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Scanner in Use
Now we'll talk a little bit about how a Scan Tool can be used. First I must introduce
what I think is the best Generic Diagnostic Scan Tool available at the present time.
That Scan Tool would be the Escan by Automotive Test Solutions.
Escan is a PC Based Scan tool which harnesses the power of a Laptop computer to
provide you with a wide array of information at your fingertips. It's unique format
is designed to provide the information you need in a very user friendly way. Most
of this site will be dedicated to describing the Escan tool and how to use it effectively
to repair your vehicle.
Let's start with some things you can do with the Escan.
Check Engine Light Diagnostics.
One of the most often reasons why someone would want to hook up a Diagnostic Scan
Tool. Don't be one of the many people who have no idea what to do when this light
comes on. Hooking up the Escan Scan Tool in this case would give you a Diagnostic
Trouble Code and possibly a Freeze Frame of Data. Using this information can lead
you to the area, that is failing in your vehicle, that needs attention.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes
Sensor Graphing
Your Vehicle contains a number of Sensors. These sensors are displayed a PID'S.
An Example of a sensor would be an OXYGEN SENSOR. PID'S can also be data that
is used by your vehicles computer such as FUEL TRIM for example. All of these sensors
and data can be displayed on Graphs. These Graphs are very usefull in displaying
and interpreting the data sent by the Vehicles Computer. Escan shines over most
other Generic Scan Tools with it's Superior Graphing.
Sensor Graphing
Monitors
Your cars computer runs what are called Diagnostic Monitors. These Monitors make
sure that your vehicles emmision systems are working properly. When the conditions
are correct your vehicles computer will run tests and collect data to make sure
your car doesn't turn into a gross emmision polluter. If these tests fail usually
your vehicle will notify you by a check engine light and a trouble code. Many states
need to see if these monitors are set to PASS and COMPLETE in order to pass
emmisions. Knowing if these are set can save you a hassle when you get your vehicle
tested for emmisions.
Monitors
Mode6
Mode6 data is data that is stored in a cars pcm. This data is results from tests
done by the pcm in order to pass/fail the diagnostic monitors. Sometimes this data
is useful othertimes not. Escan contains one of the best translaters of mode6 data
in a scan tool.
Mode6
Fuel Trim Diagnostics
Escan contains a special charting tool which graphs fuel trim under various operating
ranges. This tool is very useful as it gives you a window into the vehicles
pcm that helps you diagnose problems with the vehicles fuel system. With a
short test drive you can quickly determine the condition of the system and rule
it in or out as being in good working order.
Fuel Trim Diagnostics
Volumetric Efficiency
Your vehicles engine is basically an air pump by design. Volumetric Efficiency can
be used to determine if your vehicles pcm is reading if the engine is pumping the
correct amount of air. Escan has a unique chart /graph tool that allows you to determine
if this volumetric efficiency is normal for that engine size.
Volumetric Efficiency
Catalyst Efficiency
We all want cleaner air. And the goal of OBD2 is for clean emmissions. Escan
contains a special test that can be used to determine if your catalytic converters
are doing their jobs.
Catalyst Efficiency
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