For anyone who likes to work on their own car, an Onboard Diagnostic Scanner has become absolutely vital. Modern vehicles are complex machines, and understanding what’s going on under the hood often starts with reading engine fault codes. An onboard diagnostic scanner, also known as an OBD scanner, gives you that crucial first step in diagnosing and fixing problems.
Are onboard diagnostic scanners really worth it? In short, yes. They offer the quickest route to understanding car troubles. Without an onboard diagnostic scanner, you’re often left guessing or facing a potentially costly trip to a mechanic just to identify the fault. Considering that garage labor costs can easily average around £50 per hour, investing in your own onboard diagnostic scanner quickly pays for itself. Pairing an onboard diagnostic scanner with resources like Haynes AutoFix online guides empowers you to diagnose and repair many common car problems and electrical issues right at home, using just basic tools.
The market offers a wide range of onboard diagnostic scanners, from basic models to more advanced professional tools. While features and prices vary significantly, from budget-friendly options around £13 to more comprehensive units costing nearly £250*, the core function remains the same. A good onboard diagnostic scanner should reliably:
- Establish communication with your vehicle’s computer system.
- Accurately read and display fault codes.
- Allow you to clear fault codes after repairs.
It’s important to note that while most onboard diagnostic scanners excel at reading and clearing fault codes, they typically don’t handle tasks like turning off service lights for systems like ABS or SRS, or resetting oil life monitors. However, resources like Haynes AutoFix can guide you through these procedures and complement the diagnostic capabilities of your onboard diagnostic scanner.
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Understanding OBD and Your Scanner
OBD stands for on-board diagnostics. This refers to a standardized port found in most modern cars. It’s a 16-pin socket, often referred to as OBD2 outside of Europe and EOBD within Europe, and it’s been a standard feature in all petrol passenger cars sold since January 1, 2001, and in diesel cars since 2004.
This OBD port is more than just a data connection; it also provides power. This means your onboard diagnostic scanner doesn’t need its own power source, whether batteries or a separate power cable. It draws the necessary power directly from your car’s OBD port, making it convenient and easy to use for quick diagnostics.
