How to use an auto diagnostic scanner
When driving down the road and you see the check engine light come on, you don’t automatically know what could be wrong. Your vehicle is trying to tell you something, that something isn’t right, and you should have it looked at. This is where an auto diagnostic scanner tool comes in. If you own one, great, you can pull over and check it on the spot, or you can check it when you get home. Having one of these tools really is about convenience more than anything. Just having the ability to diagnose your car on your time, and not having to take it to a shop after work, or wait for them to open in the morning.
Most auto diagnostic scanners will give you a very detailed description of what is wrong, others will give you three to four of the main causes. It works with most automobiles manufactured after 1996. Basically, when you see the check engine light come on, locate the OBD-II connector, which is usually located under the steering wheel is most vehicles. It is rectangular in shape and has a 16 hole pin-out. Plug your scanner into the port and turn on your car, but don’t start the engine. Most scanners will have a set of instructions that you will have to follow and it will display one or multiple DTCs, which you should write down. After this has been completed, you can clear the check engine light if you want, make sure to read your vehicles manually to be sure you are doing it right.
After you reset the check engine light, you want to figure out if the DTC code the OBD-II scanner gave you is a hard or soft code. Hard codes can point to a big issue that needs immediate attention. Soft codes are issues that need to be fixed, but you can still operate the vehicle. Show the codes to your local auto part store if you want further clarification, most DTC codes are also available on the internet. If you are able to find the exact issue and code then you can try to repair the issue yourself if you feel you are capable. Most hard code issues should be addressed by a certified mechanic. Soft codes such as replacing spark plugs or O2 sensors can be handled by the vehicle owner.
When looking at the code, it will point you to the area that is having the issue. So you may not be able to pin point the exact issue at the time. Looking the DTC codes up will give you a better explanation of the issue. You have to remember that in some states, you will have to get the check engine light problem fixed, because it can cause you to fail your emissions test. Even if the problem doesn’t effect how your car runs, it will still throw the check engine light and you will have to get it looked at before your next emission test.
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