What Is An OBD Scanner, And Do You Need One?

Have you ever had error codes displayed on your car dashboard, only to be confused as to what is wrong with your car. If you take it to a garage, they will likely attach it to a device that scans your dashboard computer and diagnoses which errors are displayed in your car. This device is known as an OBD scanner, or On-Board Diagnostic. There are two types of OBD scanners, so keep reading to understand the difference between an OBD1 and OBD2 scanner. This article should cover the basics of its function and lead you to a better understanding of this useful tool.

Advances In Technology

The first type of diagnostic tool was simply known as an OBD scanner, which was later developed through advanced technology and given the name OBD1 scanner. Further developments gave us the OBD2 scanner, which is the latest in such types of diagnostic tools.

Differences Between The Two Types Of Scanners

These are the key differences we could find: 

Connections

While the older type (OBD1) is operated via wired connection to the console, the modern equivalent (OBD2) works through Bluetooth or WiFi, essentially giving a wireless experience. 

Reports and Details

The OBD2 is able to give more high-quality reporting because it shows the details in coding. In other words, it shows a clearer picture of what is wrong with a vehicle.

Car Manufacture Date and Other Manufacturer Related Information

The OBD1 is actually designed to support older cars – that is, cars that were manufactured in 1995 or before. OBD2 provides support for cards made after 1996. It also doesn’t support models made before 1991, because that is when it was first released.)  Note that the older scanner can only work for specific models. As in, you will need a different diagnostic device depending on the manufacturer of your car. One the other hand, OBD2 can support a variety of different cars from different manufacturers, making it a more universal choice.

Popularity

Overall, there is a reason that OBD 2 is a popular option, simply because it is the better diagnostic device. It provides advanced functions and even gives suggestions on how to fix the problem. 

Now that you understand what an OBD scanner is, and the different types available, you can go ahead and purchase one if you feel that you will need it often. Otherwise, you can simply rely on your mechanic to have one, because he will surely need it in his diagnosis. OBD1 is more appropriate for people who own cars that are older. Note that both types are still in use today, so be careful when you are shopping for one as you might buy the wrong type which will be absolutely useless in diagnosing the problem. 

Hopefully this article sheds some light on the two types of On-Board Display scanners, and helps you decide whether or not you need one, and which type you should get for your car. Remember that early diagnosis helps you repair the issue before it gets out of hand.