Not so long ago, car diagnostics usingThe computer seemed something fantastic. In the modern world, with a large number of software and hardware, this procedure has become more accessible to a wide range of motorists. To carry out computer diagnostics of the car with their own hands does not require expensive equipment and technology.
Why do I need a diagnosis?
Checking car components using electronicdevice helps to know their condition without parsing and thorough study of damage. This is done through the use of special electronic auto systems and receiving data from them. However, not all models are equipped with such equipment and cannot be scanned using software.
How to carry out computer diagnostics of the car?
Many models of auto release after 2005equipped with a special connector, which receives special signals about the state of devices and nodes. It is located in most cases in the area of the steering column or on the console. Before conducting self-diagnostics, you should refer to the user manual.
Earlier models can be equipped with a connector that is located under the hood. In this case, it is most likely not universal and you will have to look for an adapter for a specific model.
Ways to connect
For computer diagnosticsCar today there are two basic approaches - using a PC and a smartphone or tablet. And in the first and in the second case, you will need to use special software. In addition, you need a device that can read errors submitted by electronic systems of the car. One of the most popular and compact ones is the ELM327.
Diagnostics by the example of ELM327
The ELM327 autoscanner connects to the car throughOBD2 connector. It is universal, it can read codes from different models of equipment and connects to both a personal computer and to Android-based mobile phones.
There is a wide range of software for ELM327software for computer diagnostics of cars. The software is available for both the Windows family and Android. And there are both paid and free analogues.
Description of the process step by step
First you should find the location of the connectorOBD2, if available. Then you need to insert the ELM327 into it. It should be noted that this scanner can be supplied in several different versions - Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or cable. Depending on the type and software is selected for computer diagnostics of the car.
The most famous program - Torque for "Android". It shows errors, general condition of the car and other current parameters, for example, node temperature, engine speed, its power, etc.
In this program, computer diagnostics car is interested in the possibility of displaying error codes. It is for them that the malfunction is determined, which subsequently has to be repaired.
It is worth noting that there are two types of errors - ever happened or ongoing. The second type is used for diagnostics.
There are different versions for the Windows environment.For example, ScanMaster-ELM does its job well. It has a great set of settings and options. You can set a profile for a specific car if you plan to conduct a scan on other models or brands in the future.
Also, the program can display information aboutcars, such as VIN, a variety of readings from the sensors, temperature, speed and many other useful information. It has a convenient interface and is not demanding on the hardware of the computer. For ELM327 versions with Bluetooth, you will need the same technology on your PC.
After issuing error codes usedspecial table, according to which one or another malfunction is initialized. It is quite extensive, but it is easy to find on the Web in the public domain. Each code characterizes a specific type of node and its specific malfunction.
It is worth saying that such a diagnosis will not give a 100% result. It will only allow to identify the most likely places of malfunction.
Effects
After successful diagnosis and repairerrors must be removed. This can be done by many programs, including the aforementioned Torque. Why is this necessary? This will make it possible to avoid doubts during subsequent diagnosis.
Finally
Equipment for computer diagnosticscar in our time can be purchased by anyone. In addition, more than half of it is likely to be available. This is a laptop or tablet. It remains to find a suitable scanner or adapter and download the software.
Still carry out computer diagnostics inhome conditions extreme measure. It is better to turn to specialists for this. Without skills in engineering and understanding of the mechanisms of the electronic control units of the car, it will be problematic to establish what happened to the car.
