It also has permanent code retrieval, on-board monitor test (Mode 6, for additional component/system monitoring), reads fault code pending data, DTC code lookup function and lets you reset the oil change indicator. CAN employ a twisted pair of wires (one wire CAN high typically 3.5-2.5 volts oscillating and the other CAN low typically 2.5 – 1.5 volts oscillating) that loop the vehicle, connecting all the modules on the network. An advanced OBD II vehicle diagnostic reader that comes with a TFT colour display. Suitable for all kinds of users including roadside mechanics, garage mechanics and home mechanics.

It has all of the features of the other offerings in this test and displays monitor and I/M readiness status (which provide insight into the car’s emission control systems), O2 sensor info and evap system tests capabilities (mostly concerns US models with a charcoal canister to trap and store fuel vapours). Industry-recognised diagnostic code reader that is suitable for all kinds of users, including roadside mechanics, garage mechanics and home mechanics. All these modules (aka nodes) communicate with each other using a system known as CAN (Controller Area Network). A scoping tool works best for capturing glitches in network systems. But we’ll work with just a DVOM as most will have access to a voltmeter. The device will work with all OBD II certified vehicles from 2001 onwards (including CAN). Not compatible with motorcycles and hybrid & electric vehicles.Please note: The reader will not be able to read codes for airbags and braking systems. OBD II readers mainly read OBD II codes (emissions systems) in 99.9% of vehicles. Wireless readers are smaller and generally cheaper, but need a connection to a smartphone or tablet. Wired readers are more convenient, easier to use with gloves and grimy hands, but usually provide less information. We tested both. A scan tool commonly won’t communicate because one faulty module pulls the whole system down. A damaged circuit is common too, but not as common as a failed module. Tool software – Ensure your scan tool has the latest and greatest software installed. Many tools offer free updates.

The product is supplied with an in-depth user manual which explains all the diagnostic codes and operation instructions. A simple yet effective OBD reader, the Laser 7728 doesn’t show live data or have freeze frame, and the screen’s small size means there’s lots of button-pressing involved. What’s more, the tool gives live vehicle data readings and there’s a “Code Lookup” feature that provides a clear explanation of the diagnostics codes. Your vehicle is stuffed with modules, each one tasked with a particular system to manage. Your ECU (Engine Control Unit) takes care of the engine, your TCM (Transmission Control Module) takes care of the tranny, and your BCM (Body Control Module) takes care of the vehicle accessories. You get the idea. Hard codes, on the other hand, are current static faults that are affecting vehicle system performance. These types of codes need to be repaired before they can be cleared from the computer module.

This test won’t work for all vehicles; it will depend on how the vehicle’s communication system is configured. Some systems may use a gateway module that limits the usefulness of probing the DLC. In such a vehicle, reading at a module harness is more valuable. The reader requires no battery, it plugs straight into the vehicle’s connection point for it to power up. It is compatible with all petrol vehicles from 1996 and diesel vehicles from 2004 that are OBD II compliant (including CAN). No batteries are required to operate the diagnostic tool. Just connect it to the OBD II connection point to power it up. The tool is compatible with petrol vehicles from 1996 onwards and diesel vehicles 2004 onwards. Please ensure the vehicle is OBD II compatible.

You’re unlikely to find any information about your car’s OBD port in the vehicle’s handbook because manufacturers prefer their dealer networks to carry out diagnostic work (at potentially great expense to you!). Which OBD app is best for iPhone and Android? The tool also runs a number of diagnostic tests such as the O2 sensor test, I/M readiness test and EVAP test.Experience has shown me it’s best to look for clues and ask some questions if needed before testing components. I’ll look for signs of recent accident damage, water leaks, heavy corrosion, or recent works carried out on the vehicle. We plugged the readers into a selection of cars of different ages, including a 2008 Mazda 2 and 2014 Peugeot 208 with known faults that were generating a warning light. Wireless readers were connected via Bluetooth to an iPhone using the app suggested by the device’s instructions. Verdict OBD scanners have become an essential part of the home mechanic’s toolkit, with the ability to read engine fault codes crucial to diagnosing and repairing modern cars and vans. This reader’s large colour display looks like it should be a touchscreen, but it’s not. However, the physical buttons make navigation a cinch.