Understanding OBD2 scanners is crucial for modern car maintenance and diagnostics. These devices have become indispensable tools for car owners and mechanics alike, providing valuable insights into a vehicle’s health. Here we address some frequently asked questions to help you understand OBD2 scanners better and how they can assist in diagnosing car issues, potentially including problems related to your car’s throttle system.
One common question is about the necessity of additional apps. Using an app alongside your OBD2 scanner is often optional, but highly recommended. These apps, like RepairSolutions2, act as powerful diagnostic assistants. They offer features that significantly enhance the scanning experience, such as ASE-verified repair recommendations, options to export scan reports for sharing or record-keeping, predictions of potential future repairs based on current data, and access to technical service bulletins that can provide deeper insights into specific vehicle problems. While a basic scan is possible without an app, these applications unlock the full potential of your OBD2 scanner, turning it into a comprehensive diagnostic tool.
Another key consideration for users is the cost of keeping their scanners up-to-date. Fortunately, OBD2 scanner updates are generally free of charge. Reputable manufacturers understand the importance of current software and vehicle data, so they typically provide updates without subscription fees. This means your initial investment in an OBD2 scanner continues to deliver value over time, without recurring costs hindering your access to the latest diagnostic capabilities.
Geographic compatibility is also an important question, especially for those living outside of North America or near border regions. While OBD2 scanners are designed to work with a wide range of vehicles, including most domestic, foreign, and Asian makes, their operational range is usually limited to the United States and Canada. This regional restriction is due to the adherence to North American OBD protocols in the design and manufacturing of these devices. For users in Mexico, compatibility is generally limited to US-imported vehicles. Therefore, if you are outside of the US or Canada, or driving a vehicle not intended for these markets, it’s essential to verify compatibility before relying on an OBD2 scanner.
Vehicle compatibility within North America is broad, as OBD2 is a mandated standard for most vehicles. An OBD2 scanner will function on the majority of OBD2-compliant cars and trucks. However, the extent of features available can vary depending on the specific year, make, and model of your vehicle. To ensure full compatibility and feature support, it’s always advisable to utilize a coverage checker tool, if provided by the scanner manufacturer. These tools allow you to input your vehicle’s details and confirm the level of diagnostic support you can expect.
Support for specific vehicle manufacturers, like Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), is another common point of inquiry. OBD2 scanners generally offer comprehensive diagnostics for systems in older FCA vehicles, such as Jeep or Chrysler models manufactured in 2017 or earlier. For newer FCA vehicles from 2018 onwards, which often require AutoAuth access for full system diagnostics, standard handheld OBD2 scanners may have limitations. While they can still perform basic functions like TPMS relearn and access live data, advanced features such as code clearing, oil resets, and battery initialization may be restricted without AutoAuth. For users needing full access to newer FCA vehicles, specialized tools like the Innova 7111 tablet, which supports AutoAuth, might be necessary.
It’s also important to understand the functional limits of OBD2 scanners. These tools are designed for diagnostics and do not have the capability to reprogram vehicle computers. Similarly, key fob programming is beyond the scope of standard OBD2 scanner functions. These are specialized procedures that often require dealer-level tools or specific aftermarket programming equipment.
Finally, a practical question often arises concerning vehicles that won’t start. OBD2 scanners require the vehicle to be in a condition where it can at least crank, if not fully start. These scanners communicate with the vehicle’s Electronic Control Units (ECUs), which need to be powered and operational for communication to occur. If a vehicle is completely unable to start or crank, the OBD2 scanner will likely not be able to establish a connection with the ECU, rendering it ineffective for diagnosis in such situations. Therefore, for OBD2 diagnostics, a minimum level of vehicle electrical and system functionality is necessary.
