Are all OBD code readers the same?
No two code readers are the same. While feature sets depend largely on price, any code reader can perform the basic task of reading, displaying, clearing codes, and resetting the check engine light in a car. More advanced code readers can do the following: Display trouble code names.
Are code readers vehicle specific?
Vehicle Specific Scanner These are vehicle specific and sometimes model specific. They are available in many forms, handheld devices, software and cable or as an app for your phone.
What is the best fault code reader to buy?
The best OBD2 scanners you can buy today
- Innova CarScan Pro 5210. The best OBD 2 scanner overall puts more car data at your fingertips.
- Ancel BD310. The best OBD2 that does double duty.
- Autel AutoLink AL539.
- ThinkOBD 100.
- Jethax OBD2 Scanner.
- Topdon ArtiLink 500.
- ThinkDriver Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner.
- SeekOne SK860.
Are code readers worth it?
An engine code reader/scanner is worth buying if you’re a fairly competent amateur mechanic who understands how an engine works. But it’s not a silver bullet that will always tell you exactly what’s wrong.
Can a generic OBD reader be used on a 1996 Volvo?
Unfortunately, you cannot use a generic code reader on any of these OBD-I cars: you have to manually extract the codes from the systems as noted below. 1996+ cars have the entirely different OBD-II system which requires a computerized code scanner to read codes through a special data link.
Do you need special scan tool to read Volvo diagnostic codes?
You do not need a special scan tool to read codes. As electronic systems were added to more Volvo models, more socket options and even more diagnostic connectors were added.
Can a check engine light be read on a Volvo?
Codes that trigger the check engine light can be read with a generic OBD2 scanner . Codes stored in all other modules such as ABS, Airbag/SRS, Transmission, Central Electronic Module (CEM) require a Volvo scanner. We used iCarsoft for the Volvo scanner in this guide, but any Volvo scanner can be used.
Where are the diagnostic codes on a Volvo 940?
940 cars have two boxes: “A” and “B”; the former is used for engine diagnostics and ABS; the latter for SRS and cruise control. If fault codes related to the emission system are registered, the “Check Engine” lamp on the instrument panel is lit. The test cable is mounted to the side of A. There are three OBD diagnostic test modes (DTM): DTM 1.