What is a diagnostic code scanner?

Question

where do I get one and how much does it cost?
how do I work one?
how do I learn what each code is?

I drive an 05 Chevy Aveo (GM) and a 97 Nissan Sentra.

Answer 1

Code readers can be purchased from any automotive parts stores nationwide for a couple hundred dollars. Using them is pretty straightforward once you read the instructions. With the operating instructions, will be a list of all the code definitions. However, those codes DO NOT "tell you what part needs to be replaced", as what most of the general public seems to think. Those codes are as good as trying to read Chinese, if you don't have a good understanding of the workings of the modern electronically controlled engine management systems. For example, if you get a P0401 (EGR flow insufficient), that does not necessarily mean your EGR valve needs to be replaced. It only means your PCM (powertrain control module) has DETECTED insufficient flow by way of electronic "input" from the EGR pressure transducer. This could be caused by a short or open circuit to the transducer, or EGR passages that are carboned up, the transducer itself failed, or in the rare instance, a stuck closed EGR valve. The point here is, it is NOT a tool that will "tell" you what part to replace, but rather what AREA to look for your concern. Hope this explains it clearly enough.
Edit: the code reader I mentioned that anyone can purchase from most major automotive parts retailers are NOT what the dealerships, or mechanics use. The scan tools used by the dealers usually cost around $10,000, and the Snap-On or MAC tools scanners usually cost anywhere between $3,000 to $5,000 depending on the model. Hopefully this puts things into perspective.

Answer 2

Scan tools are designed to read OBDII or CAN codes from your vehicles. Typically, your car will tell you something is wrong when the 'check engine' light comes on.

You would hook the scan tool up to your vehicle from a port under the dash. The scanner will read the code, and interpret it for you. Getting a listing of all of the codes is difficult unless you move into a snap on modis or OTC genisys (high $$$ units).

Once you fix the problem the scan tool has identified, you need to go in and reset the code. This will turn off your check engine light.

Finding one affordable scanner that will work for you could be tough. I am not sure that the Nissan (import) would be covered on the less expensive units. Also, I am not positive what year Nissan switched to OBDII (1994 or 1998). If it is older, you will need a special cable to read codes. Your best bet might be to check e-bay for a snap-on brick (I believe their part number is MT2500) that has the import card and the 2006 updates.

Answer 3

i own a repair shop ,and its a scanner tool that tells you what the codes are on a vehicle,unless you know exactly what the codes are and what they mean a scanner tool is really useless to you,most of them come with a instruction book and list of trouble codes,and these can cost anywhere from 50 bucks all the way up to 500 or more,one for your vehicles should cost around 35 bucks,but learn the meaning of the codes,or you will wind up spending a lot more money on parts than you need to ,a lot of other people have tried this also,and are learning some things are better off being done by a mechanic,good luck with it,i hope this helps.

Answer 4

It is a hand held computer which links to your car computer and will read the codes, tell you what they mean and even erase codes for you. They range in price from about $50 to around $300 or more. I personally have the $300 model from Pep Boys and it does everything I need it to do and I highly recommend that model. You simply plug the computer into the car --- it will automatically turn on and use the car's power. The codes are explained by the computer, but for a more complete explanation I go to Pep Boys and ask what each means. They are very helpful at explaining what each code means and how to fix the code problem.

Answer 5

you need to purchase the actron mini scanner, it in simple terms supplies the hardship codes-cost $40 9-$fifty 9. you need to purchase the actron obd 2 scanner for $149. Or the large scanner, scans the two obd a million and obd 2 cost for this one is $379.ninety 9. My very own well known is the autoxray ez 5000 sequence it does the two obd a million and a couple of for Ford, GM and Chrysler. It does all imports 1996 and up. the fee for the motor vehicle x ray is $289. i could advise it while you're intense approximately doing all your individual maintenance.

Answer 6

Go to Autozone or some other auto parts place and get an OBD2 reader. It plugs in under the dash on most new cars and will tell you the faults and what is wrong with your car. They cost from about 70- about 200. There are some that are used commercially that can run into the thousands.

Answer 7

It is used to scan your vehicles onboard computer to see if it is showing any trouble codes. People usually do not think of it till they see the Check Engine light on. When you take it to the dealer, that is what they use to find the problem. You can buy them on the net and they will come with specific instructions and codes for your vehicle. Hope this helps...

Answer 8

http://www.obd2works.com , as a professional auto diagnostic tools online supplier, providing our customers with a vast range of high-quality and affordable automotive maintenance tools.Our main business line covers: Automotive Professional Diagnostic Tools for OBD I and OBD II compliant vehicles; Auto Diagnostic tool, OBD2 Code Scanners, ECU Chip Tuning Tool, Car Key programmer Mileage Programmer as well as other more featured products.

Answer 9

it is a computer that you hook up to your car when your check engine light is on and it will tell you what engine or transmission sensor is bad