Since I've grown tired of not knowing what's wrong with my car and having to rely on others to get it fixed, I've decided I'd like to have an OBD II scanner so at least I know what is wrong. I wouldn't need anything too fancy (no $1000 scanners for me!) but not too simple (one that just tells me the code, no options to reset lights and such). Any idea where to start looking?
Just remember an OBD scanner is NOT a magic wand. Many parts store will scan your car for free..........with the hope that you will buy the parts the scan tool ID as the problem. SCAN TOOLS sell parts.......lots of parts......lots of expensive non returnable parts.
There severel levels of testers or scan tools. The higher level tools give live data stream of the all the sensors and engine running values. This data is often need to correctly ID the componets or systems with the actual problem. The skills needed to read and understand the data stream are very high level.
Well...........the scan tool displays the code. The code maybe a direct indicator of the part needed or the code may only indicated the area of problem. The later indicator is where the skills and knowledge of the user plays and huge part.
Example:
Misfire and fuel trim codes are very common........they can be complex issues but parts stores will gladly sell a boat load of parts in hope that their guess will fix the issue.......either way they make money.
Misfires often get plugs, wires, cap, coils, CDI units, sensors etc etc
Fuel trim often get injectors, O2 sensor, fuel pump, fuel filter, ECU, air filter, vacuumed lines, fuel pressure regulators, any one of ten sensors. Usually it only one part or issue BUT knowing which part and why is where the skills and knowledge is critical.
There are many codes that very specific and ID a specific sensor like temp sensors, throttle position etc..........often codes are also triggered because of wiring and connector issues.
A shop manual can be your best friend.
