Modern cars require a diagnostic scan tool to fix problems due to advanced technology. The On-Board Diagnostic Information System (OBD-II) is the standard computer system in most automobiles today, which requires a special diagnostic scan tool to read error codes. Mechanics use the tool to determine the specific system error causing the failure. The scan tool has become more affordable in the last decade and returns special codes that must be matched to a dealer repair manual. The OBD-II system must be reset after the car has been repaired.
Most of today’s modern cars are packed with technology and gadgets. This technology provides comfort and efficiency in a car’s engine and cabin. Due to this advanced technology, a diagnostic scan tool is required to fix problems in modern cars. This tool plugs into the processor port of the vehicle’s computer and reports any abnormalities with special error codes.
An On-Board Diagnostic Information System (OBD-II) is the standard computer system in most automobiles today. This system was built in an effort to help auto manufacturers maintain fuel emissions standards. The OBD-II system requires a special diagnostic scan tool to read error codes from the computer. This system typically manages fuel economy, car timing, and performance characteristics.
Today’s cars often have a special check engine light on the instrument panel. This light illuminates when the car’s diagnostic system recognizes a fault condition. There are many possible causes that can trigger a check engine light. Mechanics use the diagnostic scan tool to determine which specific system error is causing the failure. Without this tool, diagnostics would be extremely difficult.
Older cars were mostly built with mechanical devices with limited diagnostic automation. This required a mechanic to have trouble solving problems that were more of an art than a science. Today’s mechanics depend on the diagnostic scan tool to determine the mechanical problems of the vehicle.
The initial versions of the scan tool were extremely expensive. This made auto repair virtually impossible for a home mechanic. In the last decade, the diagnostic scan tool has become more affordable. Today it is available in a small battery powered unit and can be easily connected to the car’s OBD-II port.
The scan tool returns special codes that are based on the dealer’s computer specifications. These codes must be matched to a dealer repair manual to determine the fault condition. Most auto repair manuals can be purchased directly from the dealer. This manual is a complete manual on how to fix the specific error conditions inside the car.
Once a car has been repaired by a mechanic, the OBD-II system must be reset. This reset option is usually done with the diagnostic scan tool. If the system is not reset, the controller will give false error code readings. This is usually represented by a flashing check engine light after leaving the repair shop. The only other method to reset this error condition is to disconnect the battery for several minutes.
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