When vehicle makers began using electronics to control certain functions, it led to vehicles being equipped with on-board diagnostic (OBD) systems to monitor and diagnose problems. Computer-controlled systems are found on every vehicle built today. 

Figure 1. With the use of a scan tool, accessing various computer-controlled systems is possible.

Figure 2. One example of an OEM scan tool is the GM Tech II shown here.

Figure 3. One example of an aftermarket scan tool is the Snap-on scan tool shown here.

With the implementation of OBDII in 1994, the number of systems capable of being accessed using a scan tool has increased. At the same time, the amount of diagnostic information available to technicians has also increased. Because of this, it has become more important for technicians to have equipment capable of accessing this information and thus, the advancement of the handheld scan tool.

The need for scan tools

With technological development in today's vehicles, the handheld scan tool has become a necessary tool for proper diagnosis and repair. A scan tool may be required after simply disconnecting and reconnecting the battery on some vehicles. Some primary functions of a scan tool include accessing and/or clearing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), monitoring and/or activating system parts, uploading information, and recording data. A scan tool gives a technician the ability to communicate with computer-controlled systems, including the anti-lock brake system (ABS) and passive restraint system (see Figure 1).

Standards

To ensure vehicle and equipment compatibility for such things as the connector and com-munication procedures, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) developed standard requirements for vehicle, equipment, and toolmakers. These standards included scan tool operation. Standard emission diagnostic regulations, known as OBDII, were implemented on January 1, 1996. Compliance to the OBDII regulations requires standard 16-pin data link connectors (DLC), communication protocols for scan tools, and DTCs.

There are three OBDII communications protocols being used by vehicle makers. When using a scan tool, be sure it works with the protocol of the vehicle. Typically, the three scan tool protocols and the vehicles they support are:

•SAE J1850VPW (Variable Pulse Width Modulation) (GM).

•SAE J1850PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) (Ford).

•ISO 9141 (Chrysler group, most European, most Asian).

On vehicles built since January 1, 1996, scan tools link to a vehicle diagnostic system through a universal connection port, which is typically located just below the instrument panel on the driver side. As a requirement of OBDII, the DLC must be located within 91 cm (36") of the steering wheel, and not require any tools to access. Some DLCs may be covered to protect the pins against damage. Depending on the scan tool being used, hooking up to the DLC may provide the necessary power for the scan tool to operate. Some vehicles may have connectors in other locations in addition to the required DLC under the instrument panel.

Selecting a scan tool

Scan tools can be purchased either from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or an aftermarket supplier.

OEM scan tools (see Figure 2) include, but are not limited to: Tech II (GM), DRB III (DaimlerChrysler), STAR (Ford), CONSULT (Nissan) and VAG 1551 (VW, Audi).

Aftermarket scan tools (see Figure 3) include, but are not limited to: Sunpro, Snap-on, OTC, Pro Link 9000, Master Tec and Palm™ Handheld. Some diagnostic tool providers offer diagnostic software for use with the Palm handheld Personal Digital Assistant.

Scan tool operations, capabilities, and display configurations will vary (see Figure 4). Because all scan tools are different, it is very important to have the user's manual for the tool that you will be using.

To support changes in vehicle technology some scan tools have the capability of being upgraded.

When using scan tools and reading repair manuals there may be acronyms used. These acronyms have been developed by the automotive industry and standardized by the SAE (document number J1930). Understanding the meaning of common acronyms will help the technician with quick and complete understanding of electronic information.

Scan tool procedure

When accessing information from a vehicle computer using a scan tool:

1. Connect the scan tool to the diagnostic connector.

2. Retrieve the DTCs.

3. Record the data that is contained within the vehicle computer. This will help the technician retain the DTC information in the event the data gets lost or erased from the computer memory.