Diagnostics Basics
Can I Drive With the Check Engine Light On?
Can you drive with the check engine light on? Learn what a steady or flashing light can mean, when to stop, and how to check the cause safely.
Diagnostics Basics
Plain answers on codes, the check engine light, the OBD2 port and what a shop would charge to scan your car.
Diagnostics BasicsHow Much Does a Car Diagnostic Test Cost?
Car diagnostic test cost depends on the shop, the warning light, and the tests needed. Learn what affects the bill and when a scan tool can help.
Diagnostics BasicsCar Diagnostic Tools: A Plain Buying Guide
A car diagnostic tool reads trouble codes, shows live data and may support repairs. Compare scanner types, confirm vehicle coverage and choose the right tool.
- Diagnostics Basics
How to Clear the Check Engine Light With a Scanner
Learn how to clear a check engine light with a scanner, choose a compatible tool, save the trouble code, fix the cause, and check readiness monitors afterward.
Diagnostics BasicsHow to Read OBD2 Codes From Your Car
Learn how to read OBD2 codes, choose a scanner, check code definitions, and use scan data to decide what to inspect before you make a repair.
- Diagnostics Basics
OBD1 vs OBD2: What Changed?
OBD1 vs OBD2: learn how standardization, connectors, codes and emissions checks changed, and what to check before choosing a scanner for your car.
- Diagnostics Basics
Pending Code vs Stored Code: What Is the Difference?
Pending code vs stored code: learn what each status means, why a code may change, and what to check before clearing a warning or choosing a scanner.
Diagnostics BasicsWhat Does the Check Engine Light Mean?
Learn what a check engine light means, how steady and flashing warnings differ, what an OBD2 code can tell you, and what to check next.
- Diagnostics Basics
What Is Freeze Frame Data on a Scan Tool?
Learn what freeze frame data is, what engine conditions it records when a fault appears, and how to use it with trouble codes and live data.
- Diagnostics Basics
Where Is the OBD2 Port in a Car?
Find where the OBD2 port is in a car, learn what it looks like, and check common locations before plugging in a scanner or code reader.