All car owners recognize the value of keeping their cars in excellent condition. Auto diagnostic tools, such as the ELM327, have become necessary for the early identification of defects and issues, thereby preventing costly repairs. However, how can you be sure that you're using these tools efficiently without running the danger of damaging a vehicle? We have already told about the Bluetooth scanner ELM327 and discussed the topics of monitoring dynamic parameters and checking the mileage. We recommend reading the articles if you want to improve your experience with OBD2 diagnosis.cs.
However, before we proceed, may the ELM327 scanner and its operation pose any harm to your automobile?
Can a vehicle be harmed by OBD-2 ELM327 scanner?
The device itself cannot damage your car, unless you start waving it and hitting your car. One of the tasks for which the ELM327 scanner is designed is to read your car's engine errors via a smartphone or laptop (at higher and deeper levels of diagnostic). In this case, the scanner is absolutely safe for cars.
Some car owners who used cheap Bluetooth scanners noted the occurrence of temporary problems in the ECU of their car models. Nonetheless, this percentage is so low that it is likely due to an individual factor: the adapter simply did not conform to a specific make and model of automobile. The issue you really might face is the stability of OBD2 adapters. For example: physical damage to the adapter case (cracks in plastic, oxidation of sensors due to improper storage), difficulties with quick connection, loss of connection or its independent activation while driving (if the adapter is connected to the car to record parameters).
The last mentioned issue can cause a symptom error, for example, sensors on the dashboard will go out or vice versa, light up for a moment. By disconnecting the adapter, you will resolve this, and it will not affect the operation of your car. In case of such problems, we recommend replacing the OBD2 adapter, but even in this case, the adapter will not cause damage to the car.
If after diagnostics the car suddenly does not start, we recommend checking the battery, perhaps it is simply dead. However, this difficulty is not typical, and it is related to older cars with high exploitation.
Clearing error codes also cannot harm your car, especially if it is a basic diagnostic via Bluetooth adapter and your smartphone. In this case, the app connects to the car's computer, detects an error and reports to the computer the need to clear or reset them.
Would it be possible to harm a car in any way through OBD2?
If it's about improper use, the answer is "yes", especially if you're using professional diagnostic tools to set up the computer car without having the right expertise. Furthermore, a sudden disconnect of the adapter during diagnostic or cleaning operations may result in unintended issues with the PCM.
Common mistakes when using ELM327
- Using low-quality devices: Inexpensive or counterfeit ELM327 devices may not meet OBD2 requirements, which can damage your vehicle's system.
- Incompatible software: Sometimes the adapter cannot connect to one application, but is completely compatible with another. The reasons may be in the software itself or in the adapter. Just replace one of them.
- Ignoring alerts: Fast action is essential to ensure performance and security; diagnosing problems is only half the battle.
- Wrong exploitation: Incorrect storage (in a damp room), water getting on the contacts - may cause oxidation of the contacts.
- There are some ELM327 adapters with a battery. If you have not used such an adapter for a long time, the battery may run down. Just charge it before using the adapter.
inCarDoc is the perfect app for your ELM327
You need reliable software to get the most out of your ELM327 device. InCarDoc is useful in this situation. The user-friendly inCarDoc app, compatible with both iOS and Android, turns your ELM327 into a top-notch diagnostic tool.
- Affordable diagnostics
Access detailed reports on system status, fault codes and engine performance. The app offers to read DTC descriptions.
- Real-time data monitoring
Keep track of metrics like speed, engine speed and fuel consumption.
- Customizable control panels
Select the design of the displayed graphs, create a custom car diagnostic tasks (PRO version)
- Registration and data exchange
To ensure accurate repairs, keep diagnostic records and send them to your mechanic.
Why choose inCarDoc app?
A reliable solution that works with various vehicles and ELM327 devices, inCarDoc consistently delivers accurate diagnostic results. Regardless of your experience level, the user-friendly interface of the application makes it accessible and easy to use. Perform routine vehicle health checks whenever it suits you. For car owners who want to monitor the health of their car themselves, the ELM327 is an essential tool. inCarDoc offers to purchase a branded OBD2 ELM327 adapter. You can purchase it on our website.
