Car diagnostic tools and OBD2 scanners work by scanning a car’s components and systems, like a stethoscope for vehicle electronics, to help look for any issues that might be present with parts like the engine, ignition system, transmission, oil tank, accelerator, and more.

However, since these tests need special devices and expertise to be read accurately, they are usually carried out by mechanics at garages or MOT testing stations.

OBD Scanners

A vehicle diagnostic tool is a diagnostic scanner that can be plugged into an OBD (OBD I) or OBD2  (OBD II) socket to read and clear codes, as well as view data readouts from various sensors. This can be used to help diagnose problems with a vehicle.

OBD stands for On-Board Diagnostics. This acronym is used to identify a device that can be connected to a car or other vehicle via the OBD port or OBD2 port usually via an OBD cable.

Data collected via a diagnostic scanner can reveal:

• Trouble codes: These cryptic codes point to potential problems, like a faulty sensor or failing component.
• Live sensor data: See real-time readings from various sensors, helping pinpoint the issue’s source.
• System health reports: Get an overall picture of the car’s health, identifying areas needing attention.

What is an OBD2 Port?

An On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) port is a universal 16-pin interface that provides access to your vehicle’s internal computer. This port is typically located beneath the driver’s side dashboard and allows technicians and owners to retrieve critical diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), monitor real-time engine performance, and verify emissions compliance using a digital diagnostic tool.

Benefits of using diagnostic tools?

For some jobs, especially on cars with complex electronics (which is the vast majority on the road these days) a diagnostic scanner is fairly essential now, as well as meaning you can get the job done yourself without having to refer the customer to the main dealer, having one means

• Faster and more accurate diagnoses: Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to targeted repairs.
• Increased customer satisfaction: Solve problems quickly, keeping your customers happy and coming back.
• Improved repair efficiency: Focus on the root cause, saving time and money on unnecessary repairs.

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What are the different types of car diagnostic tools?

Car diagnostic tools usually refer to the OBD or OBD2 tools used for diagnosing engine management, and electrical or mechanical faults with a car, but there are several other tools which fall into this category.

These are the top 5 types of car diagnostic scanners available today:

• OBD1 car scanners: used to scan Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) on old vehicles, petrol cars earlier than 2001, diesel vehicles manufactured earlier than 2004 in the UK, and any vehicle manufactured before 1996 in the USA
• OBD2 car scanners: used to scan Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) on all modern cars and vehicles
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS): used to monitor and alert to tyre pressure reduction or increase by 25% or more from manufacturers’ recommended inflation levels
• Circuit Testers and Multimeters: used to test electrical circuits and can be used to measure voltage, electric current, electrical resistance and electrical continuity to help determine where certain electrical problems may exist
• Car Battery Testers: a voltmeter used to test the charge in a car battery, often this functionality is combined with the ability to charge or trickle charge the battery and prevent overcharging by constantly monitoring the voltage and condition of the battery

Can I use my phone as a car diagnostic tool?

Yes, but it’s not necessarily the best tool for the job. Using an OBD or OBD2 connector and a mobile phone, some vehicle manufacturers supply software to read OBD codes and diagnose vehicle issues; some can also update or reset them, but this won’t do as much as you can with a diagnostic scanner that was built for the job.

Is it worth buying a car diagnostic tool?

Yes.  If you are a garage, workshop, MOT Bay or mobile mechanic, then having a car diagnostic machine is an essential part of your toolbox. With almost all modern cars having elements controlled and monitored by the car’s computer and OBD system, the diagnosis of a problem can be done infinitely faster, or sometimes can only really be determined by the use of a car diagnostic tool.

With older cars prior to 2001, it is somewhat harder due to the OBD standard not being in place and hence it can be more difficult or expensive to ensure you have the correct equipment to read the codes from each vehicle, but for petrol cars built since 2001 and diesel since 2004, the OBD2 standard makes owning a single diagnostic device affordable and essential for any mechanic to have available to do their job quickly and efficiently.

Choosing the right diagnostic tool for you

The best tool depends on your needs and budget. Consider:

• Garage size and workload: For larger garages and MOT Bays, an advanced scanner might be worthwhile.
• Features needed: Identify must-have features based on the vehicle makes and models you specialise in.
• Ease of use: Choose a user-friendly tool that fits your team’s skill level.

If you are unsure what you need, or just need some advice, give our sales team a call on 0113 469 0572.

We can address any questions you have and recommend the best diagnostic tools to meet your needs.

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