Rule of Thumb Guide BEFORE Buying an OBD2 Scan Tool

Every car that has been made after the mid 1990s has an onboard system that helps mechanics and consumers locate major and minor car issues.

This computer element is getting better all the time, and your modern vehicles are going to have expert created, programmed, and installed systems that manage everything about the car.

If you're interested in car tuning, or perhaps you just want to fix your car when something doesn't seem right, you'll no doubt want to look into how the modern mechanic diagnoses issues.

This is done through something that is known as an OBD2 scanner. If you were to look for OBD2 scan tool options, you'll get hit with thousands of options online.

There's a lot of companies putting these out, as there is no “one” solution that works with every make and model.

If you're in the market for one of these tools, you'll no doubt want some advice as to what to purchase. Looking online could be difficult, as there's so many options that come out.

With so many solutions, it may be best if you simply consider a few rules of thumb on what to buy, and what may work best for you.

By simply asking and answering a few questions, you'll find the best option may be the one that addresses your overall needs.

The Basic Options

The first thing that you need to do is simple, look for basic solutions. If you're not keen on fixing your car, or perhaps have never used an OBD2 scan tool, then it's important to get something basic first.

By simply purchasing something that is basic, you'll be able to learn what the trouble codes are, and how they come out through the storage and data solutions.

Basic options are inexpensive, and are sometimes able to work through wireless internet, and even Bluetooth.

The basic solutions that you'll find can detect simple issues, give you codes to work with, and fix common car problems. Of course, this is going to lack bells and whistles, but it's something to consider if you're just starting out.

Now, if you know what you're doing, or perhaps want something that is going to sense other options, then you'll want to get a professional, high end unit.

Professional grade models can work with airbag detection, definitions, printing options, and real-time data protocol.

You'll also be able to save data, and log in to see information about multiple VIN numbers if need be. These are just some basic options that go with the professional elements overall.

They are a good solution to consider, and will help you narrow down the field a bit.

Upgrading The Solution

Moving forward, you'll find that OBD2 scan tools are either going to be stand-alone solutions or they are going to be upgradeable.

Upgrading your solution is going to be one factor that you need to consider when purchasing anything. Do you want to upgrade your unit? Or do you just want something simple to use, that you will not have to worry about later on?

If you want something simple, then you will not want to buy a high-end solution. Low cost, entry level scanners are going to be simple, and pre-loaded with software.

You will not be able to upload or work with new software. They may even be locked, and limited in reach after you attach it to your vehicle's system.

On the other hand, if you want to upgrade options, try new software, and make sure that every definition and code is up to date, you'll want to spend a little more.

If you spend a little more, you may be able to download patches, upgrade software, and even use multiple software solutions.

This is something that you need to consider moving forward with, only if you are going to be using your scanner for a long time.

If you are just looking to test things out, and aren't going to be doing heavy work or car tuning, then you don't need to worry about the bells and whistles.

Consider Compatibility

Never buy anything without first checking to see the compatibility. Make sure you know the make and model of your car, as well as the VIN number.

You will want to investigate the scanners that are 100% compatible with your car. Many scanner manufacturers will tell you that their option works with “most” cars.

Well, that may be ok if you're going for a beginner's solution, but if you want something that is going to last, and will give you professional level results, then you will need to consider the compatibility of the option you want to buy.

When in doubt, consider looking for options that are PC based, and can even work with Bluetooth and wireless internet connections.

You can also use handheld solutions that can help you with options under the hood, if need be.

The best solution is going to be the one that is easy to move, can become handheld, and is able to receive updates across several different platforms.

One Car Or Two?

Are you going to be working on just your own car? Or do you have several cars?

By answering these questions, you'll be able to pick the right OBD2 scan tool for your needs.

Professionals that are going to be working on cars for a living will want to pay for the professional, advanced solutions.

Those solutions can easily run $10,000 or more, but they diagnose a plethora of problems, even obscure issues.

If you don't want to spend that much, and you aren't a professional, you can always purchase a simple tool that is less than $1,000.

At the end of the day, the above rules of thumb are going to help you pick the “right” solution for your needs.

It will help you figure out which scanner is good for you, and which one will help you with the diagnostics your car needs.

Take your time, read reviews, and make sure that you do not use haste in making your final decision overall.

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