Others may do only engine performance and emissions, but not ABS, air bags or anything else. Some may not display all of the same PIDs (parameter identification) or data lines as the dealer tool. The version they sell to the aftermarket may not be a full-featured unit and may lack some of the diagnostic tests or other capabilities that are included in the tool used by the new car dealer technicians. To make matters worse, some factory scan tools are essentially "dealer only" tools.
Unfortunately, OEM factory scan tools also are the most expensive and least flexible way to go. Factory scan tools generally provide access to all the diagnostic trouble codes (both "generic OBD II" and "enhanced"), all the on-board test procedures, and usually most of the on-board electronics beyond engine performance and emissions (such as ABS, air bag, suspension and so on, if these systems have scan tool diagnostics). If you are a professional technician and specialize in a single import nameplate, for example, the OEM factory scan tool probably will be your best choice. How do you choose from such an array of products? FACTORY OR AFTERMARKET SCAN TOOL?
There are dedicated scan tools and software for converting laptop PCs, tablets and smart phones into code readers and scan tools. There are OEM scan tools and aftermarket scan tools. There are basic code readers, pre-OBD II scan tools and OBD II-compliant scan tools. Some require a major investment while others are relatively cheap.įinding the scan tool that is right for you is not easy because there are so many different ones from which to choose. Some can perform a wide range of tasks, while others can do only a few limited functions. Some are slim, hand-held models and others are more bulky.
Some tools have more features than others. You cannot always get everything you want in a single scan tool. You want a scan tool that will work on your vehicle (or the vehicles you service most often if your are a professional technician), is user friendly (easy to use menus) and is upgradeable. Scan Tool Diagnostics: Choosing a scan tool that's right for you Copyright Īdapted from an article written by Larry Carley for Import Car magazineīuying a scan tool is easy, but figuring out which scan tool is the best one for you takes some research.
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