The OBD2 code reader is an on-board diagnostic tool used to detect vehicle faults. In times past, detecting vehicle faults was a herculean task but since 1996 when vehicles with on-board diagnosis capabilities were released in the United States of America and in 2001 in Europe, there has been great improvement in vehicle troubleshooting. However, understanding how a code reader works will help you in determining whether you need one or not.

It is not all the time that you will be taking your car to the mechanic because it is not every time that the display of check engine light means that you have to replace something in your car. By simply running a scan check, you can decide whether to carry out a little maintenance on your own or take it to the mechanic.

The OBD car code reader will always give you a real-time component voltage and current outputs that may include O2 sensors, throttle positioning and vehicle-speed sensors. It allows you view any stored diagnostic trouble codes which are the key components that help you in trouble shooting problems with cars and trucks. The readers are made on different varieties of shape and size with some having to work in conjunction with a laptop computer and software. With such readers, you will be required to get cable and software that can work with your laptop computer. Other readers are handheld and do all the same functions from one portable package.

You don't have to be a mechanic to own an OBD II code reader. You don't even have to be a car enthusiast. The truth is, any vehicle owner can get good use out of these tools. Below you'll find a few reasons you might consider getting your hands on an OBD II code reader.

1. It's easy to use- If you're the average vehicle owner, you're probably thinking, "OBD II code reader? Sounds confusing." Not true. Just plug it in and read the codes. If you can't figure out what the codes mean, never fear. Many OBD II code readers include code libraries to translate them for you.

2. Save you a trip to a mechanic- By using an OBD II code reader to read your car's computer, you have the information you need to fix it yourself. This saves you all the hassle of finding a reputable mechanic, which can prove difficult. It also keeps you from having to take time to drop off your car and coordinate with someone to pick you up.

3. Gives you an idea of what to expect- Maybe after working a long, hard week, the last thing in the world you want to do is fix your own car. Or maybe you are just completely clueless when it comes to anything mechanical. Well, you can still benefit from owning an OBD CR. If you check your own codes, you'll know what's wrong with your car. When you take your car into the shop, you'll have a good idea of how much money you're about to spend. And if your mechanic tries to swindle you, you've got the data to prove it. OBD II code readers record and playback information. They also allow you to hook up to a computer and print reports, which you can take with you to the mechanic.

It is advisable to purchase a reader that supports many protocols because you will be able to use it on different brands of vehicles. Remember that you can change your vehicle anytime and it won't be ideal to buy a new reader when you change your vehicle. As a result of this, choose a reader that supports multiple protocols like Variable Pulse Width Modulation (VPW), Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), Controller Area Network (CAN), Pulse Code Modulation (PCM) just to mention a few.

It's undeniable, an OBD II code reader can save any vehicle owner money. Why not search for an affordable OBD II reader today?

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