How to use auto scan

In 1996, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) mandated that the computer interface for all vehicles sold in the United States meet a common standard. This means that consumers could go to an auto parts store and pick up a cheap scanner to extract the codes from their ECM. This saved consumers hundreds of dollars because they did not have to pay a car dealer to do so.

While this is good for an inexperienced mechanic, you still need to know how to use these tools correctly. Scanners range from $ 20 units that do nothing more than read ECM code, to highly sophisticated units that require connection to a computer and regular software updates. A sophisticated scanner will cost thousands of dollars and is not practical for an inexperienced mechanic.

There are some simple steps to use the scanner. First, you need to locate the OBDII port on your vehicle. In almost all cars currently in production, the port is located under the dash near the driver's door. Look for a white or yellow connector that looks like it belongs to your home PC.

Once you have located the OBDII port on the vehicle, you can proceed to the next step. Make sure the car and scan tool are turned off; Connect the connector of the scan tool to the ODBII port of the vehicle. Once you have the scan tool connected to the vehicle, turn on the scan tool.

In some tools, you'll need to follow the prompts on your computer screen, but in most cases, this is the time to turn the vehicle's ignition switch to the on position. Don't start the car yet. The tool will start communicating with the ECM and read any trouble codes that exist in memory. On lower priced scanners, you will only see the code number on the screen. You will need to contact your local dealer or check the documentation that comes with the scanner to determine the meaning of that code.

In some cases they can have multiple meanings, so once you have the code, check all possible causes before replacing any part. engine code diagnostic tool