system.

Now that the user is aware of the problem he can take a decision about attending to the problem himself or send it to a workshop for repair. In effect, these tools are great savers of time and money. However, what you need to do is select the best one for your vehicle. There are many scan tools in the market which are marketed by different brands. All of them have their own specialization. It is up to you whether you can lay your hand on the best tool for your brand and type of vehicle or not. You can do a comparison between different brands such as a comparison between Carman and Gscan scanners.

Automotive diagnostic scan tool - Carman Vs. Gscan

Both are prominent industry leaders in their respective fields of specialization. Let us see how the two compare in terms of vehicle coverage, functionality coverage, supported special functionalities, electronic systems, and circuits coverage, after sales support, software update etc.

Carman scanner

It comes as a stand-alone tablet PC with a touchpad with a monochrome or color TFT display. It runs on Windows 10. Printing can be done via Wi-Fi as well as with the help of USB port. You can also transfer data via Bluetooth up to a distance of 30 meters. There are various and frequent software updates in keeping with changing systems and specifications.

Supported Functions

Supported functions include error code reading and analysis, data erasing, data view, sensor calibration, manual parameter grouping, flight record, activation function, service resetting, system identification, key programming, remote programming, injector and other components programming etc.

Special Functionalities

There are some special functions of the device that includes coding for Injector and other components.

These scanners are also supported by almost all the electronic systems and circuits in vogue like ENG, EPS, AHLS, ECS, ENG-2, AIRBAG/ETR (SRS), BM/GM, CCS, EA, ASD, RB, ADS, IMMO, RST, A/C, , AAC, FFH, FWDS, KCS and many more.

Coverage by Vehicle Brand

Carman scanners are compatible with a wide variety of brands like Toyota, Lexus, Mitsubishi, Honda, Proton, Subaru, Nissan, Suzuki, Isuzu, Mazda, Daewoo, BMW, Hyundai, Mercedes Benz, Opel, Fiat, Volkswagen, Saab, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Peugeot, Alfa Romeo, Volvo, Ford, General Motors, Chrysler, Ford, Chrysler (only jeeps) and some more.

After Sales Support

The company offers good after-sales support.

Software update

There are frequent upgrades in the market.

Gscan canners

This is another OEM level scanner in the market that is very popular with Asian vehicle brands. It can serve a wide variety of vehicles for those brads. It comes with different Function Keys, TFT Color monitor, touch screen, Power status LED, USB slot, D-Sub connector for main DLC cable, SD Memory Card slot, Reset Port, etc.

Supported Functions

Functionalities include automatic system search, flight recording, diagnosis of multiple systems using DTC, code retrieval, description and information, actuation test, current data, system reset, initializations, theft deterrent relearns, security re-sets, key programming etc.

Special Functionalities

You can also get some manufacturer specific functionalities like Injector Specific Data, Idle Air Volume Relearn, Transmitter Code Saving, Idle RPM Correction, Auto Drive Position Setting, Intelligent Key Programming, Leakage Test, Airmatic System Actuation, Data Graphing Function, Error Log Capture, Steering Angle Sensor Calibration, BMW Oil Service Light Reset, VW/Audi Electronic Parking Brake, Honda EGR Test Function, Fuel Leakage Test Function in Hyundai, Immobilizer Key Coding etc.

Vehicle Coverage

Vehicle coverage includes Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Kia, Ssangyong, Hyundai Mercedes Benz etc. The scanner has got several proprietary DLC connectors which can give you an OEM level access to many car lines.

Compare all these parameters of Automotive diagnostic scan tool - Carman Vs. Gscan and select one as per the brand and type of your vehicle