What to Look for in an OBD2 Scanner?

An OBD2 scanner is a valuable tool for diagnosing a car for problems. The scanner is essential for car owners because it provides the user with basic information on their vehicle while saving costs on automobile maintenance at a car repair shop. Knowing how to use an OBD2 scanner helps the driver troubleshoot faults with their car before the situation worsens.

Some of the expected benefits of using an OBD2 scanner are:

Identifying faults in the car
Carrying out test emissions check
Interpreting diagnostic codes
Inspecting the VIN of a vehicle
Customizing the car through coding

These benefits are just the tip of the iceberg regarding the advantages of owning an OBD2 scanner. It has been proven that using an OBD2 scanner regularly improves the longevity of a car by providing the car owner with information that detects early signs of problems and deterioration. So, what does a driver need to look for in an OBD2 scanner before purchasing one?

What is an OBD2 Scanner?

Knowing what an OBD2 scanner is and how it works is essential. An OBD2 scanner is a pocket-sized device that reads information on a car and indicates which parts may have issues. The OBD2 scanner connects to the OBD2 port of a vehicle on the driver's side. Once the OBD2 scanner is plugged in, the device scans and assesses the vehicle's condition. All information is made available via an interface displayed on the surface of the OBD2 scanner's screen.

What to Look for When Choosing the Right OBD2 Scanner for the Right Vehicle

As diverse as OBD2 scanners can be, the devices range from simple to complicated. Therefore, the car owner must identify a suitable scanner for their cars. For example, a BMW or GM OBD2 scanner will perform differently from the OBD2 scanner of a Toyota.

Generally, there are three things to consider when selecting a suitable OBD2 scanner for a vehicle.

Compatibility with a vehicle
The size of the scanner required
Diversity of features

Compatibility with a Vehicle: Compatibility is crucial when buying an OBD2 scanner because some cars are selective when connecting with an OBD2 scanner.

Furthermore, if the OBD2 scanner is a Bluetooth version, the driver must ensure that their phone is compatible with the operating system of the scanner's app. Certain OBD2 scanners are specific to particular car models; hence, checking for compatibility is essential. The Foxwell OBD2 scanners have many options that are compatible with most vehicles, making them an ideal start for new car owners.

Size of Scanner Required: The size of the OBD2 scanner determines the level of diagnosis that a car owner can get from it. The smaller scanners are typically best suited for simple diagnosis, mostly only displaying information.

However, live data OBD2 scanners that give in-depth analysis are usually bigger and heavier but offer more car diagnosis options. Fortunately, the Foxwell OBD2 scanner has two options that can serve smaller and bigger cars. The Foxwell NT530 supports over 50 car brands and offers complete diagnosis while performing more complex system analysis, while the Foxwell NT809 highlights and displays the fundamental problems.

Diversity of Features: The range of features that the more complex OBD2 scanner provides is endless. From vehicle insights to real-time analysis and odometer fraud detection, OBD2 scanners can give complete details about a car.

On the other hand, simpler scanners can perform more basic tasks like checking the engine light and the condition of the fuel pump. The simpler scanners are also more budget-friendly. Foxwell OBD2 scanners have many features for any vehicle, with options to pick from depending on the complexity of the user's car.

How to Use a Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner

Learning how to use an OBD2 scanner is straightforward, but a Bluetooth scanner is even more convenient. Once the user has purchased a scanner, they have to plug it into the OBD2 port in the car. However, a driver can look into getting a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner for smaller and less complicated cars.

Firstly, Bluetooth OBD2 scanners are portable, making them easy to carry around and travel with.

Secondly, the driver requires only their phone to connect to the Bluetooth OBD2 scanner's app. There is no need for extra cables or equipment.

Thirdly, through the app, the user gets a breakdown of their car's telemetry and all the necessary information on their phone.

Here's a step-by-step process of connecting a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner to a car:

Plug the Bluetooth fob into the OBD2 port, which is located on the driver's side
Turn on the vehicle, but do not start the engine
Download the mobile app for the OBD2 scanner and turn on the phone's Bluetooth.
Once the connection has been established, the OBD2 scanner will collect information from the car system.
Error codes will start to appear if there are any problems with the car, and the driver can determine the issues with their vehicle.

Understanding Error Codes: It's not enough for a driver to see the error codes on an OBD2 scanner. They must also be able to interpret the codes. Once the OBD2 scanner is connected, a five-digit code will emerge. This code informs the driver of the issues plaguing their vehicle. This five-digit code is also known as a Diagnostic Trouble Code, and it can give a precise diagnosis of car troubles. Foxwell OBD2 scanners come with a manual to help car owners understand the DTC codes and determine how to fix their cars.

Code Customizing a Car: Most OBD2 scanner reviews focus on the diagnosis aspect of the device. However, customization options are also available. The car owner can look into the customization options and change the default settings on their car to their needs. Therefore, the driver can change the base manufacturer's features on their cars and revert to the original features. This car coding function can be appealing to a driver looking to fully utilize the power of an OBD2 scanner.

Examples of car coding are:

Locking doors automatically when reaching a certain speed
Changing the color of the headlights
Reconfiguring start and stop systems

Foxwell OBD2 scanners grant drivers the privilege to modify their car features however they please.

Conclusion

Knowing what to look for when buying an OBD2 scanner unlocks a new world for drivers. Anyone can diagnose their cars and determine specific faults. Customization options are also available to personalize the driving experience for each car owner. Fortunately, anyone in the market for a state-of-the-art OBD2 scanner should look no further. The Foxwell OBD2 scanners cover all the bases for analyzing car troubles. Say goodbye to frequent mechanic visits.

FAQs

Do OBD2 Scanners Have a Bluetooth Version?

Yes, one can get OBD2 scanners that are Bluetooth enabled. These versions are portable and compact.

What Do I Need to Look for When Choosing the Right OBD2 Scanner for My Car?

When selecting the right OBD2 scanner, you have to check for compatibility, the size of the scanner, and the range of features. All these factors will determine the right scanner for you.