Modern Auto Mechanic Scan Tools By Aaron Huber

Modern vehicles are a complex design of electronics and mechanical components. Special equipment is needed to keep these vehicles operating in top shape. Like almost any profession continuing education will be necessary to stay ahead of new technology.

Vehicle Computer

Modern automobiles may show problems through fault lights that can be retrieved as fault codes that require electronic equipment to decipher.

Proper test equipment like the Snap-on MODIS device pictured above are used to retrieve fault codes. These codes can be complicated to diagnose. One problem can generate multiple codes.

Newer vehicles have plug for diagnostic devices. The OBD-II diagnostic port pictured above is found on all automobiles made from 1996 til today.

A proper adapter is needed to plug in diagnostic devices in any vehicle pre OBD-II era.

The Matco Determinator scan system can read engine fault codes and stream live vehicle data. It can even be connected to the vehicle while driving to monitor all computer controlled devices.

It is very important to be comfortable reading graphs and be able to interpret the data because the scales on the graphs are constantly changing.

There are many scan systems to choose from. Selecting the right one can be a difficult task. Above is a list of just one companies scan tool models.

Conclusion It is best to do research on your needs before selecting any tools or scanners. Price's range from $100 to $10,000+ making it difficult decision.