OBD2 scan tools are for sale to use by vehicle owner and are available in a wide range of price and function. Professional mechanics usually have access to more sophisticated readers. Whatever the type of code reader you will find the way it is used is really the same.
To start with you will generally need a cable to connect with a scanner or a PC with OBD2 software. Most scanners are universal for the reason that they will read the most common codes, however some of them may work with certain vehicles so ensure that the scanner you've got is compatible with your vehicle.
Always make sure that the vehicle's engine is powered down before connecting the various readers.
Locate the OBD2 system connection plug. In case your vehicle is compliant with OBD2 protocols it's going to have a female 16-pin connection plug typically nearby the center console around the driver's side. Different vehicles may have different locations like beneath the steering wheel, behind the ashtray, involving the front seats or under the driver's seat. A quick check online should let you find the location for your particular vehicle whether it isn't readily noticeable.
Look at the vehicle's connector plug to ensure all the necessary pins exist. Most importantly the #4 and #5 pin for grounding as well as the #16 pin for the battery power supply.
Connect your OBD2 scan tool to the vehicle's computer. Your cable with the 16-pin plug at one end should hook up to the female port on your vehicle. Then connect the alternative end of your cable to your scanner.
An alternative choice to a hand-held scanner would be to connect to a personal computer that has OBD2 software attached to it. You might need a cable with the 16-pin connector using one end having a USB connector on the other half to hook up with your PC. Bluetooth connectors can also be found for this application.
Once you are connected it might take a short interval of energy for the reader to initialize. Your scanner will look at the vehicle's computer to find out which protocol is needed and the increase the risk for connection. The scanner will browse the malfunction code saved in your vehicle's computer and display it on the screen.
To interpret the code you may have to consult the service manual for the vehicle however some scanners will give you information for basic codes. Some scanner manufacturers also provide access to programs that may interpret the code and supply repair procedures depending on that code.
