An OBD2 scanner, also known as a car scanner or OBDII scanner, is an incredibly useful automotive tool that every car owner should consider having. The best part is, you don’t need to be a mechanic to learn how to use an OBD2 scanner effectively.
Having an OBD2 scanner provides you with significant control over your car’s mechanics and can potentially save you thousands of dollars in repair and maintenance costs. With an OBD2 diagnostic tool, you can:
TAKE BACK CONTROL OF YOUR CAR WITH CARLY
CLICK HERE
International shipping with DHL
30-day money-back guarantee on the OBD2 adapter
Top-notch customer support
Lifetime warranty on the OBD2 adapter
FEATURED ON
- Read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
- Customize your car through car coding
- Perform car maintenance and repairs
- Run an emissions control test
- Check your car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- Detect mileage fraud
In fact, Carly users who regularly perform diagnostic checks reportedly save up to $2,000 per year on repairs and maintenance.
Therefore, we will guide you on how to use an OBD2 scanner so you can maximize your car’s potential and start saving money.
Understanding OBD2: The Basics
OBD2, or On-Board Diagnostics II, is a diagnostic system integrated into modern vehicles. It provides access to a wide range of car data. This system is crucial for monitoring and diagnosing your car’s health, offering valuable information such as diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), vehicle speed, and other essential parameters. It uses a 16-pin connector, known as the OBD2 connector or Data Link Connector (DLC), to communicate with external testing equipment. Based on the CAN bus standard (ISO 15765), OBD2 is an indispensable tool for any vehicle owner, facilitating efficient and accurate maintenance and repair.
What is an OBD2 Scanner?
An OBD2 scanner is a compact, handheld device. It features a 16-pin connector that reads and allows you to access all your car’s data, presenting car data in an understandable format.
An OBD2 scanner functions through your vehicle’s OBD interface. OBD stands for On-Board Diagnostics. This interface stores comprehensive information about your car from each Electronic Control Unit (ECU).
To access this interface, you simply plug an OBD2 scanner into your car’s OBD2 port. Then, you can access all the data collected by the OBD device via a mobile app on your smartphone.
Key Components: The OBD2 Connector, Protocols, and PIDs
The OBD2 Connector (Data Link Connector)
The OBD2 connector, also known as the Data Link Connector (DLC), serves as the gateway to your vehicle’s diagnostic information. This 16-pin connector is typically located beneath the steering wheel or near the accelerator pedal area. There are two main types of OBD2 connectors: Type A and Type B. Type A is commonly found in passenger vehicles, while Type B is more frequent in heavy-duty vehicles. This connector is vital for establishing effective communication between your car’s OBD2 system and external diagnostic tools, enabling you to access critical data about your vehicle’s performance and health.
OBD2 Signaling Protocols
OBD2 signaling protocols are standardized digital communication languages that enable data transfer between the vehicle’s on-board computer and external diagnostic tools. These protocols, such as CAN bus (ISO 15765), ensure that data is transmitted efficiently and accurately, providing real-time information about the vehicle’s condition. The standardization of these protocols ensures compatibility with a wide range of diagnostic tools and software, facilitating access to critical data like diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and real-time sensor readings.
OBD2 Parameter IDs (PIDs)
OBD2 Parameter IDs (PIDs) are standardized codes that allow access to specific vehicle information through the OBD2 system. These PIDs include crucial data such as diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), vehicle speed, engine temperature, and other important parameters. By using an OBD2 scanner, you can access these PIDs to gain a detailed view of your car’s condition, diagnose issues, and monitor real-time performance. This information is invaluable for maintaining your vehicle in optimal condition and preventing major problems.
Choosing the Right OBD2 Scanner for You
Selecting the right OBD2 scanner might seem daunting, but with a few key considerations, you can find the perfect tool for your needs. First, ensure the scanner is compatible with your vehicle. A sophisticated OBD2 scanner should be capable of reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), providing real-time sensor readings, and resetting the “check engine light.” Additionally, look for a scanner with universal vehicle compatibility and the ability to scan various car systems, ensuring it works with a broad range of models and makes. Also, consider ease of use and additional features that may be beneficial, such as the ability to perform emissions tests and access historical vehicle data. With the right scanner, you’ll have a powerful tool to keep your car in top shape.
