Accessing Your Car’s OBD-II Codes in San Jose

It can be discouraging if your check engine light comes on. You know that it means that your car is having an issue. You’ve probably heard that when the light is triggered, there is a code produced that lets your mechanic identify the potential problem. Bring your car into Fast Lane European, and we can run a diagnostic check and get your car fixed to turn the troublesome light off and get you back on your way quickly and efficiently.

WHAT IS AN OBD-II CODE

Diagnostic Trouble Codes, also known as DTC’s, are used my vehicle manufactures to diagnose issues. The OBD-II, which is in light-duty vehicles, is able to identify and communicate to the technician what problem your vehicle is having.

There are hundreds of codes that can be generated. Each code provides information about a specific issue. By allowing your mechanic to run an OBD code reader, they can retrieve the code and narrow down the problem using an OBD-II code chart.

RUNNING A SCAN YOURSELF

You can run a scan tool yourself if you have an OBD code reader. These can be purchased from auto supply stores. By running your own scan, you can sometimes find easy fixes, such as a loose gas cap. But for other issues, you will need to have your car serviced by a certified mechanic.

STANDARDIZED SYSTEM

The OBD-II is a standardized tool that has made diagnostics much simpler. Older car manufacturers used to have their own scanning system, and this made things difficult for mechanics. They would have to buy expensive tools for each brand and then pay for regular software updates. In the early 1990s, California was the first state that required that manufacturers use the standardized system.

MODES OF OPERATION

The OBD-II system has 10 modes of operation, but not all vehicle manufacturers support them all. If you are interested in running your own scan, the most important modes are 1 through 4.

Mode 1: This mode allows you to have access to live powertrain data.

Mode 2: Mode 2 shows you a snapshot of the code that was generated when the code was created.

Mode 3: The purpose of this mode is so that you can have access to all of the codes that are stored in the computer.

Mode 4: This mode allows you to erase all stored codes.

USING THE SCAN TOOL

When purchasing a scan tool, you will have many code readers to choose from. Don’t purchase something outrageous, because you will probably never use all of the additional features.

Using the tool is very easy. There is a 16-pin connector that is located under the dash on the driver’s side. This is where you will connect your new tool.

1. Connect the 16-pin connector to your scan tool.
2. Start your vehicle.
3. Turn on the scan tool, if it doesn’t do so itself.
4. Follow the instructions to find the code.

Once you find your code, you can perform an internet search to find out what the code means. If it is an easy fix, and you know that you have fixed it correctly, you can erase the code. If the code indicates that there is a problem that you are not able to take care of, do not erase the code. Instead, take it to a trusted garage for help.

WE OFFER DEALERSHIP QUALITY SERVICE

If you are dealing with OBD-II code problems, we can help. Do not erase the codes before we take care of the problem for you. There isn’t any reason that you have to take your car to a dealership to have it serviced. We offer dealership quality service without the high costs. We also have the equipment that is needed to work on your vehicle properly.

FREE SECOND OPINION

We offer free second opinions. Bring in the recommendation that you received from another company, and we can perform a visual inspection to either confirm or disagree with their recommendation. This is for visual inspections only.

CONTACT US TODAY

Here at Fast Lane European, we service Volvos, Minis, and BMWs. We are located at 3585 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA. Stop by and see us today or call to schedule your appointment at 408-985-1000.