For car owners venturing into DIY diagnostics, understanding vehicle issues begins with reading trouble codes. The Cen-tech Can Obdii Code Reader 60794 is often seen as an entry-level tool for this purpose. But what does it really offer, and is it sufficient for your needs? Let’s delve into the world of OBDII scanners and explore where the Cen-Tech 60794 fits in, and when you might need to consider more advanced options.
Basic OBDII code readers like the Cen-Tech 60794 are designed to access “Global OBDII” data. This is a standardized set of diagnostic information that all vehicle manufacturers are required to make accessible. Think of it as the common language for car diagnostics. With the Cen-Tech 60794, you can retrieve these basic codes related to engine and emissions issues on most vehicles. This can be helpful for identifying common problems and clearing check engine lights.
However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations. While the Cen-Tech 60794 and similar basic readers cover “most” vehicles for basic OBDII functions, this typically means they primarily support systems like engine and sometimes transmission on common makes such as GM, Chrysler, and Ford. They often fall short when it comes to accessing manufacturer-specific data.
Modern vehicles have complex systems beyond the basics – ABS, airbags, body control modules, and more. Manufacturers provide their own “manufacturer data” which goes deeper into these systems. Basic OBDII readers like the Cen-Tech 60794 generally cannot access this expanded data. For a more comprehensive diagnosis, especially when dealing with issues beyond the engine, you’ll likely need a more advanced scan tool.
For instance, if you work on Honda vehicles, a tool like the Foxwell NT510 (available around $170) is a significant step up. While it also handles standard OBDII on any car, its strength lies in accessing full manufacturer data for specific brands. For Honda, the NT510 can read data from ABS, transmission, engine, body, TPMS, and other systems. Furthermore, the Foxwell NT510 boasts bidirectional control. This professional-level feature allows you to activate components – like cooling fans or AC clutches – for targeted diagnostic testing, something the Cen-Tech 60794 and similar basic readers cannot do.
Another option for broader vehicle coverage (but without bidirectional control) is the Autel MD802. In the same price range as the Foxwell NT510, the Autel MD802 reads global OBDII and manufacturer data for a wide range of vehicle makes (1996 and newer). While it won’t activate components, it offers deeper insights into various vehicle systems across different brands compared to a basic OBDII reader.
It’s worth noting that even advanced tools can have limitations, especially with older vehicles (1996-2000s) as the OBDII standard was still evolving. Data availability can vary. For example, a 1998 Nissan 200SX might not fully communicate manufacturer engine data even with an Autel MD802 through the standard OBDII port. In such cases, factory-level tools or specialized ports might be needed.
In conclusion, the Cen-Tech CAN OBDII Code Reader 60794 serves as a basic entry point for reading generic OBDII codes. It can be a budget-friendly tool for simple check engine light diagnoses. However, for deeper diagnostics, accessing manufacturer-specific data, or performing component testing, investing in a more capable scan tool like the Foxwell NT510 or Autel MD802 is advisable. Understanding your diagnostic needs and the capabilities of different scan tools is key to choosing the right tool for your automotive tasks.
