Whether you are a full time mechanic, or just a hobbyist, keeping track of all the different OBD-II codes for various vehicles is a nearly impossible task, and while not everyone wants to keep their ...

Get the read on your car issues with an OBD-II code reader. I tried out some of the top brands on the market to find the best one for your needs.

Tested: Best OBD-II Scanners for 2025 Did your vehicle's check-engine light just pop on? An OBD-II scanner can point you in the right direction—and potentially save you a bundle.

Plus, it has a more straightforward and standard user operation, meaning it now uses the same OBD-II port, connector, and diagnostic trouble codes for all car makes.

OBD-II Type Casting An OBD-II trouble code comes in two varieties. Type 1 codes trigger the check engine light immediately after a failure is detected.

Typically, inexperienced counter personnel use a scanner, or code reader, to pull an OBD-II trouble code from a customer’s car; off-handed repair advice is then communicated in an effort to ...

OBD-II scanners are designed to read your onboard diagnostic system. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) indicate an issue—but it's crucial to recognize that the scanner is just the starting point ...

What Are Trouble Codes? Diagnostic trouble codes help narrow down and pinpoint specific areas and elements that could cause the CEL to illuminate. Never ignore the CEL. Most codes have to do with ...

When a Check Engine light is illuminated, these handheld devices connect to the OBD-II port and simply record and display any trouble code that the vehicle is sending.