How to Use an OBD2 Scanner [2025 Ultimate Guide]

As cars become smarter and more interconnected, the need for advanced diagnostic tools has never been greater. Welcome to the 2024 Ultimate Guide on how to use an OBD2 scanner. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast looking to troubleshoot your own vehicle, a professional mechanic seeking to refine your diagnostic processes, or simply a car owner wanting to understand the health of your engine, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the intricacies of OBD2 technology, from understanding its capabilities to interpreting its data.

What Are the Different OBD II Scanner Types?

There are several different types of OBD2 scanners, the main ones include the following:

Handheld OBD-II scanners: These scanners come with their own screen and connecting cable, and can be plugged directly into the car's OBD port. They are usually small, portable, and easy to use. Handheld scanners can display trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, and provide real-time data for monitoring engine performance and more.

XTOOL D7S

Wireless OBD-II scanners: Wireless scanners are plugged into the OBD port and connect to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth to display results. This type of scanner offers more convenience and flexibility because they do not require a physical connection to the OBD port.

XTOOL IP919 Pro

Smartphone Apps: This is a newer type of OBD2 scanner that works with the vehicle's OBD2 port to provide real-time performance data. These apps can display DTCs and what they mean, as well as other useful information such as fuel efficiency, engine temperature and RPMs.

XTOOL  A30

PC-Based Scanners: These are the most advanced type of OBD2 scanners and are usually used by professional mechanics. They require a computer and specialized software to connect to the vehicle's OBD2 port. PC-based scanners can provide more detailed information about vehicle performance than other types of scanners and can perform advanced diagnostic and programming tasks.

What Does an OBD2 Scanner Do?

The primary role of an OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics second generation) scanner is to help owners and technicians diagnose and solve automotive problems.

When a car's Electronic Control Module (ECM) detects a potential problem, it stores trouble codes that can be read by the OBD2 scanner to help identify the root cause of the problems.

How To Use An OBD2 Scanner? (Step-By-Step XTOOL D7S as an example)

• Locate the OBD2 port:
• First, you need to locate the vehicle's OBD2 port. This port is usually located under the dashboard on the driver's side, or sometimes it may be located near the center console.
• Connect the scanner:
• Plug the OBD2 scanner's connector into the vehicle's OBD2 port. Make sure the connection is secure to avoid loose or poor contact.
• Starting the Vehicle:
• To start the vehicle, the engine must be running to accomplish certain tasks. This is because some diagnostic tasks require power to the vehicle and the engine to be running.
• Open the application or reader device:
• Open the application that came with the OBD2 scanner or just open the scanner device in order to begin the diagnostic process.

• Navigate through the function screens:
• Follow the device or application interface prompts to browse and select the function you wish to perform. This may include reading trouble codes, clearing trouble codes, viewing live data streams, etc.

• Read Trouble Codes:
• If the vehicle is malfunctioning, the scanner will display error codes to help you identify the problem.

• Clearing Error Codes:
• Once the problem has been resolved, you can use the OBD2 scanner to clear the appropriate error codes.

• Real-time data monitoring:
• You can view real-time information about your engine, such as revolutions per minute, engine temperature, fuel consumption, and more.

• Customize car parameters (for some advanced scanners):
• Some OBD2 scanners allow you to adjust certain parameters of your car, such as rev limit or shift points, increase power (consumption will also increase), deactivate the auto start/stop system, automatically lock the doors at a certain speed, modify the lights, how to raise or lower the windows, etc.

Please note that different makes and models of OBD2 scanners may differ in terms of operating interface and steps, so you should read the tool's user manual carefully before using it. In addition, specialized diagnostic software and equipment may be required to obtain more detailed information for certain specific vehicle models or problems.

What Things Should You Consider While Buying an OBD2 Scanner?

There are several important factors that you should keep in mind when choosing an OBD2 scanner to purchase:

Compatibility: make sure that the OBD2 scanner you choose is compatible with your vehicle make, model and year. Most modern vehicles use the universal OBD2 standard, but it's a good idea to double-check.

Product features: Choose a scanner with features such as real-time data streaming, advanced diagnostic capabilities and a user-friendly interface. The more features it has, the better the diagnostics and troubleshooting will be.

Size and portability: OBD2 readers on the market vary greatly in size. Some have wireless connectivity, such as Bluetooth, and they are small and light enough to carry around. Others are slightly larger, such as the size of a multimeter or tablet.

Vehicle system support: Check which vehicle systems the scanner supports and to what extent in each case: engine, transmission, brakes, steering, charging, and more general electrical.

Connectivity: The connection between the OBD-II male connector and the primary reader can be wired or wireless, such as Bluetooth. Some Bluetooth-based devices provide enough “intelligence” within the connector so that the rest of the reader consists only of software running on a wirelessly connected computer or mobile device.

Price and budget: Choose the right scanner for your budget. The price tag usually reflects features, not necessarily quality. You can find reliable and robust devices that meet your automotive requirements in all price ranges.

Updates and support: Check to see if the scanner regularly updates its firmware to eliminate errors and support newer vehicles. If so, find out how (USB connection to computer, Bluetooth download from mobile device, direct Wi-Fi download, etc.) and how often updates are made.

Get the Best OBD2 Scanner From XTOOL

With its powerful performance, intelligent operation, flexible processing capability and thoughtful safety design, the XTOOL OBD2 scanner is the ideal choice for those who pursue high-quality automotive diagnostics. We offer a variety of OBD2 scanners for you to choose from. Contact us to recommend the most suitable OBD2 scanner for your needs.T