Comment Re:Their goal... (Score 1) 748
With OnBoard Diagnostic (OBD) v I or II, you need a computerized scan-tool or computer to read the fault codes that the ECU will produce.
The OBD standard also mandates that there only be one fault indicator, the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp), so that you cant tell the difference between an emissions failure and an engine/accessory failure. That way you cant just let an emissions problem go, you have to rush your car in to a mechanic because you think its gonna die!
Mechanics generally sap you for 60-70 bucks to read the fault codes, so it pays to spend 100 or 150 on a OBD scanner for your laptop or palm, so you can figure out if you need to fix the prob, or if it actually is a problem.
The OBD standard also mandates that there only be one fault indicator, the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp), so that you cant tell the difference between an emissions failure and an engine/accessory failure. That way you cant just let an emissions problem go, you have to rush your car in to a mechanic because you think its gonna die!
Mechanics generally sap you for 60-70 bucks to read the fault codes, so it pays to spend 100 or 150 on a OBD scanner for your laptop or palm, so you can figure out if you need to fix the prob, or if it actually is a problem.
