Choosing Automotive Diagnostic Software - For Repairs And Maintenance
Automotive Software is a term used to describe any software which interfaces with your vehicle's engine control computer (ECU) to provide real-time diagnostics and troubleshooting data. This can be done by using either a laptop or PDA with the proper automotive diagnostic software. Some auto software can reset the check engine light (CEL) in the dash, pull trouble codes stored in the ECU, and narrow down potential causes for problems. It can also be a useful tool for automotive maintenance and tuning.
Almost all new American vehicles now include an ECU, also called an engine control module (ECM). The ECU/ECM monitors various sensors located throughout the engine, fuel, and exhaust systems. In a fuel-injected engine, sensors feed the ECU or ECM information that the computer uses to make constant minor adjustments to fuel and air mixture. When the ECU detects a problem it cannot fix, it activates the CEL and stores a trouble code for later retrieval that points the mechanic toward possible problems.
Automotive Software is generally used with the ignition key in the accessory position, but the engine can also be running for advanced troubleshooting. This makes diagnostics software particularly useful for logging real-time data. Voltage readouts, oxygen sensor testing, and monitoring of various systems are all included functions of diagnostic automotive software.
It is important to note that there are three types of OBD-II compliant systems in modern vehicles. Diagnostic automotive software that can read all three flavors of OBD-II is known as "universal" auto diagnostics software. This software will be more flexible for multi-car families or for future vehicles than software designed to read just one of the three protocols. Before purchasing any automotive software, check to see what kind of OBD-II system your vehicle has. For those unwilling or unable to do their own mechanical work, automotive software can still keep you informed of any potential problems your vehicle might be having. It can also help you to avoid needless repairs when taking the car to a less than honest mechanic. By being more informed about your car's condition you have a lesser chance of being ripped off. There are many companies that sell automotive software, and prices vary as much as any other type of software or product. Digimoto sells for less than 200 dollars and can read all three OBD-II protocols. It also has a slick interface and a wireless connectivity option as well.
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