Car OBD Scanner scans components like the engine, transmission, and fuel system for issues. These tests require specialized equipment and expertise, typically performed by scanners in garages or testing stations.

 

Basic knowledge of Car OBD Scanner

An OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner connects to your car's computer, reading data from sensors and components to identify performance issues. Our product VD70S has the latest OBD technology.

 

Understanding the Importance of Automotive Diagnostic Tools

A vehicle diagnostic machine is an electronic scanner that connects to an OBD (OBD1 or OBD2) socket to read and clear codes and view sensor data. It helps diagnose vehicle issues quickly and accurately, making it an essential tool for mechanics and car owners, saving time, money, and frustration.

Car diagnostic tools typically refer to ODB or ODB2 tools used to diagnose engine management and electrical or mechanical problems in a car, but several other tools also fall into this category.

 

What are the different types of car diagnostic machines?

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

• 1. ODB2 Car Scanner: Used to scan diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) on all modern cars and vehicles
• 2. ODB1 Car Scanner: Used to scan diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) on older cars, gasoline cars before 2001, diesel cars built in the UK before 2004, and any vehicle built in the US before 1996
• 3. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Used to monitor if tire pressure is 25% or more below or above the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure level and sound an alarm
• 4. Circuit Testers and Multimeters: Used to test electrical circuits, can be used to measure voltage, current, resistance, and electrical continuity to help determine where certain electrical problems may exist
• 5. Car Battery Tester: A voltmeter used to test the charge of a car's battery, often this function is combined with the ability to charge or trickle charge the battery and prevent overcharging by constantly monitoring the battery's voltage and condition

Usually, when a garage or mechanic mentions a diagnostic machine, they are talking about the first type, and almost every new car in the last 20 years follows the OBD2 standard, so this is by far the most popular type of diagnostic connection.

 

What are the benefits of using a diagnostic machine?

Diagnostic machines check a vehicle's engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical system, and more for issues. They can identify sensor failures, wiring problems, and performance issues, offering these benefits:

1. Faster Troubleshooting: Quickly pinpoint the root cause, saving time and money on unnecessary repairs.
2. Accurate Diagnosis: Provide precise information for targeted, effective repairs.
3. Preventive Maintenance: Detect potential issues early, preventing breakdowns and costly repairs.
4. Compliance: Essential for MOT tests or emissions checks to ensure regulatory compliance.

 

What is the difference between an OBD2 reader and an OBD2 diagnostic scanner?

 Although the names are used interchangeably, an OBD2 reader is a basic diagnostic tool that can read and display diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from your car's OBD2 port, while an OBD2 diagnostic scanner is a more advanced diagnostic tool that can do everything a code reader can do, and it can also:

• 1. Read and clear pending and manufacturer-specific DTCs
• 2. Display real-time data from vehicle sensors and actuators
• 3. Perform diagnostic tests on specific systems and components
• 4. Chart and record data for troubleshooting

Generally speaking, OBD2 scanners are more expensive than OBD2 readers, but they offer more features and functionality.

The following table summarizes the main differences between OBD2 readers and diagnostic scanners:

Feature OBD2 Reader OBD2 Scanner Reading DTCs YES YES Clear fault codes YES YES Read pending DTCs NO YES Reading manufacturer specific DTCs NO YES Display real-time data NO YES Perform diagnostic tests NO YES Graph and record data NO YES

 

Which type of diagnostic tool you need depends on your needs and budget. If you are just looking for a basic way to read and clear DTCs, then an OBD2 reader is a good choice. However, if you run a garage and need more advanced features, such as the ability to read pending and manufacturer-specific DTCs, display live data, or perform diagnostic tests, then you should consider an OBD2 scanner.

 

What are Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)?

A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is an alphanumeric code defined by the automaker for each vehicle and generated by the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system to identify a fault with the vehicle's emissions control system or other major components. DTCs can be set by a variety of sensors and actuators throughout the vehicle and can be used to diagnose a variety of issues, from minor problems like a loose gas cap to more serious issues like a faulty engine sensor.

DTCs are usually displayed on the vehicle's dashboard warning light, commonly known as the "Check Engine Light." However, some vehicles may also have a dedicated DTC display or may only be accessible using a diagnostic scanner.

Once a DTC is set, it can be cleared by repairing the underlying problem and then resetting the OBD system. However, it is important to note that some DTCs may remain set even after the problem has been fixed. This is because the OBD system may need to run a series of tests to confirm that the problem has been fixed.

It is important to note that DTCs may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle. You must ensure that you have the correct diagnostic scanner for the specific make and model of vehicle you are working on, but if you are unsure before purchasing a diagnostic scan tool, consult your supplier or call Concept Garage Equipment and they will be able to advise you on the correct diagnostic tool for your needs

 

What is the best diagnostic machine to buy?

If you are a garage, workshop, MOT Bay or mobile mechanic then a car diagnostic machine is an essential part of your toolbox. Almost all modern cars have elements that are controlled and monitored by the car computer and ODB system, so that problems can be diagnosed faster, or sometimes can only be truly identified through the use of car diagnostic tools.

We have diagnostic scanners from some of the major brands and to some extent, the best diagnostic machine for your garage may be different to others depending on your requirements.

Suppose you are looking for a simple and affordable scanner. In that case, the Vdiagtool VD70 Lite is an excellent choice as it comes with OBD and OBDII and can perform full system diagnostics for over 200 car brands, including VAG cars (VW, Audi) and currently offers a 2-year subscription. The Vdiagtool VD70 Lite also supports special features for multiple car brands, including adding/replacing key fobs, battery sensor module learning, and tire pressure sensor learning.

At the other end of the spectrum is the Vdiagtool VD70S diagnostic machine. What makes it different from many other diagnostic scanners is its revolutionary look and the fact that it can be wirelessly connected to an external display such as a tablet, laptop, or PC. lt uses inductive charging technology and diagnostic scanning can be started via a wizard or a QR code. By adding the optional MT-USB, you can seamlessly turn it into a dual-channel multimeter for voltage measurements up to 60V as well as current and resistance measurements, saving on extra workshop tools as they are all built into this powerful diagnostic machine.

 

Choosing the right diagnostic machine

If you are a mechanic or car enthusiast, there are a variety of diagnostic machines to choose from to suit your needs. Factors to consider when choosing a device include:

• 1. Compatibility: Make sure the machine is compatible with the make and model of your vehicle.
• 2. Features: Consider the specific features you need, such as real-time data monitoring, code clearing, and advanced diagnostic capabilities.
• 3. Ease of use: A user-friendly interface can make troubleshooting more efficient.