2012年8月23日 星期四

What is OBD II Code Reader Or OBD II Scanner?


OBD Scan stands for On-Board Diagnostic Scan. It was originally used for tracking auto emission from automobile. Essentially, you can plug  Handheld OBD automotive scanners into automobiles located along or on the underside of the dash using OBD cable for a comprehensive diagnosis of the engine. All gasoline powered automobile in the United States manufactured from 1996 onwards are fitted with a plug-in that allows scanning by an OBD II code reader for anything related to the engine or engine troubleshooting. Most vehicles prior to 1996 use the older version known as OBD 1. The differences between the two is that in the case of OBD 1, there is no uniform system in identifying problems associated with the engine failure since each automaker used their own codes and definition.  

The development of OBD II  scanner has simplified the problem of identifying engine failure for multiple auto brands by standardizing onboard diagnostic system in all automobiles manufactured from 1996 onwards.  

Once the handheld OBDII scanner is plug-in, live data related to your automobile's engine will appear on the scanner's LCD screen. It can also be used to check engine light and provide information on the automobile's fuel injection efficiency and throttle related problems. Most importantly you can check your engine emission status whether it is in compliance with the state mandated smog emission.  

Should there be failure in the engine, such as anything related to oxygen sensor, temperature sensor, throttle sensor, temperature sensor, it will show up and recorded on the screen under DTC or Diagnostic Trouble Code. This is just an indicator giving warning about the engine's fault. However, do not buy any replacement parts just yet because such warning could just be due to a bad sensor or blockage causing abnormal high or low reading. Whether it is a bad indicator or otherwise, it is a good start to discover any real problem with your engine. It is then necessary for a further investigation onto the specific area around the problem indicated before you go out and purchase any replacement parts.  

The OBD scan devices can be further connected via a serial port to a computer to show complete diagnosis or troubles with your engine. OBD diagnostic tools are a must for auto owners and what used to cost thousands of dollars can be purchase for less than  $100 to $400 each. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional technician, a comprehensive PC based report can be generated to tell you the problems and a solution database to help solve the problem also. You can engage a professional technician for $100 who will be using a similar OBD scan tool for diagnosis of your vehicle or you can get one and identify the problems on your own.

Basically, there are two types of OBD automotive scanners in the market today. A handheld scanner that incorporates OBD 1 and OBD II code reader are much more expensive. There is also OBDII scanner prior to 1996 that have different plug requirement. For older models between 1991 and 1995 such as GM, Ford or Chrysler, have different connector for plug-in to the OBD scan devices. As for the makes, there are many choices to choose from ranging from the more popular brands such as Equus OBD, Actron scanners, Autoxray scanner and OTC Genisys to name a few.  




The author shares his passion for cars and trucks and related auto issues. His interest dates back to having his first job as a part-time car salesman more than 20 years ago. Since then he has shared his interest and knowledge among friends and family members. For those looking for OBD 1 and OBDII scanner, used cars for sale by owner or cheap used trucks, cars under 1000, be sure to visit: http://motoringdiscount.blogspot.com/ for further information.





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