With the growing complexity of automobiles, the tools needed to work on these new automobiles are becoming more complicated and expensive in many cases. One of these tools is code reader.
As some of the modern automobiles have been equipped with OBD II technology, reading the trouble codes requires a good OBDII code reader. Especially for home mechanics and small shops, it owes a great popularity. This code reader has the ability of scanning and clearing out fault codes from your automobile’s computer. If something wrong happens to your car, you can easily follow the product descriptions and use it to diagnose your car even though you never used it. When connecting it to your car, the codes will appear on the screen where their definitions are clearly displayed. You can decide which one to clear out by understanding the problem correctly. Thus, auto manufacturers began integrating on-board diagnostic (OBD) systems, which continuously monitor the vehicle’s functions. For example, if an engine problem appears and it is serious enough, the “check engine” light goes on, which gives the driver indication that it is time for a repair. Thanks to the OBDII diagnostic systems, people nowadays are able to diagnose their cars through themselves.
Here are some tips for you to using the car code reader:
1
Open the driver’s-side door and look under the dash for the trapezoidal diagnostic link connector (DLC). Since the implementation of OBD II, it is mandated that all DLCs be located within two feet of the steering wheel. Most are located under the driver’s-side dash on either side of the steering wheel column. However, this is not the case for some models. Refer to the owner’s manual of the vehicle if necessary to locate the DLC.
2
Get rid of DLC cover if there is one. Some vehicles don’t employ DLC covers. The covers simply pull off.
3
Let the code reader’s plug insert into the DLC outlet. This outlet is easily identified, since it is similar in shape to the code reader’s plug. The vehicle’s battery will provide power to the code reader.
4
Turn the ignition key to the “on” position without starting the engine. This will provide power to all electrical components and illuminate the instrument panel lights.
5
Read the menu of the code reader and use the key or arrow to move to the “read codes” or “DTCs” (diagnostic trouble codes) option. Since code readers are made by many manufacturers and feature slightly different options, you will need to read the manual of the code reader to fully understand all of its functions.
6
Press the “enter” key, if applicable, once the “read codes” or “DTCs” option has been selected. Refer to the code reader manual to determine which DTC triggered the malfunction indicator lamp (MI, also known as the check engine light or service engine light).
7
Clear the code, if applicable and desired (some inexpensive models simply read codes), by scrolling to the “erase code” selection and pressing enter. Some code readers may feature an “erase” button which simply needs to be pressed.
8
Wait until the “command set” message appears on the onscreen menu of the code reader.
