Vehicle scanning is crucial in today’s automotive repair industry. Modern cars are equipped with complex computer networks that monitor everything from tire pressure to fuel efficiency. To diagnose issues effectively, you need the right hardware and software to read these codes.
Autel diagnostic tools from Triad Diagnostic Solutions provide everything your team needs to connect to OBD II ports and read error codes for various makes and models. By reading these codes, your technicians can make repairs more efficiently. Read on to learn why clearing these codes is an essential part of the repair process.
The Repair Process
When a dashboard warning light comes on, it can cause anxiety for the driver, especially if the problem isn’t immediately obvious. Modern vehicles rely on computers to monitor all systems, and these lights can indicate a wide range of issues. The check engine light, for instance, can represent numerous malfunctions. Another common warning is the oil light, which can be easily diagnosed and cleared with a scan tool like the MaxiSERVICE OLS301.
Scanning for error codes allows your techs to properly diagnose and repair the issue before the vehicle leaves your shop. Without a scan tool, reading these codes becomes impossible, potentially leading to incomplete repairs or spending hours troubleshooting without solving the original problem. Ensuring a thorough repair upfront saves your shop time and money in the long run.
Why Clearing Codes is Important
Dashboard warning lights signal a malfunction, and technicians should never clear codes without making the necessary repairs. They should first document the error and complete the required fixes. When a code clears, it’s a sign that the vehicle has been properly repaired. However, there are times when manually clearing a code is part of the process.
For example, a check engine light may come on if the gas cap isn’t tightened properly. Even after tightening the cap, the light may remain on for several drive cycles. In this case, manually clearing the code allows the system to correctly read other errors without waiting for the computer to reset.
To find out more about why clearing codes are important, check out our blog.
Monitor the Health of Your Vehicles
Documenting, repairing, and clearing codes is an effective way to monitor the health of your fleet or your customers’ vehicles. It helps detect recurring issues, monitor driving habits, and identify what could be causing breakdowns. Failing to clear a code after a repair may lead to confusion or repeating work to recheck the issue, which is why clearing codes should always be a key part of the repair process.
Scan Your Fleet with Autel
Autel diagnostic tools are reliable and easy to use, which is why Triad Diagnostic Solutions offers them exclusively. We have everything you need to read hundreds of error and fault codes for heavy-duty commercial and automotive vehicles. Contact Triad today!