Home - Engine - Questions - Links - Car Insurance - New Cars -Travel- Hybrid - Manuals - Contact - Schools - Wiring-- Tires Air Conditioning

Automotive Scan Tools

Scan Tools - Hand Tools - Trouble Codes - Check Engine Light - Brakes - Maintenance - Engine Repair-- Parts - Videos - Racing --Alarms

When a car problem occurs, the first step is to trouble shoot the related system. Then, perform simple tests that can lead you to the cause of the malfunction and the repairs needed to correct the problem. Sometimes You need the right test equipment. There are many different automotive SCAN TOOLS to choose from. Select one that meets your needs. More Scan Tools.

A scan tool with enhanced diagnostics can save your a lot of time and worry and allow you to do most of the troubleshooting from the drivers seat.

If you have a 1995 or newer vehicle, you have OBD II. But just because it's generic and the connector will plug into your car doesn't mean any scan tool will work on your car. If you have a 1998 or later European vehicle the scan tool will need a software upgrade. Another potential problem vehicles are Korean and the scan tool may need software upgrades to read them correctly.

There are several brands of scan tools, each with different capabilities and options. If you decide to purchase one for your use, shop around and get the one that will serve your needs.

The OTC Mind Reader for OBD I can be upgraded with an additional chip to read generic OBD II in domestic, Japanese and earlier European models (but not the newest Europeans). The Actron Scan Tool for OBD I can be updated to the same level of OBD II as the OTC Mind Reader with a plug-in cartridge (or you can buy an OBD II-only model). However the Mind Reader is an Excellant scan Tool and can be purchased online. Mind Reader OBD II Diagnostic Scan Tool Kit by OTC AutoXray produces a programmable scan tool. All AutoXray scan tools are designed to be upgraded electronically, from one-make OBD I coverage through the latest models. Other scan tools may be upgraded to enhanced status and beyond with new cartridges, CD-ROM or via the Internet.

As anyone with a household PC knows, "plug and play" doesn't always work, and OBD II scan tools can encounter compatibility problems. Some European and Korean cars don't always work when they're supposed to. How can you tell? Checking a scan tool manufacturer's Web site for updates is the way to keep your tool current.

It's six years since OBD II has come out and the early vehicles are now out of warranty. OBD II is a very complex system and I can only scratch the surface here, but hopefully it is a little less of a mystery now. Modern OBD II computers are a lot better than the early ones and are getting better every year. They can detect more problems and are much better storing the DTC's it finds.

The OTC/SPX Genysis carries the highest level of diagnostic information available to date. SPX creates the software that is used to operate the vehicles and has the most up to date software available. Although the most expensive of the bunch , you do get what you pay for . The Nemysis is the little brother to the Genysis and is less expensive but as suspected does not offer as many features.

The OTC Nemysis is the latest scan tool developed by OTC/SPX Corporation. Nemysis is an automotive scan tool designed and powered by Genysis technology. Nemysis covers early OBD I systems and all OBD II protocols, including the newly released Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol. Can protocol was introduced in 2003 model year vehicles and is the mandated protocol in all new vehicles by 2008. Matco Tools calls the nemysiss PRO SCAN PLUS .

MORE SCAN TOOLS :



GET AN ONLINE REPAIR MANUAL FOR YOUR CAR - Get instant access to your vehicles drive belt routing, wiring diagrams, trouble code information and other available updates and factory bulletins.

                       We have the symbol scanners your are looking for! Check out our touch screen monitor prices too! Based on what industry you are in, barcode scanners are used everyday for keeping inventory and also at the front end of your retail business.