Scan Tools & Bi-Directional Controls: questions & answers
Choosing and using professional scan tools: bi-directional tests, live data, service resets, coding and adaptations.
Choosing a Scan Tool
- What is the difference between a code reader and a professional scan tool?
- Which features matter most when buying a scan tool for a small repair shop?
- Do I need a tablet-style scan tool or will a handheld do?
- Is a Bluetooth OBD-II dongle with a phone app good enough for professional work?
- How much scan tool do I need as a serious DIYer?
- What does "all systems" mean on a scan tool box?
Service Resets & Special Functions
- What is battery registration and when do I need a scan tool for it?
- How do I retract an electronic parking brake to change rear pads?
- What is a steering angle sensor reset and when is it required?
- Do I need a scan tool to reset the oil life monitor?
- What is a throttle body relearn and why is it needed after cleaning?
- What does injector coding mean on a diesel?
Bi-Directional Controls & Active Tests
- What is a bi-directional scan tool?
- Why won't my scan tool run an active test even though it supports the vehicle?
- Can I bleed ABS brakes without a bi-directional scan tool?
- How do I use active tests to tell a bad component from a bad wire?
- Are bi-directional controls safe to use on a running engine?
- What is a cylinder contribution or power balance test on a scan tool?