OBD2 scanners thoroughly analyze your car parts, outline the identified components, and give details of how to repair or fix. There are two types of scanners: code readers and scan tools. They differentiate in functionality.
If you’re looking to get one for yourself, Caraudiologic’s top picks include BlueDriver Bluetooth, Autel MaxiDAS DS808, and BAFX Products Bluetooth Diagnostic OBD2 Scanners. Here are reasons why you should own one:
1. Weather concerns
A range of car issues arises during extreme weather conditions. When it’s freezing, you can be almost sure of facing one or several issues. They vary from loose gas caps, drained tire pressure, or a dead battery. All these issues trigger the check engine light to turn on. That is a warning sign that prohibits any mobility in your car.
At this point, your OBD2 scanner comes in handy. It identifies all these issues and suggests how to tackle them. You can also use it to scan your car before driving to ensure it is in tip-top condition to drive.
In cold weather, it checks for the temperature of engines, fuel system pressure, warning lights, idle lights, exhaust emission levels, and other metrics that reveal in lower temperatures.
2. When the check engine light turns on
Any car’s dashboard holds a variety of lights and indicators. As taught in your driving classes, they all have different functions. The check engine light is the most critical of them all. When it blinks, the instructions are to pull over immediately. If possible, fix the possible malfunction or seek help.
Imagine a situation where you are on a road trip and your car breaks down. Before the trip, you had a visit to your mechanic and everything was in perfect condition. You are stranded as you try to figure out what the issue may be. In such unfortunate instances is where an OBD2 Scanner becomes a lifesaver.
An OBD2 (Onboard Diagnostics 2) Scanner is a standardized system installed in vehicles for self-diagnostics. Many things could go wrong with your car even when it’s new. Sometimes it may be challenging to identify the exact reason for malfunction. Seeking your mechanic’s opinion is okay but may get expensive over time. Many faults can be corrected without professional help when identified.
The most reasonable step is to head to the nearest mechanic shop. Sometimes you may be out of reach of such shops or anyone who can help. Proceeding with your drive may put you and other road users in danger.
The issue may be an immediate problem like your spark plugs, and sometimes it may manifest itself later on. When you have your OBD2 Scanner, you can detect the problem quickly. This gadget will determine whether you can proceed with your drive or in need of towing services.
3. Hefty repair fees
As hard as it is to admit, auto repairs are pretty expensive. The estimation is that the fees eat up to almost 2 percent of your annual income. This figure is an average, and avid travelers typically exceed these figures.
Many people drive old cars, though comfortable, and end up spending a fortune on their repairs. These cars, unlike new ones, need more care and frequent servicing. In the long run, the repair fees are astonishing.
Most people don’t know they can fix and tackle the issues their cars have. Investing in an OBD2 scanner will identify and offer solutions to these issues. You can always refer to YouTube, where you don’t understand. You end up saving money which you would have paid out for something soo simple.
4. Manufacturer recalls
Receiving that call from your manufacture about a mass recall for your car will send your anxiety to the roofs. Sometimes the recalls may be small and harmless, but other times there could be a potential danger.
The repairs by the factories may take longer. It is unnerving to drive your car knowing it a possible ticking time bomb. The scanner comes in handy to identify whether the vehicle is road-worthy or not.
5. Vehicle dies in the middle of nowhere
Road trips are fun and entertaining until the car breaks down in the middle of nowhere. On top of that, it happens at night. Accessing a mechanic shop at that moment is impossible. Most shops are already closed anyway.
The malfunction may be easy to fix. If only there were a way to tell what the issue is. Well, the scanner solves this for you. Plug it, run the diagnostics, and the results are displayed. Fix your car and proceed with your trip.
Investing in an OBD2 scanner is practical. It not only buys you peace of mind but also offers clues on potential issues in your car. It saves you the hefty fees of frequent car repairs.
All these as it contributes towards making your car ownership experience worry-free. This tool is a must-have if you are looking for the ultimate performance of your car.
This is a collaborative article.
The News Wheel is a digital auto magazine providing readers with a fresh perspective on the latest car news. We’re located in the heart of America (Dayton, Ohio) and our goal is to deliver an entertaining and informative perspective on what’s trending in the automotive world. See more articles from The News Wheel.
