In recent years, access to your car’s electronics has become widespread. It’s easy for anyone to use a car diagnostic scanner on their own and run a scan to check for any problematic parts.
Running a diagnosis can be useful in many situations, whether during your everyday driving or more rarely.
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Occasional uses of the diagnostic tool
Used car purchase: key points to check
Buying a used car can be stressful—there’s a lot of money at stake. Whether it’s a €1,000 car or a €10,000 car, surprises can happen. You need to be thorough before signing the check.
Many people trust dealers who sell used cars. But even then, it’s important to inspect several points. Some are visible, like tires, while others require a multibrand diagnostic scanner to uncover.
Technical inspection and re-inspection: what you need to know
The technical inspection is mandatory every two years after a car’s fourth year. Costs rise as emission standards tighten and more check points are added.
A re-inspection is required if your car fails the technical inspection. It must be completed within two months. You can easily check the faults—using a diagnostic scanner—before returning for re-inspection.
Vehicle VIN number: what is it and where to find it?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is 17 characters long and unique to each vehicle.
The VIN number is required for vehicle registration. It’s usually visible on the windshield or on the manufacturer’s plate inside the driver’s door. It’s also stored in the car’s ECU, making it tamper-proof. To read it, you’ll need a diagnostic scanner.
Warning lights readable by an OBD reader
Check-engine light on? How to turn off the emission warning?
Dashboard warning lights come in various shapes and colors, but they’re standardized—so you’ll see the same symbols on all vehicles.
The orange check-engine light is usually easy to read with a diagnostic tool. It typically indicates an emissions-related fault.
The severity is shown by the light’s color: a fixed red light means stop immediately to avoid damage.
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Motorhome engine maintenance: the complete guide
Motorhomes are often built on van chassis with a living compartment added—bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette, etc.
Popular models include the Fiat Ducato, Citroën, and Mercedes variants. Their engines are the same as the commercial versions, so motorhome engine maintenance follows the same steps—and the same diagnostic scanner works for both.