The modern auto industry has regularly surprised with new exciting possibilities, features, better safety characteristics, and other attractive innovations. Accordingly, “smart” cars need more complicated diagnostics and maintenance. Many motorists often ask a question—what is a car diagnostic check and why is it so important?

Discover car diagnostics meaning

Computer diagnostics of a car are recommended for comprehensive testing of the vehicle and, in fact, all the systems controlled by the ECU. Thanks to the OBD2 standard, the diagnostic process is standardized, so every driver can check the car for errors. At a minimum, you need an adapter and a smartphone.

What does a diagnostic test on a car tell you? In fact, are all the car systems working properly? What are its current performance, and fuel consumption, and are all the sensors reading the information correctly? Using the mobile app and adapter, or at service centers that offer in-depth OBD2 testing, you can detect system error codes. For example, the fault code P0141 means that a defect has been detected in the oxygen sensor heating element on the second sensor of the first can.

What do diagnostic tests check?

Computerized car diagnostics are aimed at checking the electronic and electrical systems of a car. The test detects errors and malfunctions in the engine, chassis, brake system, transmission, and electronic control units.

When do you need car computer diagnostics?

◆ If the Check Engine sensor lights up;
◆ To analyse future repairs during the technical inspection;
◆ When buying a used car and checking it out;
◆ If other indicators on the dashboard light up
◆ If fuel consumption has increased;
◆ If the engine performance decreases.

Please note that OBD II standards support most cars made after 1996. If your car is older than 2006, we recommend checking whether it supports OBD2 standards.

What is the difference between professional and DIY diagnostics?

To understand in detail what an engine diagnostic is, we suggest that you understand the difference between a professional approach and diagnostics via a smartphone.

What does a car diagnostic test consist of

1. Search and detection of diagnostic connector

2. Scanner connection and reading trouble codes

3. Interpretation and troubleshooting

The main difference between service checks is access to professional equipment that allows you to check not only general codes, but also manufacturer codes. As we wrote in our other article on DTCs, the number of such codes exceeds 50,000. Some modern mobile apps scan all car systems, not just the engine. However, professional OBD2 diagnostics are really capable of performing a full analysis. This is where the significant differences end, because modern OBD2 apps like inCarDoc check all systems, read engine data during a hands-on inspection, and allow you to clear error codes.

Of course, if the error persists or continues to appear, the driver should contact a specialist.

What does a diagnostic test do for a car

To perform computer diagnostics on your own, you will need an ELM327 OBD2 Bluetooth/Wi-Fi adapter and the inCarDoc app for iOS or Android.

◆ First, locate the OBD2 connector.
◆ Connect the adapter to the connector and wait for the light on the adapter to turn on.
◆ Switch on Bluetooth or Wi-Fi (depending on the adapter characteristics) on your smartphone
◆ In the inCarDoc settings, also select the appropriate connection type
◆ On the main screen, enter your car data for accurate diagnostics (model, year, engine, etc.). Click the ‘Connect’ button.
◆ When the diagnosis is complete, you can view the detected errors and clear them.

Advantages of computer diagnostic testing

This is undoubtedly a necessary procedure. In addition, there is another advantage – the low cost of computerized vehicle diagnostics. It can prevent costly maintenance and save you money.

◆ Fast fault detection
◆ Accuracy and reliability
◆ Access to hidden errors
◆ Saving time and money
◆ Prevention of future breakdowns
◆ Testing in real time
◆ Resetting errors and adaptations
◆ Check before buying a car
◆ Safe for cars

How long does a computer diagnostic take

Speed is one of the advantages of computer diagnostics. It takes up to 10 minutes to check and clean the car.

Why choose the inCarDoc app for a car diagnostic test?

inCarDoc has paid and free versions. The inCarDoc PRO version offers additional features such as Economiser, customization of certain parameters, and mode 06. The app does not limit its users in resetting errors or diagnostics. We also offer real-time recording of dynamic parameters, but you can view each parameter individually. inCarDoc supports GPS and offers users to search for parking areas, petrol stations, and service centers and build economical routes. The application also has a logbook where you can save diagnostic tests and enter data about car maintenance. To try out inCarDoc, go to the App Store or Play Market to download the app. We hope you now know what a diagnostic on a car does.