How To Use an Automotive Diagnostic Tool?
When the engines emit disturbing noises, then the first move should be opening the hood. But even looking around when you can find nothing, then it is the time to use the diagnostic tool to understand the issue. With the help of the on-board diagnostic tools or OBD-II scan tools, you can find out and fix the issue. Rather, the best decision is to hire a professional mechanic.
When are the Diagnostic Tools Used?
To use the Diagnostic tools, you have to know when it should be used.
• When the light of the Check Engine is on:
The engine might not drop out, but the light could be on and it represents the engine, exhaust systems and transmissions could undergo various problems. The professionals use the diagnostic tool to decipher the reason behind it.
• Recording the performance or statistics of the vehicle:
Along with reading the engine codes, the advanced diagnostic tools record the car system’s live data measurements for the setup to receive fine-tune.
Methods to Use the Diagnostic Tools
The diagnostic tools are plug and scan, and the professionals follow one process to solve the issue.
➔ Using the Code Reader
The Code Readers are the diagnostic scan tool to detect the diagnostic trouble codes as recorded by the vehicle on detection.
➔ Plugging the Diagnostic Tool into the OBD-II port
From the on-board diagnostic (OBD-II) port, the diagnostic tools can download the data. The vehicle can detect the issues from this universal access port. Applying some fuel to the setup helps in accessing the information.
➔ Plugging the End Connector to the OBD-II port of the Vehicle
The automobile has to have a secure and good fit for the tool to communicate with the on-board computer of the vehicle.
➔ Turning the Car On
With the car codes stored in memory, the engine need not be started. If the engine has to be on, then on-board computer monitors its situation in real-time and then the car has to be started all the way.
➔ Reading the Car Codes
The vehicle creates specific codes while detecting an issue to assist in the diagnostic process. The Code Readers can download and read the codes to help the professionals.
➔ Turing the Diagnostic Tool On
The basic tools have a simple power button on the unit. If you are having a Bluetooth capable diagnostic tool, then turn the unit on from where it has been plugged into the port.
► ► Accessing the Diagnostic Scanner
The scanner starts reading the car codes automatically on the power is on. If it does not, then the professionals help to access the compatible app for the scanners capable of Bluetooth.
➔ You could have to enter the VIN number of the vehicle into the scanner if it a first-time usage.
➔ Recording the Data
➔ Once the scan is completed within a few seconds, then the error codes it had read will be displayed. You have to note down the codes is you do not get a detailed explanation regarding the code from the scanner.
➔ Download the codes stored by the scanner to your computer.
➔ The Bluetooth capable scanners facilitating the scanner apps help in connecting to the diagnostic service to retrieve more information.
► ► Optional Task – Clearing the Codes
➔ If the Check Engine light does not have to be on, then with the help of the diagnostic tool you can remove the warning light.
With the help of the internet, you can search the trouble codes to discover the common fixes to the issues. A few diagnostic tools remain plugged into the OBD – II port for delivering periodic updates about the vehicle. The mechanics can help in scanning the vehicle and bring the codes together for a head start.
