Why Should You Own a Car Diagnostic Tool?

Our vehicles are not infallible, and when something inevitably goes wrong, you may struggle to figure out the problem without a car diagnostic tool. Well, you could just call roadside assistance or your trusted mechanic and wait around helplessly for however long it takes. But, for all you know, the problem could be something as minor as a blown fuse, or more serious engine trouble that requires professional intervention.

This simple, high-tech, tool can interface with your car's computer system to check all the electrical components to find out exactly where the problem lies. These scanners detect 'error codes' or 'trouble codes', making it easy to isolate and attend to a problem area. If you have a little know-how, this may even be something you can fix yourself, which could save you a lot of time and money you'd otherwise spend on the experts having to physically check and diagnose the problem.

Types of Vehicle Diagnostic Software

There is a variety of car diagnostic tools and software out there, but quality products need to be weeded out from those that would be a waste of money. Most of these tools are relatively simple, plugging into the diagnostic port or connecting via Bluetooth so that you can easily access information on the internal operations of your car. However, there are some things you will need to know before making a purchase of an on-board diagnostics (OBD) tool.

Knowing the difference between OBD-I and OBD-II is vitally important, since neither are universal or interchangeable. OBD-I tools only work on specific makes and models from before 1996, while the OBD-II models work on all modern vehicles that have the newer car diagnostic computer software introduced after that date. The main advantage of the latter is that an OBD-II unit works on every type of car rather than being model-specific. There is also a difference between a code reader and a scanner. Whereas readers only report error code, scanners give you a broader scope of data.

The best professional car diagnostic software can pick up a large number of problems. While you don't need to be a programmer to read them, knowing what the associated codes are will be the key to knowing where the problem lies. In general, there are four categories that an OBD-II tool can assess, with numerous sub-systems under each:

• Powertrain (including transmission and engine codes)
• Chassis (includes ABS )
• Body (with airconditioning and airbags)
• Wiring

Top Car Diagnostic Software and Mobile Apps

Vehicle diagnostic software is packaged in a variety of different ways. You could go for the more independent car diagnostic scanner tool, which is able to both scan your vehicle and relay the results directly to you. However, there are numerous apps you can find for your phone, whether it be Android or iOS, that work in tandem with a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth-enabled tool to scan your car and then turn your mobile device into a reader for that information. Similarly, you could use an iPad or tablet to review the results of the testing.

Modern cars generally use some form of the OBD-II tool mentioned above. Thus, it should come as no surprise that the mobile applications all work on the same principles. Combining an OBD-II tool with your smartphone turns your car into a smart one, too. Standard features on most of these apps also allow you to export reports as pdf files to be reviewed later, or you can email them directly to the manufacturer or your mechanic to work out a repair plan.

There may be compatibility issues with some phones, though, or even with the electric components of the car you are trying to scan. This is sometimes because the installed protocols fall out of date, which is more common for premium apps if you go the free-to-use route. Updating to the latest version often solves the problem, or you can contact the developer for help. This is usually a lot easier than it would be to contact the manufacturer of a handheld scanner if you run into similar problems.

Many of these scanners and apps use top car diagnostic software compatible with either Windows or Mac computers, so you can email the report or compare them with online searches to determine the best way to fix any potential problems. Use this in conjunction with a handy guide to common car problems and issues such as this one.

How to Use a Car Diagnostic Tool

So, now you know what to look for in a diagnostic tool and with engine diagnostic software. But the real question remains how exactly you use the nifty little device. Regardless of whether you are using a self-contained tool or a mobile app linked to a scanner, the steps remain similar.

1. Find that port: This assumes you have a post-1996 vehicle that includes onboard OBD-II systems. It is generally found underneath the dashboard near your steering column, though you should check with your car manual to be sure.
2. Lights out: Make sure the vehicle is turned off before you connect the scanner so as to avoid causing any more damage, either to your car or the tool.
3. Tell me where it hurts: Once you turn your car on again, the scanner should begin receiving information from the onboard computer, though some require you to initiate the process manually. It then translates this into various codes that relate to vehicle functions.
4. Hit the books: Take note of the codes displayed, since most tools won't give you a detailed explanation of the problem (this may differ for mobile apps). You will then need to look up exactly what these codes mean. Thanks to the internet, you can usually just do a quick google search on your mobile phone. Similarly, the apps should redirect you to a more detailed explanation of a code when you tap the link.
5. Fix-it Felix: Once you know what the exact problem is, you can then determine if it's something you are capable of repairing yourself, or resetting via the tool if needed. You may often find a link to a help section for the related problem when you do a search for the code. Knowing what the issue is will help you get a more accurate estimate of the repair costs. However, if you feel that it is beyond your skills, you can call up your mechanic and explain the problem. Remember to make use of a reputable mechanic you can trust, or look out for these scams in car repairs.