How do you read a scan tool?

How do you read a scan tool?

Follow these 4 steps to insert and read the OBD scanner:

1. Step 1: Locate your vehicle’s OBD port.
2. Step 2: Plug your OBD scan tool into the connector.
3. Step 3: Read the codes in the computer.
4. Step 4: Record the codes that display.
5. Step 1: Break down your code into sections.

Why is there no reading on my scan?

Another reason for getting no reading is that the scan port has become clogged with dust after years of not being used.

What can you do with a scan tool?

On modern vehicles you will often use a scan tool to bleed the brakes, perform and alignment, repair a power window, change the tires, or even change the oil.

Which is better a code reader or scan tool?

Dig a little deeper and you’ll get a code reader with a back-lit screen. Dig deeper still and you’ll get a code reader that’ll spit out the code definitions right on the screen. And many of those higher end readers are update-able (as manufacturers develop new codes). A scan tool costs more because it does more.

How to read scan data for car repair?

After finding the connector simply plug in the diagnostic tool and begin reading the scan tool data. Most scan tools come with paper manuals or discs that provide a good knowledge base for beginner diagnosis. On board diagnostic second generation scan tools like the Actron 9680 above, or the Innova 3030g now have color screens.

Another reason for getting no reading is that the scan port has become clogged with dust after years of not being used.

Dig a little deeper and you’ll get a code reader with a back-lit screen. Dig deeper still and you’ll get a code reader that’ll spit out the code definitions right on the screen. And many of those higher end readers are update-able (as manufacturers develop new codes). A scan tool costs more because it does more.

What can live data readings on a scan tool do?

The “live data” scan tools can really help out with a difficult problem. The local Chevy dealer connected one to my HHR because it was getting several conflicting fault codes right after a recall “fix.” The scan tool finally got the problem isolated to the Throttle Position Sensor and the Accelerator Position Sensor.

After finding the connector simply plug in the diagnostic tool and begin reading the scan tool data. Most scan tools come with paper manuals or discs that provide a good knowledge base for beginner diagnosis. On board diagnostic second generation scan tools like the Actron 9680 above, or the Innova 3030g now have color screens.