The Truth About OBD2 Scanners – Facts and Fiction

There are a lot of different options that you can work with to figure out what is going on with your car. However, amidst all the different things that you can use today, you’ll find that OBD2 scanners are the way to go. 

These are solutions that are very much high-tech, but they are specific to vehicles. Modern vehicles today are going to be easier to diagnose with issues than ever before, made possible by technology. Tech that is found within vehicles is computer based, and you can get to know the codes and issues of your car without having to go to a mechanic. 

Now, there are a few facts and fallacies that come with these devices, and that’s one of the biggest things that you’ll need to consider moving forward. As you look into the bigger picture of these types of solutions, consider the following facts and fallacies that are found with purchasing automotive scanners today.

They Do Not Replace Mechanics

The first thing that you need to know about scanners overall is simple, they don’t replace mechanics. Just because you purchase one of the best OBD2 scanners out there, doesn’t mean that you will not need to go to a garage or speak to a mechanic. 

You may be able to get some code information, you may also be able to assist your car’s overall function, but as far as replacing mechanics is concerned, you won’t. In fact, many professionals use these scanners as well, and it helps them figure out whether you can find the root issue of your vehicle’s problems. 

If there’s a problem, you can pull the code from the scanner, and find out whether you will need to spend a great deal on the fix, or simply apply a small solution.

Not All Scanners Are Universal

As you move forward with purchasing a OBD2 device, you’ll find that not every single scanner is universal. Your car is also not part of every device’s compatibility either. 

You’ll need to invest some time into considering what type of vehicle you have, what connections are available, and which scanner works best with it. 

When you do this, you’ll be able to determine which you should buy, and which is going to work with the vehicle you own. 

Again, not all scanners are universal, so you may spend a great deal of money on a device, and it may not work with your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Take a little time to look for compatibility.

OBD2 Scanners Don’t Tell You How To Fix Things

Hinging on the first truth mentioned above, you’ll find that the scanner that you purchase will not fix things. Once you plug this is into your car and get the data that you need, it will just be a code. The codes that you will receive when you plug in your scanner, will denote problem areas, but will not give you instructions on fixing things. 

Instead, you’ll get a code that will help you diagnose the issue. That means that you’ll at least have more information about your vehicle’s problems, but not necessarily what to do to fix it, simple as that. Again, it will not allow you to replace the expertise of a mechanic.

The Most Expensive Scanner Isn’t Always The Best

When searching for a scanner, you’re going to find that the most expensive option isn’t the best solution out there. You’ll find that you can find a simple solution that is inexpensive can match some of the features that more expensive options can be. 

It’s imperative that you don’t consider price up front when you look into devices. Look for options that are on both sides of the cost spectrum. Look at expensive options as well as inexpensive solutions, and see the features that they have. 

You’ll find that by doing a little comparison shopping, you’ll find the “right” option for your needs. The “right” solution is meant to give you information on your car’s make and model.

Software Is Not Always Up To Date

When you purchase a new scanner, you’ll most likely be given a download code or a disc to get the information you need for your scanning solution. 

Once you upload and download the right software, you’ll be able to start using the device on your vehicle, but the software is not always up to date. This is very important to understand. Before you spend any money, make sure that you look into when things are updated, and whether or not there are new software options. 

Some of the software solutions that are attached to certain devices are antiquated. Always double check to see if the software is updated, and whether you can go online and download newer solutions, and any information that you can build for your site. 

Some companies do not have up to date software and will not allow you to update it or download new options either. Take note of that whenever you’re going to spend money on tech.

Things Aren’t Always Easy To Read

Moving forward, you’ll find that not all scanners are going to be easy to read information on. Some don’t have backlit displays, some don’t have LED screens, and others only read out numbers and not text. 

As you narrow down the options that you are going to purchase, make sure that you look at how the information is read, and whether you can download data to your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. 

Some options only work with laptops, others only work with smartphones, and some may not even work with your Windows device and requires an OSX solution. Take this into consideration as you look into buying a scanner overall.

At the end of the day, you’ll find that OBD2 scanners are great options to use for automotive repair. However, make absolutely sure that compatibility, warranty information, and the pros and cons mentioned above aren’t brushed off. 

Take your time in purchasing an option, and learning how to use it correctly. That will help you understand what you’re dealing with, and how to work with the mechanical fix you need for your car.