About This Book

From hand-held, dedicated units to software that turns PCs and Palm Pilots into powerful diagnostic scanners, auto enthusiasts today have a variety of methods available to make use of on-board diagnostic systems. And not only can they be used to diagnose operational faults, they can be used as low-budget data acquisition systems and dynamometers, so you can maximize your vehicle's performance.

Beginning with why scanners are needed to work effectively on modern cars, this book teaches you how to choose the right scanner for your application, how to use the tool, and what each code means. "How To Use Automotive Diagnostic Scanners" is illustrated with photos and diagrams to help you understand OBD-I and OBD-II systems (including CAN) and the scanners that read the information they record. Also included is a comprehensive list of codes and what they mean. From catalytic converters and O2 sensors to emissions and automotive detective work, this is the complete reference for keeping your vehicle EPA-compliant and on the road!

Table of Contents

Preface

Chapter 1 - On Board Diagnostics, a Brief History

Chapter 2 - OBD-II – the On-Board Emissions Monitor Transitions: From OBD-I to OBD-II
Chapter 3 - Catalytic Converters, Oxygen Sensors and Electronic Fuel Delivery

Chapter 4 - Professional Scanners & Code Readers
Chapter 5 - Scan Tools
Chapter 6 - Automotive Detective Work
Chapter 7 - Scanner Operation
Appendix:

• Domestic OBD-I and OBD-II Applications

• OBD-I Codes

• OEM Contact Info for OBD-II

• OBD-II Automotive Terms

• OBD-II Acronyms

• DLC Non-standard Locations

• Diagnostic Trouble Codes

About The Author

Tracy Martin writes for Motorcycle Consumer News, RoadBike, Friction Zone, PowerSports, and Dealer News magazines. Author of three books, Tracy co-authored the MSF’s Guide to Motorcycling Excellence, Second Edition. Published by Motorbooks International, Tracy’s latest book, Motorcycle Electrical Systems: Troubleshooting and Repair, is available at book sellers everywhere. His first book, How to Diagnose and Repair Automotive Electrical Systems, is also available at book stores. In addition to writing, Tracy teaches the Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic with Lee Parks, author of Total Control. Tracy has presented riding skills and motorcycle suspension seminars across the United States and recently in England and the Russian Federation.