The Difference Between a Code Reader and a Scanner
An OBD (On Board Diagnostic) scanner is a device used to read data from the vehicle’s computer system. This data includes engine performance parameters such as speed, RPMs, fuel economy, emissions, etc. An OBD scanner plugs into the diagnostic port located under the steering wheel column. It reads the codes stored in the vehicle’s computer system and displays them on the screen.
A basic code reader is a tool used to read the codes stored in the vehicles’ computer systems. It plugs into the diagnostic port found under the steering wheel column and displays the codes on its LCD display.
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Last update on 2023-01-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The first thing you should know is that there are two types of scanners. One type is called an OBD scanner and the other one is called a basic code reader. An OBD scanner is used to diagnose problems with your vehicle’s engine while a basic code reader is used to read codes from your car’s computer system.
OBD stands for On Board Diagnostics. It refers to the diagnostic systems found inside most modern vehicles. This system allows the driver to monitor many different aspects of their vehicle’s performance.
For example, if the engine light comes on, the OBD system will tell you what part of the engine is malfunctioning. If the check engine light comes on, then the OBD system will let you know which sensors are giving off bad signals.
A basic code reader is similar to a handheld device that reads the codes stored on your vehicle’s computer system. However, this device is usually much smaller than an OBD scanner. You would use a basic code reader when you want to see the codes stored on your car’s computer system without having to open up the hood.
An OBD scanner is used for diagnosing problems with your vehicle’s engines. They are typically installed under the dashboard near the steering wheel. Most OBD scanners come equipped with a lot of features such as a digital display screen, a keypad, and a large LCD screen. Some even include a USB port so you can connect your laptop to it.
If you own a newer model vehicle, chances are that your car came equipped with an OBD II scanner. This scanner was designed to work with computers that were built into cars starting in 1996. Older models do not have these scanners. Instead, they have a basic code reader.
A basic code scanner is a small handheld device that plugs into your car’s computer system via a cigarette lighter socket. It is often used to read codes stored on your car’s computer system. Many people think of them as a tool for reading the codes stored on your automobile’s computer system. However some basic code readers are capable of reading data from multiple sources including the OBD II scanner.
In addition to reading codes, a basic code reader can also be used to perform several functions. For example, it can show you how fast your vehicle is going, how far you’ve traveled, and how much gas you’ve put in the tank. In fact, some basic code readers can even help you find out where your car has been parked.