There are many different types of OBD2 scanners available, ranging from simple code readers to sophisticated vehicle scanning tools.
However, the appropriate scanner for you will depend on the type and level of detail of the data you wish to know about your car.
There are 3 key factors to help you determine the best scan tool for your car:
- Size and equipment you prefer
- Range of services offered
- Compatibility with your vehicle
1. Size and Equipment
Vehicle scanning tools vary in the complexity of equipment required. If you’re looking for a small and manageable tool, Bluetooth OBD2 scanners are an ideal solution. Being wireless scanners, they don’t require any additional equipment, making them highly portable.
However, if you prefer a more professional diagnostic tool, such as a handheld diagnostic scanner or diagnostic software, these are typically bulkier and may require additional equipment, like a computer.
2. Range of Features
Some scanner tools only provide basic diagnostic functions and generic codes. However, others offer more advanced features that any car enthusiast would desire.
For instance, with a basic scanner or code reader, you can only read diagnostic codes. You might also perform other basic functions like clearing fault codes (e.g., the check engine light). However, other scanners offer many more features, such as professional vehicle insights, car coding, live parameters, and more.
3. Compatibility
Regardless of the scanning tool you choose, some might not be compatible with your vehicle’s make and model. Moreover, if you are using a Bluetooth OBD-II scanner that comes with a mobile app, you must ensure the app is compatible with your phone’s operating system (Android or iOS).
There are many different operating systems for OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) devices. Some of the most popular operating systems are Android, iOS, Windows, and Linux.
Each operating system has its own set of features and benefits.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use a Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner
Bluetooth OBD2 scanners are among the most convenient scanning tools because they are portable, extremely easy to use, and provide valuable information. Being wireless, they do not need a connection cable or additional diagnostic equipment.
Therefore, besides the wireless scanner, all you need is your phone.
Through the scanner’s mobile app, you can view your car’s information on your smartphone whenever you want.
Here are 3 simple steps to follow when using the Carly Bluetooth OBD2 scanner for the first time.
-
Plug the OBD2 scanner into your car’s OBD port. Your car’s OBD-II port is usually located under the steering wheel or to the left of the accelerator. This port is a small socket and helps connect the adapter to all your car’s ECUs. You can find an OBD2 diagnostic port in most cars manufactured after 2001. If you can’t find it, you can check your car’s manual for the exact location.
-
Turn on your car’s engine. After turning on your car’s engine, the OBD2 scanner will start receiving information from all vehicle systems and components.
-
Turn on your phone’s Bluetooth and open the OBD2 scanner’s mobile app. Ensure you have downloaded the mobile app that is designed to be used with your OBD2 scanner. In this case, if you are using the Carly Universal Adapter, you can download the Carly app on both Android and iOS devices.
Afterward, open the Carly app and click “connect.” This will establish a Bluetooth connection between the Carly Scanner and your phone.
Once the connection is established, you can officially start having more control over your car. A good way to begin is to learn more about your car’s health and read trouble codes, such as the check engine light. Below are more functionalities you can explore on your car.
**FAQ about Using OBD2 Scanners**
**Can I leave the OBD2 scanner plugged into my vehicle's OBD2 port?**
Yes. You can leave the OBD2 scanner plugged into your vehicle's port. It is completely safe.
**Does the engine need to be running for the OBD2 scanner to work?**
Yes. When running a vehicle diagnostic or parameter check, your vehicle’s engine should be turned on.
**Does the OBD2 scanner cause any kind of damage to the vehicle?**
No, however, some low-quality OBD2 scanners can potentially damage your car. A proper, high-quality OBD2 scanner and app should not damage your car’s configurations. Even if you customize your car through car coding, you should always have the option to revert settings back to the original state. Therefore, it’s important to avoid buying counterfeit brands and instead purchase a scanner directly from the original brand's website.What Can You Do with an OBD2 Scanner?
Depending on the OBD2 scanner you purchase, you will have different features available, such as the ability to turn off the check engine light. Below, we will show you all the functions you can utilize on your car with the Carly Scanner.
