How to proper use of car diagnostic scan tools

Auto diagnostic tools are used to diagnose the engine, brake, vehicle parts and so on. They can be plug into the standardized socket on most vehicles and trucks manufactured after1996. In the fact, using a scan tools can save you many hours of headache in determining the problem with any car. Besides, they are very easy-to-use. A common auto repair shops mechanic can learn to use a diagnostic tool in about five minutes.

Instructions: using a car diagnostic tool
1. Determine the type of diagnostic tool required for your vehicle. There are two main types of sockets, the OBD-1 (On Board Diagnostics) type, which was the main type of socket made before 1990. And the newer OBD-2 socket. They both are simple pin-out designs that will allow access to the computer. The socket is located under the steering wheel, up under the dash board, and could be hidden by wiring or panels.
2. Plug the diagnostic tool’s adapter plug into the vehicle’s computer socket, and turn on the vehicle’s ignition, but do not start it.
3. Turn the diagnostic tool on. The display will come on, and after it communicates with the vehicle’s computer for a few seconds, it will display an “OK” message or a menu.
4. Apply the menu to find the “stored codes”, or the diagnostic codes that the vehicle’s computer has stored into its memory. These codes are collected over time, and unless the vehicle’s battery has been disconnected, they should remain in memory. The scan tool will display these codes, along with basic data information about the code.
5. Write down the codes that are displayed and the check them. Automobile repair manuals for the make and model of vehicle will have a list of these codes and what they mean. Many codes will start with a letter, followed by several numbers, such as “P0233,” and they are tripped by sensor that the computer monitors constantly. When the sensors determine something is wrong with the vehicle, they store the code in the computer so that the mechanic can determine the issue and repair it.

Tips & Warnings
1. Buying a diagnostic tool with several adapters can allow it to diagnose multiple cars.
2. Do not attach the obd2 scanner tool directly to the computer or battery.
Source: http://www.focalobd.com/blog/how-to-proper-use-of-car-diagnostic-scan-tools/