Product Description

Diagnostic systems monitor everything from cylinder misfires to improperly closed gas caps. Starting with why we need scanners to work effectively on modern cars, this book teaches readers how to choose the right tool (from the bewildering array of scanners, ranging from hand-held units to computer software), how to use it, and what each code means. It also includes a complete guide to online information sources as well as a comprehensive list of codes. 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!

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #198847 in Books
• Published on: 2008-01-15
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 192 pages

Review
I have always been able to fix electrical problems on cars but sometimes at much wasted expense and effort. Tracy Martin's book is simply the best book I have ever read on this subject. It is a 'nuts and bolts' book that tells you why and how to test a certain way. Suddenly automotive electrical systems make sense to me. This book will save much wasted effort. My father was an electrical engineer and he figured out electrical problems for me. When he died I had to figure this stuff out for myself and I wish I had paid more attention. Tracy Martins book is great, not only do I recommend it ... if Tracy Martin ever writes another one I will buy that too. --Rod and Custom

I'm your average 'Tim The Tool Man' type -- stuff like fixing cars & bikes comes naturally to me, and I'm even pretty good at fabrication stuff like welding, but when it comes to electricity, I scratch my head, grunt, and hope nothing catches fire. Tracy Martin's book actually makes a lot of sense to me, and each chapter builds on previous chapters, which is a big help to me. He doesn't assume you know a lot about electricity, but he doesn't speak down either -- just clear and accessable language. I really like how there aren't a bunch of crazy-looking engineering schematics & symbols, instead, he uses really straighforward illustrations. Good photos too. Everyone from a DIY type to a professional mechanic can learn something from this book. --Midwest Book review

This book is great. Easy to understand & easy to locate information. Very user friendly & laid out well. Good tests for your car, and helps you test your car yourself. Now I don't feel like such an idiot when an electrical malfunction occurs in my car - a good guide & resource! Highly recommend --SpeedTV

Customer Reviews

There should be no secondhand copies
As someone who has been building and repairing vehicles for longer than I care to admit, I have at last realised that I must learn how to deal with vehicles post 1996.
"How to use Automotive Diagnostic scanners" takes you through the whole learning process beginning with why we need computer controlled engines at all, the early types of on board diagnostics, leading to the industry standard of ODB11. A chapter on the various products on offer and benefits of each. A chapter on the use of these tools as a diagnose to what might actually be wrong. A great book, well written, clearly illustrated. When you've finished it, put it on the shelf -you will need it again. There should be no secondhand copies.

A Good Book
Packed with information, not all of which is relevant to British cars, but I am glad I bought it.