Why use obd2 code reader?
All vehicles sold after 1996 were required to have a diagnostic system programmed in the obd2 code reader that let emission inspectors and service professionals track emissions related vehicle problems. Included in the system is a set of live records that has to be monitored when performing troubleshooting. This is possible because it allows the code reader to tap into the computer’s memory and analyze them in a quick manner. Fault codes will be generated as soon as any programmed part circuit/component goes beyond its assigned range. Example is an oxygen sensor that has sensed an overly rich or lean fuel mixture, a code will be generated in the computer memory.
When a code is flashed in the vehicle dash and retrieved by the code reader, it tells the user which circuit is affected. However, it does not tell you exactly how to fix it meaning as soon as the defective circuit is revealed, the user is expected to check and fix the suspected circuit/engine component. The advantage of the OBD2 code reader from its predecessor is its uniformity of its connections and standadization of the fault code names which was very confusing in the old OBD1 system. All the new changes in the OBD2 systems was also approved and mandated by the government’s Environmental Protection Agency.
When the obd2 code reader is plugged into the vehicle, it allows the serial data downloaded for quick analysis of the fault codes. On some models, a self test is incorporated to verify the integrity of the code reader and the engine components being tested. Resetting the engine computer can be done quickly by the obd2 code reader which is preferable than disconnecting the battery which can cause interruptions in the vehicle accessory circuits.
