By buying an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) 2 code scanner, you make an investment. Therefore, before making this kind of investment, it is vital to do some homework. For OBD 2 scan tools, it means finding out about the features that will help make your work easier. It also implies finding a distributor you can trust with the purchase.

If you are looking for an OBD 2 scanner then probably you have an idea of how you will use it. Before deciding to buy, consider what features will help you do your work efficiently. Here are some features to look for to get the best OBD 2 scanners.

Ability to Print

Having the information saves on the scanner is helpful. However, being able to print the information is necessary as well. Holding a printout in your hand when working on your car can be handy in a lot of situations. Besides, it is good to be able to hand a client a printout from the scanner so they can have an idea of what is going on.

Record and Playback Information

When using these scanners, you are dealing with what is necessary to fix your car. More so if you are using the OBD 2 scanner for the same vehicle repeatedly, the ability to record the vehicle information and play it back is very valuable.

Graph Engine Data

Graphs are there to help organize data and make it easier to decipher. OBD 2 scan tools with graphs data for you can help in sorting the information. This way you can more quickly solve the problems at hand.

Controller Area Network (CAN) Protocol

This protocol is the mandated protocol for all new vehicles since 2008. Thus, you should make sure your OBD 2 scanners include this code or else you will put limits on the cars you work on.

LCD Screen Display

Since you will be probably staring at the OBD 2 all day, it is essential to have a clear, large LCD screen display. Squinting to see the values on tiny screens can strain your eyes over a long period.

Multilingual

Higher end OBD 2 scanner generally offer multilingual function. This comes in handy if you speak other languages and also if you plan on hiring workers who do not speak English.

When you have found the OBD 2 scanner with the features you need, you should carefully look for a distributor from whom to buy. You do not want to be duped so ensure the distributor offer money-back guarantee, is certified and has plainly stated policies.

Buying an OBD 2 code scanner should not be a split decision. Choosing the right one involves careful consideration. After research and making a selection, you will be sure you are making a worthwhile investment.

Just like with the other machines, vehicles, are supposed to be serviced regularly. This is mainly done to improve their performance and increase the efficiency. However, some motorists consider this job as very tedious. Some of them might not even pay attention toward servicing. In fact, they only realize its relevance when they fail to reach their destination due to a breakdown. This might sound unusual and surprising, but it is very common for those drivers who tend to ignore or forget servicing their vehicles.

Some believe that servicing a car involves just checking the engine’s oil level, tire pressure, filing fuel and regular cleaning. However, this is an activity that is not restricted to these basic items. It is a process that involves checking up the condition of the engine, the braking system gearbox, and clutch among others. This is mainly done after driving for a specified number of kilometres. The following are some of the crucial factors that you need to consider before servicing your car.

Types or nature of services

This is something that should always be checked before visiting the garage. You will find out that some centers are specialized in offering specific services. For instance, some focus mainly on the mid-sized cars. The technicians might also be accredited to conduct certain series. If you own a Ferrari, then you should pick a mechanic who has been accredited to offer services by that company.

Infrastructure of the garage or service station

You should remember that car service centers are very different. It is therefore advisable to choose a center that has all the latest facilities or computerized equipment that is used in the modern days. For instance, a good service station should have separate areas for all the essential services. These include washing of vehicles, cleaning, painting, servicing, and inspection. They should also have a waiting area for their clients. Moreover, an approved or licensed garage should display its accreditation’s certificate that has been issued by the manufacturer.

Charges

This involves getting an accurate estimate of a vehicle before taking it for servicing. Most of the authorized garages have fixed prices for the different tasks ranging from replacement of damaged parts or changing the engine oil. Replacement of parts should be done using genuine products from the manufacturer. The use of the internet can help you in determining the average cost f different services. You will always get the true value of the money paid once a reputable mechanic services your vehicle.