When the check engine light turns on in your car, it is a clear indication that something needs to be fixed. The problem could be anything from a loose gas cap or low tire pressure to a burned-out bulb. It’s best to visit a mechanic, but that often means a long wait time and high expenses. A car diagnostic scanner can save you a lot of money and time by reading the error codes from your vehicle and determining what caused them to turn on.
These scan tools are typically connected to the vehicle’s data link connector (DLC) through a cable or a dongle that wirelessly connects with your smart device. They can range from basic code readers to highly advanced bi-directional control computers with built-in testing equipment.
Driving Confidence: How a Car Diagnostic Scanner Can Keep You Informed
Besides reading the error codes, the best diagnostic tool for cars will also be able to analyze the cause of the fault and offer tips on how to fix it. Some of these devices also include a feature that can detect mileage manipulation on used vehicles, which is a great bonus for car owners.
The best diagnostic tools for cars will have the greatest level of coverage for multiple vehicle makes and models, as well as provide a variety of functions like enhanced PIDs, bi-directional controls, graphing, saving data to a PC and more. Some of these tools are designed for professional use, and they may require the purchase of additional hardware to unlock certain features.