An Obd2 tool is the second version of the On-Board Diagnostics tool, which monitors engine functions. If a vehicle’s engine experiences a malfunction, the “Check Engine” light comes on. An OBD-II scanner can access the resulting trouble codes within the vehicle’s diagnostic computer, or power train control module. This computerized hand held device can only interact with vehicles manufactured in 1996 and later. Earlier vehicles use older diagnostic systems which vary depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Using an OBD-II scanner is relatively easy, and accessing trouble codes only takes a few minutes.
Professional diagnostic technicians also have a wealth of personal experience to draw on, and no affordable car diagnostic tool is going to provide either that or the diagnostic procedures you’d get from a tool like a MODIS or software like Alldata. Of course, that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. Like it’s done in so many other areas, the Internet has proven to be a leveler in the field of automotive diagnostics. There are a variety of free (and paid) services available that you can use in conjunction with an affordable scan tool, like an ELM Family Tools, to diagnose your check engine light.
The key thing to remember is that if you’re experiencing a problem with your car, somebody else has probably experienced it before, and he’s probably posted about it to the Internet. Our own auto repair site contains a wealth of troubleshooting information for DIYers, including solutions to many sticky diagnostic situations, so you might start there, after you’ve picked up the Car Diagnostic Tools you can afford.
It can also show and reset a DTC fault code like a scantool. Now with Mode 06 – ECU self-monitoring test results. It helps you fix your car and helps keep repair costs down! Works on any vehicle that uses the OBD 2 standard (most vehicles built after 2000, but can work for vehicles as far back as 1996). The app needs a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi OBD2 ELM327 compatible adapter to work. The adapter is small and plugs into the diagnostics socket on the car which gives your phone access. If you buy one of the cheap chineese OBD2 ELM327 Bluetooth or WiFi adapters from ebay / amazon, then make sure it’s not marked as v.2.1. This adapters are supported, but they have lot’s of bugs. PLEASE NOTE: Vehicle ECUs vary in the amount of sensors supported. This app can’t show you something, that is not provided by your car.
