Step 3: Enter the Vehicle Identification Number The OBD system gets its power from the same circuit, so if there’s no voltage going to the power outlet, then the OBD scanner won’t work either. If it’s still not working, check whether there is power coming through the car’s auxiliary power outlet (aka the cigarette lighter). If the scanner doesn’t light up when you switch on the ignition, check the connection between the scanner and the connector pins. You’ll see a message like “establishing link with OBD” while the scanner is initiating. Turning on the ignition will send power to the OBD scanner, which will begin communicating with the vehicle’s on-board computer. Turn on the ignition in the vehicle, but don’t start the engine.
#Obd2 reader codes manual#
Check your owner’s manual for the precise location of your DLC. In rare cases, it will be in the center dashboard or below the glove compartment. Each vehicle has a different location for the OBD port, but most of the time, you’ll find it under the driver’s side dashboard near the pedals. This is also known as the diagnostic link connector (DLC). Your OBD scanner has a 16-pin trapezoidal connector that fits into the vehicle’s OBD port. OBD-II scan tool with CAN OBDII MaxiScan MS300 from Autel (Image credit: YourBestDigs) Step 1: Plug the OBD scanner into the OBD port You don’t need any other tools, just access to the interior of the vehicle. It’s a handheld tool with a 16-pin trapezoidal connector that plugs into the vehicle and interprets the OBD code. Reading OBD codes requires an OBD scanner, which can cost between $30 and $60.
#Obd2 reader codes software#
The best fleet management software and services.Our guide to the best GPS fleet tracking solutions.Through the use of an OBD scanner, you can get this five-letter code from the vehicle so you know exactly what needs attention. These are also commonly known as OBD codes or OBD-II codes. When something goes wrong, the OBD computer stores a five-letter diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that summarizes the issue at hand. Modern vehicles have onboard diagnostic computers (OBDs) that enable a mechanic with the right tools to quickly understand any problem that the vehicle is experiencing.
Symptoms of the problem may not be apparent, and a simple light on its own can’t tell you whether the issue lies with the fuel system, ignition, transmission, computer circuitry, emission controls, or elsewhere. When the Check Engine light pops on, it can indicate a wide range of issues with your vehicle.