Best OBD2 Scanner Buyer's Guide
Many systems and functionalities work together to keep your automobile at its optimum state. Regular check-ups and maintenance are needed to keep your automobile roadworthy. This is because, like any other machine, automobiles develop faults every now and then. Knowing what is wrong with your car is as important as fixing the problem. Sometimes you end up spending time queueing at the auto-mechanic shop just to fix something you could have fixed yourself. The alternate scenario could happen when you delay in fixing a serious problem because you thought it was nothing serious. An OBD2 scanner can help out in both scenarios. That is why it is crucial to get the best type of OBD2 scanner for your automobile. This buying guide is designed to help you make an informed choice.
What are the tips for using OBD2 scanners?
Though there are different models and designs of OBD2 scanners, they follow the same process. Here are some general tips to help ease your use of OBD2 scanners. The first step is to look for the OBD2 scanner port. It is usually found at the driver's side of the dashboard. Connect your scanner and then turn on the ignition of the automobile. The scanner reads the system and shows the error codes. These codes are then interpreted to understand what is wrong with your automobile system. You can also use OBD2 scanners to clear the error codes after fixing the problem. There you have it, simple and easy.
What are things to consider before buying OBD2 scanners?
To purchase the best types of OBD2 scanners for your automobile, there are some factors that you need to consider. These factors include the OBD2 scanner type, compatibility, and port type.
Types of OBD2 scanners
There are two major types of OBD2 scanners when you consider their mode of operation and program. There are simple types that scan for code errors and interpret them. You also have advanced models that make use of smartphone apps. These apps are compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones. These types scan and interpret codes. Then through the app, they suggest ways to fix the errors detected. It is important to consider the type you would prefer.
Compatible
You need to consider the model of your automobile and check if the OBD2 scanner is compatible with your automobile brand. This would determine if the OBD2 scanner can adequately diagnose the system and detect errors. You should check the compatibility under the OBD2 scanner description before making your selection.
Port type
The standard port for OBD2 scanners is the 16-pin port. Though almost all of the diagnostic scanners come with cables and cords that fit into this port, you need to be sure. Only scanners with the right cord type can diagnose your automobile system.
What is the price range for OBD2 scanners?
The type of the OBD2 scanner greatly influences the price range. The simple types have prices ranging from $25 to $50 depending on the brand. The advanced models have prices ranging from $99 to $143. Your budget would undoubtedly influence your selection, but there is a wide range of options available to you.
How did we choose our selection of OBD2 scanners?
Our selection has gone through several filters to leave you with the best OBD2 scanners available. To give you the best available, we considered the following factors.
Brands
It was important to consider reputable brands before others. With years of experience under their belts, popular and reputable brands have a record of producing the best types of OBD2 scanners that are durable and easy to use. We also considered the fact that some quality brands might be new in the market; they influenced our selection as well.
Reviews
Another reliable way to select the best is to take a comprehensive look at customers’ reviews. They give reports about the use of the scanners over time. They are useful in noting how the features advertised by the manufacturers are well represented. We used the customers’ reviews and comments to select the best types of OBD2 scanners.
Price
The different prices of the OBD2 scanners were helpful in the selection process. Yes, it was important to select the best, but it was equally important to make sure the prices fit the scanner that you are buying. This factor helped to select quality OBD2 scanners with the appropriate price tag.
What are some features to look out for in OBD2 scanners?
You need to look out for some interesting features if you will enjoy using your purchased OBD2 scanner. These features add to the DIY properties of the OBD2 scanners. They include:
Clear Screen
Most types of OBD2 scanners have a LED screen that is clear and easy to read. This is perhaps one of the most important features because a clear screen allows you to read the codes and detect errors properly.
Retrieve Vehicle Information
The OBD2 scanner should be able to retrieve your vehicle information. Some scanners have an AUTOVIN system that automatically provides your vehicle identification number.
Easy to Operate
With simple buttons that scroll up and down, you should be able to operate the OBD2 scanners easily. The easy mode operation contributes to the fact that these scanners should be part of the DIY tools.
Multiple Languages
It is also important that your preferred OBD2 scanner can operate in multiple languages. You will find that some OBD2 scanners support up to six different languages.
What are the final thoughts about OBD2 scanners?
OBD2 scanners are excellent tools to have for proper maintenance of your vehicle. They can detect errors and turn off your engine light after diagnostics. A glowing engine light indicates the problem is mild and can be easily fixed later, while a blinking light indicates that the problem needs immediate attention. This shows just how useful and intuitive these scanners can be. Surf through our collections and purchase the OBD2 scanner that fits your specification.
What are some OBD2 scanners FAQs?
Q: What is OBD2?
A: OBD2 is known as On-board Diagnostics II. It is a program that was introduced in automobiles manufactured from the year 1996 onward. It was aimed at helping users detect errors in their automobile systems.
Q: What systems are detectable when using OBD2 scanners?
A: The scanner can detect errors in the fuel systems, engine misfires, emission control system, idle control, transmission system, and many others.
Q: What is ABS? Can OBD2 scanner diagnose the system?
A: ABS is the anti-braking system found in the latest models of automobiles. Some OBD2 scanners can diagnose this system, especially the advanced types, while the simple types cannot.