OBD & Manufacturer Diagnostics: Reading and Clearing Error Codes
With the diagnostics feature, you can read and clear basic OBD codes, which pertain to all error codes related to your car’s engine only. For example, you can monitor engine-related codes, such as the check engine light.
Additionally, you can also read manufacturer-specific codes (also called diagnostic trouble codes). Manufacturer-specific codes are errors related to all other systems, such as the ABS, airbags, brakes, etc.
By performing a diagnostic check, you will be able to see:
- All active codes in your vehicle (like warning lights)
- The severity level of error codes
- The code definition to understand their meaning
- The overall health status of your car (determined by the number of issues present and their severity level)
By reading the error codes stored in the car’s on-board computer, drivers can quickly identify and address any issues that may be affecting their car’s performance. Moreover, these on-board diagnostics (OBD) can also provide valuable insights into a car’s fuel efficiency and emission levels.
Furthermore, with the Smart Mechanic feature, you can access information that professional mechanics access through error codes.
For example, you can see a professional description of the code, get repair tips, and see predictive analyses for each error code. This is a great feature to help you better understand fault codes and fix them on your own.
Coding: Customize Your Vehicle
Another feature that all car enthusiasts love is coding. This allows you to activate or deactivate pre-set features in your car that are established by the vehicle manufacturer.
Coding your car is extremely easy with Carly’s intuitive user interface. In the Carly app, you will see a list of all the coding options available for your car.
With just a tap, you can unlock new functionality in your vehicle. Plus, if you want to reverse the change, you can easily restore to the original settings.
Here are some of the most popular car codings:
- Deactivating the automatic start-stop system
- Customizing welcome lights and angel eyes
- Automatically locking doors when reaching a certain speed
- Rolling windows up or down with your car key
Live Parameters: Reading Real-Time Data
Additionally, if you want to know more about your car’s current condition, you can track live parameters. For example, you can view temperature and pressure values or check the turbo pressure.
This can be especially useful when fault codes, like the check engine light, turn on, and you want to learn more about your car engine’s parameters.
Used Car Check: Detect Mileage Fraud
The used car check feature is very helpful if you are looking to buy or sell a used car. If you are a buyer, you can ensure that the car you are interested in has not been illegally tampered with and is not stolen.
If you want to check if your car has been illegally manipulated, Carly will give you an accurate mileage report. This way, you can verify if the car’s actual mileage differs from what is shown on its speedometer. If it does, you can be certain that the odometer has been manipulated, and you can avoid purchasing that car.
Guide to Perform Simple Maintenance on Your Own
Many times, we are charged for basic car maintenance and repairs that we can easily do on our own.
The car maintenance feature will provide you with clear guides to carry out your own basic maintenance. Therefore, you no longer have to fully depend on your mechanic and can save more money.
Emissions Test: Ensure You Will Pass the Emissions Test
Before taking the official emissions test, you can run your own test in the Carly App to ensure you will pass. The Carly app will scan all emissions control systems in your car. Then, it will give you an overview of which emissions controls need to be fixed. This way, you will know what needs to be fixed in your car to get it ready for the official exam.
Digital Garage: Access On-Board Diagnostic Reports
Having a history of your car’s on-board diagnostic checks is very helpful for your mechanic.
Additionally, it can also be a very valuable way to make sure your mechanic has not caused further damage to your car. All you have to do is perform a diagnostic check before and after taking your car to the mechanic shop. Afterward, if there is a new issue in your car, you can prove that it was not there before taking your car to the mechanic.
Learn to Use an OBD2 Scanner and Become a Pro
After following the steps above, you will know how to use an OBD2 scanner and get the most out of your car. With your own Carly OBD2 Scanner, you no longer have to fully depend on an auto mechanic.
Moreover, you can obtain the advanced features offered by an expensive scanner or sophisticated car scanning tool. Thus, instead of paying over $3,000 for a professional scan tool, you can get the Carly OBD2 Scanner for as low as $130.
Furthermore, Carly’s positive reviews have established it as one of the best on-board diagnostic scanners. So you can have the confidence that you are getting a great solution that will pay for itself in the first use.
Having your own diagnostic tool is the best way to have much more control over your vehicle. So, are you ready to start using your own OBD2 scanner?
