Plug the standard OBD2 connector into the vehicle’s port located under the driver’s side of the dashboard. Turn on the car to power the scan tool or code reader. If necessary, enter any vehicle-specific information requested. Many tools will ask for the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

– Safety first. …
– Ask to borrow the Scan Tool. …
– Locate the Data Link Connector (DLC) …
– Turn on the ignition, but don’t start the engine. …
– Wait 5 seconds, then plug in the reader. …
– Let the reader, read. …
– Write down vehicle information and mileage.

Subsequently, How do I scan my check engine light?

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Also, Does car have to be running to use OBD2 Scanner?

Always turn the ignition on or have the car running according to the instructions in the manual. Failure to do this might corrupt the scanning software. It’s also very important that you drive around with the manual for the specific scanner model that you’re using.

How do I connect OBD2 to my car?

– Using an OBD2 car diagnostic scanner is simple and straightforward. …
– Plug the standard OBD2 connector into the vehicle’s port located under the driver’s side of the dashboard.
– Turn on the car to power the scan tool or code reader.

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How do OBD scanners work?

The scanner connects to a port usually found underneath your dashboard on the driver side. These ports are standardized so any OBD-II scanner should be able to read codes from any OBD-II car. The scanner can then check for saved DTC and show you the codes on the scanner’s screen.

Can AutoZone read my check engine light?

Does AutoZone Scan Check Engine Lights? AutoZone does. If your light is on, and you are wondering why, head down to your local AutoZone where one of our store associates can help diagnose the issue through our free Fix Finder service.

How can I get my check engine light code without a scanner?

Flip your car’s ignition on and off a couple of times without cranking the engine and finish with the key in the on position. Your car will then check for any saved trouble codes. All the lights on the dash should light up until one remains on—usually the “service engine” light.

What can an OBD tell you?

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) is a system that monitors a car’s computer system and reports diagnostic trouble codes. Devices like an OBD-II code reader can read diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) that the system stores when something goes wrong.

What information does OBD2?

It can provide data about your car’s air temperature, coolant, crankshaft and camshaft, position, road speed, and throttle as well as engine RPM. There are two different types of OBD scanners currently on the market: Code readers and Scan tools.

What can a car code reader tell you?

A car code reader is one of the simplest car diagnostic tools you’ll find. They are designed to interface with a car’s computer and report trouble codes that can trigger check engine lights and other problems.

Where can I get my check engine light read?

You have a few options to get your check engine light diagnosed. You can take it to the dealer or an auto mechanic shop, to an auto parts store like AutoZone, or you can check it yourself with a scan tool. Dealer or auto mechanic shop.

Where do you plug in a car diagnostic tool?

Plug your car code reader into the diagnostic link connector under the dash (engine off). Then start the vehicle and follow the auto code reading procedure in the instruction manual. Nothing can knock your day off track faster than a “Check Engine” light popping up on your dash.

What is the purpose of OBD2?

OBD-II is an on-board computer that monitors emissions, mileage, speed, and other data about your car. It’s connected to the Check Engine light, which illuminates when the computer detects a problem. The OBD-II on-board computer features a 16-pin port located under the driver’s side dash.

Can you start a car through OBD2?

OBD-II port is standard available in all cars manufactured after 1996, where it was made mandatory by law. It became mandatory in the European Union after 2001 for gasoline vehicles and 2004 for diesel vehicles. Once connected, the AutoPi device will automatically start working.

What can you do with OBD2?

– Logging data from cars. OBD2 data from cars can e.g. be used to reduce fuel costs, improve driving, test prototype parts and insurance. …
– Real-time car diagnostics. …
– Predictive maintenance. …
– Vehicle blackbox logger.

Can I drive with OBD2 plugged in?

But many OBD devices now have an auto sleep mode, so it’s kind of a non-issue in most cases. The OBD device itself may stop working if you jump start the car with the device plugged in, but it’s a fairly safe device to plug in and use.

How do you use a code reader?

Plug your car code reader into the diagnostic link connector under the dash (engine off). Then start the vehicle and follow the auto code reading procedure in the instruction manual. Nothing can knock your day off track faster than a “Check Engine” light popping up on your dash.

How do I get the check engine light code?

– Step 1: Locate your vehicle’s OBD port. …
– Step 2: Plug your OBD scan tool into the connector. …
– Step 3: Read the codes in the computer. …
– Step 4: Record the codes that display. …
– Step 1: Break down your code into sections.

What will a code reader tell you?

An engine code reader/scanner can help you make the drive/no drive decision and even help you fix the problem. It works by plugging into the car’s computer system and displaying a “trouble code.” … A scanner gives you real-time “live” information so you see the same data your car’s computer is seeing.

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