For anyone who likes to get their hands dirty with car maintenance, a Car Computer Code Scanner has become an indispensable tool. Just like a doctor uses diagnostic equipment, this device allows you to understand what’s going on under the hood of your modern vehicle by reading engine fault codes.
Are investing in car computer code scanners truly worthwhile? Absolutely. They offer the quickest route to pinpointing car troubles. Without a car computer code scanner, you’re often left with no choice but to visit a mechanic just to identify the fault code. Considering that labor costs at independent garages can average around £50 per hour, owning a car computer code scanner quickly becomes a financially sound decision. When you combine a car computer code scanner with resources like Haynes AutoFix online guides, you gain the power to diagnose and fix many common car problems and electrical issues right in your own garage using basic tools.
The market offers a wide array of car computer code scanners, but their core function remains the same. Many are surprisingly affordable, costing less than a single diagnostic trip to a garage. But with so many options, how do you choose the best car computer code scanner for your needs? We’ve examined various models, with prices ranging from budget-friendly to professional-grade.
Understanding the Car Computer Code Scanner
Traditionally, a car computer code scanner was a dedicated handheld device, essentially a small diagnostic computer designed to communicate with your car’s electronic control unit (ECU). These devices can range in price from very affordable entry-level models to more expensive, feature-rich professional scanners. Regardless of the price point, a competent car computer code scanner should reliably perform these essential tasks:
- Establish communication with the vehicle’s computer system.
- Retrieve and display diagnostic fault codes.
- Provide the ability to clear stored fault codes.
It’s important to note that many basic car computer code scanners may not be able to reset service lights or manage systems like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), SRS (Supplemental Restraint System), or oil life monitors. However, comprehensive resources such as Haynes AutoFix provide step-by-step guidance on how to manage these resets and procedures.
Search for Haynes AutoFix for my car now
How Car Computer Code Scanners and OBD Work Together
OBD, which stands for On-Board Diagnostics, refers to a standardized port found in modern vehicles. This port, resembling an older style SCART connector, is the interface point for your car computer code scanner. Since January 1, 2001, all petrol passenger cars sold in Europe have been required to have an OBD port, with diesel cars following suit from 2004. This standardized 16-pin connector is known as OBD2 in regions outside of Europe and EOBD (European On-Board Diagnostics) within Europe.
The OBD port conveniently provides power to the car computer code scanner, eliminating the need for separate power sources like batteries or power cables for the scanner itself. This plug-and-play functionality makes using a car computer code scanner straightforward and accessible for any car owner wanting to understand their vehicle better.
