What is the purpose of a scan tool for cars?

Scan tools provide vehicle data and trouble codes stored within the vehicle computer networks. Access to these codes and data direct the technician to the area of concern or where/what a malfunction could be.

1. Is a scan tool worth it?
2. CAN OBD scanner damage car?
3. How accurate are car code readers?
4. How do you use a scan tool on a car?
5. CAN OBD drain battery?
6. Can you drive with OBD connected?
7. Can you clear fault codes while driving?
8. What is the difference between a scan tool and a code reader?
9. Does FIXD have a monthly fee?
10. Do all code readers work on all cars?
11. Can you scan a car without check engine light?

Is a scan tool worth it?

No it is not worth the cost. If you live in the states almost all major auto parts chains (Advance Auto, Autozone, etc) will do a check or even loan you the tool for free. Unless you're checking codes daily, it may be cost prohibitive. The error codes produced by OBD2 are rather generic.

CAN OBD scanner damage car?

Apart from some "killer commands", the ECU might have been destroyed electrically. The OBDII-Interface can implement several different data buses with different voltage levels. If the bus lines get connected to +12V, this could destroy something.

How accurate are car code readers?

They are accurate in telling what system or component is having a problem. They do not ever indicate what component needs to be replaced. That requires diagnosis and testing. A code related to a particular component can be “set” by wiring issues related to that component when the component itself is fine, for example.

How do you use a scan tool on a car?

Turn on the car to power the scan tool or code reader. If necessary, enter any vehicle-specific information requested. Many tools will ask for the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). To check for engine codes, press the “scan” button on the code reader, and follow the directions on the screen.

CAN OBD drain battery?

Battery Drain

So a poorly designed OBD device, when left plugged into the OBD port, might completely drain your battery. Worse still, if a device is not carefully designed, it can turn on your ECU even while the car is not running, draining your battery even faster.

Can you drive with OBD connected?

Absolutely, sometimes it is required. Some insurance company's offer an obdII device that stays plugged in all the time and sends them information about your style of driving.

Can you clear fault codes while driving?

Erasing error codes deletes the errors from the computer. In doing so, you lose the information that would help solve a problem with the car, so you shouldn't erase them unless the problem has been corrected. Erasing them to pass a smog test generally won't work.

What is the difference between a scan tool and a code reader?

A code reader is a simplified version of a scan tool, but it's only capable of performing basic scans of trouble codes. A scan tool can read and clear trouble codes, and it may also provide advanced data reading and playback features, knowledge bases, diagnostic procedures, and built-in testing equipment.

Does FIXD have a monthly fee?

No, you do not need the subscription to use your FIXD sensor. The subscription does come with additional features, but scanning your vehicle will always be free.

Do all code readers work on all cars?

Most OBD2 scanners and car code readers do not work on all cars. If you are looking for an OBD2 scanner or car code reader, you should check if it works with your particular make and model before buying it.

Can you scan a car without check engine light?

In short, yes; it's possible to diagnose a problem with a vehicle even if the check engine light does not illuminate.