Do I Need an OBD-II Tool or a Scan Tool?
2016-04-22 16:54:00
Many people think that an OBD-II reader and a scan tool are the same thing ... until they price them. OBD-II tools are hand held devices
that link to your car's on board diagnostics through the data port (under the hood or under the dash). They provide a wealth of information,
more than enough for the average DIY mechanic. A hand held OBD-II tool will pull and display diagnostic trouble codes, show emissions
related monitor status and display freeze frame data which was set when the “Check Engine” light problem occurred -- very handy info to
have. The main difference between a hand held OBD-II tool and a scan tool is that scan tools are capable of retrieving more live data
parameters that can open a larger window to figuring out the cause. That's great, but at a cost of anywhere from $500 to several
thousand dollars, you're really opening your wallet. And, aftermarket scan tools still only give you about 75 percent of the OE data,
and usually require that you purchase software updates to this manufacturer-specific information.
I know that's a lot of info, but the bottom line is an OBD-II reader is a must for anybody who wants to handle their own diagnostics,
but that's as far technologically as most of us need to go. The next level scan tool is just too pricey for somebody who is only in charge of
a few cars in their "personal fleet." There are some excellent readers out there for around 100 bucks! This reader from Can OBD2 does
most of what you need, and you can't beat the price or the realiability you get from a company like Can OBD2 that specializes
in modern automotive diagnostics.
