For car owners and auto enthusiasts alike, understanding the health of your vehicle is paramount. An Autel OBD2 scanner is an invaluable tool for diagnosing car problems, allowing you to identify issues quickly and efficiently. If you’re wondering how to use an Autel OBD2 scanner, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can confidently use your scanner to understand your vehicle’s condition.
Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY beginner, Autel scanners are designed to be user-friendly and provide crucial insights into your car’s systems. From handheld devices to more advanced Bluetooth flatbed scanners, Autel offers a range of options to suit various needs and vehicle types. These scanners support OBD I and OBD II protocols and connect via wired, Bluetooth, or WiFi to read diagnostic trouble codes generated by your car’s computer.
This guide focuses on providing clear, actionable steps on how to use an Autel OBD2 scanner effectively. Let’s dive into the process.
Step 1: Finding Your Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC)
The first step in using your Autel OBD2 scanner is locating the Diagnostic Link Connector, or DLC. For vehicles manufactured after 1996, this port is standardized as an OBD2 port.
Typically, you can find the DLC inside your car’s cabin on the driver’s side. Look under the steering column, often on the lower left side of the instrument panel. It’s usually located beneath the dashboard and may be covered by a small door or bezel.
If you are having trouble locating the OBD2 port, your vehicle’s user manual is your best resource. It will provide the exact location of the DLC for your specific car model. Knowing where to find this port is essential before you can proceed with connecting your Autel OBD2 scanner.
Step 2: Connecting Your Autel OBD2 Scanner to the DLC
Once you have located the DLC, ensure your vehicle’s ignition is turned off before proceeding with the connection.
Now, take your Autel OBD2 scanner and the appropriate connector cable if it’s a wired device. Plug the OBD2 connector end of the cable firmly into the diagnostic link connector in your car. If you are using a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, simply plug the scanner directly into the OBD II port.
After physically connecting the scanner, it’s crucial to consult your Autel scanner’s instruction manual. Some scanners require the car to be in the “ON” position (ignition turned on, engine off) or in “idle” mode after connecting to the DLC to establish communication. Following the correct procedure is vital to avoid any potential damage to your scanning tool or your vehicle’s system.
Once connected and in the correct vehicle mode, your Autel scanner will attempt to communicate with your car’s computer system. Confirm a successful connection by observing the scanner’s screen for a connection message or indicator related to your OBD2 system.
Step 3: Entering Vehicle Information – VIN
To accurately diagnose your vehicle, your Autel OBD2 scanner may require specific vehicle information. The most important piece of information is your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Depending on the Autel scanner model you are using, you might be prompted to enter the VIN before it can retrieve any OBD2 codes. The VIN is a unique identifier for your car and allows the scanner to access the correct diagnostic data.
Where to Find Your VIN:
The VIN is typically a 17-character code and can be found in several locations on your vehicle:
- Dashboard: Look at the base of the windshield on the driver’s side. The VIN is usually visible from outside the car.
- Driver’s Side Doorjamb: Open the driver’s side door and check the sticker on the doorjamb.
- Vehicle Registration and Insurance Documents: Your VIN is also printed on your car’s registration and insurance documents.
In addition to the VIN, some Autel scanners might also request other details such as the engine type or vehicle model year for more precise diagnostics. Enter all requested information accurately into your scanner.
Step 4: Navigating the Scanner Menu to Access OBD Codes
With your Autel OBD2 scanner connected and vehicle information entered, you can now navigate the scanner’s menu to access OBD codes. Typically, scanners have a menu-driven interface that is relatively straightforward to use.
Look for options on the main menu screen that relate to diagnostics, code reading, or system scanning. You will likely find options to select different vehicle systems such as engine, transmission, ABS, and more.
Once you select a system, the Autel scanner will begin scanning for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). The scanner will then display any active and pending codes it detects.
Active vs. Pending Codes:
- Active Codes: These codes indicate current problems that are triggering the check engine light or other warning lights. They represent issues that the car’s computer has identified as requiring immediate attention.
- Pending Codes: Pending codes, sometimes called intermittent codes, suggest potential problems that the car’s computer has detected but are not yet severe enough to trigger the check engine light. These codes can become active if the issue persists or worsens.
Note that the display and menu options can vary between different Autel scanner models. Some scanners may directly show only the detected DTCs, while others allow you to choose specific OBD2 codes to view or systems to scan.
Step 5: Identifying and Understanding OBD Codes
After the Autel scanner displays the OBD codes, the next crucial step is to understand what these codes mean. OBD codes are standardized codes that provide information about the nature and location of a problem within your vehicle.
Each OBD fault code follows a specific format: it begins with a letter followed by four digits.
Decoding the First Letter:
The first letter of the DTC indicates the vehicle system where the problem is located:
- P (Powertrain): Relates to issues within the engine, transmission, fuel system, ignition system, and emissions control. This is the most common category of OBD codes.
