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What is OBD?
OBD stands for On-Board Diagnostics. In the early 1970s the U.S. adopted The
Clean Air Act, which mandated that vehicle manufacturers develop more efficient,
lower emission vehicles. This led to the development of the first
computer-controlled automotive OBD. Every time the OBD system identifies an
emissions-related problem, your Check Engine Light is illuminated so you can
have the problem fixed. All automobiles built after 1996 are equipped with a
later standard known as “OBD II.” Your SMART SCAN car diagnostic tool device
taps into this OBD II system to help you identify the source of “check engine”
problems.
What is OBD II?
Developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), OBD II is a standard
system for all vehicle manufacturers to regulate vehicle emissions. Every
vehicle produced in the US that is 1996 and later must be equipped with OBD II.
Why is OBD II important?
Vehicles are the single largest source of harmful emissions. Studies show that
over 50% of late model vehicle emissions are a result of improper maintenance or
emissions-related malfunctions. OBD II is a standard designed to ensure that a
vehicle will operate as cleanly and efficiently as possible throughout its
lifespan.
Where is my OBD II port?
You’ll find the OBD II connector within three feet of the driver’s seat,
accessible without the use of any tools. Typically this connector is found under
the dash or near the center console. Check here to see where your port is
located.
Can I damage my vehicle’s computer with SMART SCAN?
No, SMART SCAN merely reports what problems your vehicle's computer has stored
and then determines the urgency of the problem.
My tool won’t power on once I plug it in – what’s
wrong?
A blown fuse on the vehicle is the most common cause of the tool not powering
on.
Once I have the diagnostic trouble code, what should
I do?
Before taking your car in for repair, visit and register at our online
Diagnostic Trouble Code information database. You can look up the code and
review probable causes, symptoms you may experience, and components commonly
involved. After your session, we’ll send you a diagnostic summary report in your
email.
My Car is older than 1996 – will the Engine Light
Urgency Indicator work?
Possibly. A few car models were OBD-II compliant prior to 1995. Look under the
hood for the words “OBD II” on the emissions label near the radiator or on the
underside of the hood.
Why is there a USB port on My Urgency Indicator?
Because diagnostic codes and emissions regulations may change in the future, you
may wish to update your SMART SCAN system. The mini-USB port on your Urgency
Indicator allows us to help you maintain an up-to-date product via internet
updates posted on our website. If there is an update released, we will email all
registered users.
My Urgency Indicator shows the Diagnostic Trouble
Code but does not point to an Urgency Level – what’s wrong?
Your Urgency Indicator probably pulled a Diagnostic Trouble Code that is
specific to your vehicle and not covered by the tool. In this case, contact our
ASE-certified technicians, for assistance: (1-800-544-6986)
Where is my product’s serial number?
Inside the battery compartment.
Does the Urgency Indicator require batteries?
When your Urgency Indicator is plugged in to your vehicle, it can be used
without batteries. Batteries allow you to view Diagnostic Trouble Codes when the
tool is not plugged in to your vehicle.
How can I turn off my check engine light?
Once the problem is fixed, the Check Engine Light will turn off by itself.
Automotive diagnostic tools can erase the Diagnostic Trouble Code and
temporarily turn the Check Engine light off. However, if the problem is not
fixed then the Check Engine Light will turn back on after the engine goes
through its self tests.
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