Auto service is critical, and without it, you can lose your car or put yourself in danger. Hi, my name is Pete, and after ignoring my brakes for too long, I was in an accident. I made it my goal to learn everything I could about the importance of car service. Regardless of how much or how little you know about cars, I hope that these blogs can help you. I plan to focus on a range of topics related to auto service and possibly some other ideas as well. This is my first blog, and I hope that you enjoy it. When I'm not writing, I work in a coffee shop during the day and part-time for a telemarketing company in the evenings. I enjoy cooking and spending time with my family.
A modern-day car is more like a computer on wheels than anything else, as most of the major functions are controlled by an on-board processor of some kind. This can be confusing to many people, but in truth, it makes life a lot easier so long as you are able to determine the cause of the issue and interpret a specific code. How does this work and what auto scan tools are available to help with this interpretation?
Warning Sensors
The average car or truck has hundreds of individual sensors that are attached to various components and designed to send messages to the central computer. If the component in question is not performing according to its strict specification, the sensor will be activated, and the computer will, in turn, illuminate a warning lamp on the dashboard. This lamp is a general indication that you have a problem, but to be specific, you will have to use a special tool to get more information.
OBD Tools
The most common type of tool is known as an "on-board diagnostic (OBD)." These have been around for some years now, and your local mechanic will likely have the latest version on hand.
This scanning tool will allow the technician to quickly interpret the problem and get more information to help them schedule a repair. Once activated, they will be able to check a range of different sensors, including mass airflow, throttle position, oxygen, ignition timing, fuel injection and so on.
Scanning in Action
In order to get this data, the tool needs to be attached to the vehicle through a special interface, which is typically found in the passenger cabin and near to the foot well. This scanner can be connected to a mobile device like a laptop computer with special cabling and, once linked to the appropriate software program, can instantly diagnose a problem.
To get things moving, the mechanic will connect everything up, turn the ignition to the "on" position and scan the vehicle computer. Certain codes will appear, and these can be cross-referenced to the relevant problem area to provide information and any further data needed.
Taking Action Taking Action
So, the next time that the "check engine light" or associated warning lamp flickers into life on your dashboard, you should head for your nearest mechanic. They will be able to attach the OBD tool and get to the bottom of the problem as quickly as possible.
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