An Easy And Affordable Tool For The Do-It-Yourselfer

2012-02-12T07:21:00.000-08:00

Saving money is more important than ever today. Especially when it comes to
car. Your car is a big investment. And an important one. If your car goes down, your life can almost come to a stop or at least make it very for you. Like the Dan Marino commercial in the 90's for Isotoner gloves, "Take care of the hands that take care of you", well you should "Take care of the car that takes care of you".

The most important tool you can have is an Auto Scanner. This is the perfect Do-It-Yourself auto tool for everyone. This tool can save you time and money by avoiding unnecessary trips to your mechanic. These scanners came out in 1996. It is very common to have your service engine light come on. The monitoring system that activates this light is very sensitive. Resetting a check engine light is very simple. The Auto Scanner makes this job easy and inexpensive. Why does the check engine light even exist? The Federal Government wants to notify drivers that your car may be contaminating the atmosphere. That's right. The main function of this light is for emission system compliance. Now you could disconnect the battery to turn off the engine light. But it is not recommended. If you clear the codes by doing this, and there is a hard failure in the engine control diagnostic system, then the light will pop right back on.

Not only will this tool read and erase codes with one button operation, but it is also an urgency indicator. The scanner will notify you through codes that there could be a serious problem, but in most cases it is a minor malfunction or intermittent condition.

The scanner is easy to use. It plugs in in a socket just under the dash on the drivers side. Very easy to see, feel, and get to. When the scanner is plugged in, push the read button, and it will display codes relating to any engine problem. Always write down any code numbers to see exactly what it relates to.

Connect the OBD II AutoScanner to the vehicle's Data Link Connector (DLC) which is normally located under the dash on the driver's side. Once the connection is made, the tool will turn on, boot, and then display the MAIN MENU. If the display is hard to read, adjust the contrast using the Tool Setup/Test function.

All AutoScanner functions can be performed with the Key On-Engine Off. The ERASE function cannot be done with the Key On-Engine Running.

The AutoScanner does the following: Reads Codes - Erases Codes - MIL Status (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) - I/M Monitors (Inspection and Maintenance)

VEHICLE INSPECTION

Many problems can be found can be found by performing a visual and "hands on" under the hood inspection before starting any diagnostic procedure.

1- Has the vehicle been serviced recently? Sometimes things are reconnected in the wrong place, or not at all.

2- Do not take shortcuts. Inspect all hoses and wiring which may be difficult to see because of location (under air cleaning housing, alternators, and similar components)

3- Inspect the air cleaner and ductwork for defects.

4- Check sensors and actuators for damage.

5- Inspect all vacuum hoses for correct routing.

6- Inspect electrical wiring for damaged insulation caused by sharp objects, or by hot surfaces such as engine or manifold.

7- Check for corroded and broken wires.

Once you get the code, you can then determine if is a problem you can fix yourself, such as replacing a part, or if it needs to go to your mechanic. But at least with the scanner you know exactly what it is or what it pertains to. That is what the scanner can help you with.

AUTO SCANNER BRANDS

Actron-This is the most popular brand. Founded in 1964, Actron has become one of the world's leading manufacturers of diagnostic equipment in the automotive after market industry. Actron brings easy to use and comprehensive equipment into the hand of the consumer.
Equus-This brand also has distributes Innova. Their brand of products targets the value conscious Do-It-Yourselfers.
OBD-
U581-
SPX-
Autel-This brand is manufactured in China.
Craftsman-Available mainly through Sears and Kmart
Innova-This brand is distributed through Equus.

Do your homework and compare prices and get reviews from other consumers who have used and rated the Auto Scanner. This is a great item to have, and can pay for itself with avoiding just one trip to your mechanic.

Analyze Your Car With This Great Tool-A Must Have For Everyone

An Easy And Affordable Tool For The Do-It-Yourselfer