- B (Body): Indicates problems with body-related systems such as airbags, power windows, power seats, and seatbelts.
- C (Chassis): Signals issues with chassis systems including the axle, braking system (including ABS – Anti-lock Braking System), and suspension.
- U (Network/Undefined): Refers to communication issues within the vehicle’s computer network or problems that do not fall into the P, B, or C categories.
Decoding the Numbers:
The four digits following the letter provide more specific information about the problem:
- First Number (after the letter): Indicates whether the code is generic (0) or manufacturer-specific (1). Generic codes are standardized across all manufacturers, while manufacturer-specific codes are unique to a particular car brand.
- Second Number: Refers to a specific vehicle subsystem.
- Last Two Digits: Provide the most precise description of the fault within that subsystem.
It is important to record the displayed OBD code. Write down the complete code, including the letter and all five digits. After noting the code, turn off your vehicle and carefully disconnect the Autel OBD II scanning tool.
Many Autel scanners offer the ability to transfer the recorded OBD codes to a computer via USB or Bluetooth. This allows for easier research and documentation of the diagnostic results.
If you encounter difficulties in interpreting the live data or understanding the OBD codes from your scanner, it’s always advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for professional assistance.
Step 6: Trouble Code Diagnosis and Repair
An Autel OBD scanner is excellent at telling you what is wrong with your car by providing the fault codes. However, it does not tell you how to fix the problem. The OBD code is a starting point for further diagnosis.
Once you have the OBD code, you need to investigate further to determine the root cause of the issue. You can research the specific OBD code online to understand potential causes and common fixes. There are many online resources and databases that can provide detailed information about each code.
At this stage, you can decide whether to attempt a DIY repair or seek professional help. For simple issues, you might be able to resolve the problem yourself. However, for more complex problems, or if you are not comfortable working on your car, it is generally recommended to take your vehicle to a certified mechanic. Professional mechanics have the expertise and tools to accurately diagnose and repair vehicle issues, preventing potentially costly mistakes.
Step 7: Resetting the Check Engine Light
After you have addressed the problem indicated by the OBD code and completed the necessary repairs, the check engine light might remain illuminated on your dashboard. In many cases, the check engine light will turn off automatically after a period of driving if the issue is resolved.
However, you can also use your Autel OBD2 scanner to manually reset the check engine light immediately.
To do this, navigate to the main menu of your Autel scanner and look for an option such as “Reset Codes,” “Clear Codes,” or “Check Engine Light Reset.” Select this option and follow the on-screen prompts. Typically, you will need to confirm that you want to reset the codes.
After initiating the reset, give the scanner a few seconds or minutes to process the request. Once completed, the check engine light should turn off.
Important Note: Resetting the check engine light without fixing the underlying problem is only a temporary solution. If the original issue persists, the check engine light will illuminate again after a short period. It’s crucial to address the root cause of the problem rather than just masking the symptom by resetting the light.
Common Features of Autel Scanners
Autel scanners come equipped with a range of features beyond just reading and clearing codes. Common functionalities include:
- Read/Clear Codes: As discussed, this is the fundamental function to read diagnostic trouble codes and clear them after repairs.
- Live Data Stream: Allows you to view real-time data from various vehicle sensors and systems, providing valuable insights into engine performance and sensor readings.
- I/M Readiness Status: Checks the status of emission-related systems to ensure your vehicle is ready for emissions testing.
- Freeze Frame Data: Captures a snapshot of sensor data at the moment a fault code is triggered, helping to diagnose intermittent issues.
- O2 Sensor Test: Tests the functionality of oxygen sensors, which are crucial for emissions control and fuel efficiency.
- On-Board Monitor Test: Checks the on-board diagnostic monitoring systems of the vehicle.
- Component Testing: Some advanced Autel scanners offer component testing capabilities to activate and test specific vehicle components.
- Vehicle Information: Displays essential vehicle information such as VIN, CID (Calibration Identification), and CVN (Calibration Verification Number).
Higher-end Autel scanners often include advanced special functions such as:
- Oil Reset: Resets the oil life reminder after an oil change.
- EPB (Electronic Parking Brake) Service: Assists with servicing electronic parking brake systems.
- SAS (Steering Angle Sensor) Calibration: Calibrates the steering angle sensor after alignment or steering system repairs.
- BMS (Battery Management System) Reset: Resets the battery management system after battery replacement.
- ABS Brake Bleeding: Automated bleeding of ABS brake systems.
- DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Regeneration: Initiates DPF regeneration to clean diesel particulate filters.
- Active Test / Bi-directional Control: Allows you to send commands to vehicle components to test their functionality.
- Battery Testing: Evaluates the health and condition of the vehicle’s battery.
By understanding how to use an Autel OBD2 scanner and its features, you can take a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance, diagnose problems effectively, and potentially save time and money on car repairs.
