What Is A Bidirectional Scan Tool?
In the automotive industry, there are tools for almost every job. Some of these tools are highly specialized and perform only one task. However, some tools are more universal and can be used in a variety of situations. A bidirectional scan tool falls into this category. It is a type of OBD scanner that can read and clear diagnostic codes on your car as well as reset them if needed.
Don’t forget to also peruse our oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and other electronics lab tools.
Many people who work in the auto industry will have encountered and understood what an OBD scanner is. However, they may not be aware that there is a bidirectional version available too. We’ll explore what a bidirectional scan tool does and why you need one sooner rather than later!
What Is A Bidirectional Scan Tool?
A bidirectional scan tool is a type of OBD scanner that can read both engine and vehicle data. This data can then be displayed on the screen of the scanner. The scanner can also be used to reset the codes if you find that your car is throwing them.
When you use a scan tool on your vehicle, it enables you to read data from many different sensors and modules. Some of these sensors and modules are vehicle-related, others are car engine related.
The following list highlights some of the components you can use a bidirectional scan tool to access:
– Engine sensors (RPM, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and fuel delivery sensor);
– Vehicle sensors (brake fluid level, the steering position sensor, and the transmission fluid temperature);
– Transmission (transmission fluid level and transmission solenoid positions);
– Body control module (horn, the parking lights, and the cam position sensor);
– Towing mode (towing mode status).
Why You Need A Bidirectional Scan Tool
There are a few reasons why you should consider using a scan tool. One of the most important reasons is that you can use it to clear your engine and transmission codes.
Engine codes can be caused by a variety of issues. While some of these issues are severe, others are simple and easy to remedy. However, until you clear the code from your car, the engine ECU cannot operate properly. This can lead to reduced performance and poorer fuel economy.
Transmission codes, on the other hand, can be a sign that there is a problem with your automatic transmission. This can be a more serious issue. This is why it is important to reset the codes as soon as you can.
Another good reason to use a bidirectional scan tool is that it can help you determine the cause of a problem that is throwing a code. For example, let’s say you have recently changed your spark plugs. After a short period of time, you notice that one of the spark plugs is misfiring. This is likely to be due to a short in the spark plug. You can use a scan tool to read the data from the misfiring spark plug. This will help you to determine the cause of the misfire.
How A Bidirectional Scan Tool Works
A scan tool works similarly to a traditional OBD scanner. However, there are a few key differences.
The most important difference is that it allows you to send data to your car as well as read data from your car.
When you plug a bidirectional scan tool into your car, it will send a signal to the car’s computer. This will enable the computer to recognize that the tool is connected.
You can then use the tool to read data from the car’s computer. The data can be sent to the screen of the scan tool where it can be displayed. The data can also be sent to a laptop or computer connected to the tool via a USB cable.
If you have a bidirectional scan tool, you can use it to read the data from a variety of sensors and modules on your car. You can then use this data to determine the source of a fault or problem with your car. This can be very useful in some situations. For example, if one of your engine sensors is misfiring, it can throw a code that indicates this. However, it doesn’t say which engine sensor is the problem. This is where a bidirectional scan tool can be really helpful. You can use it to read the data from the sensor and determine which one has failed.
3 Brands You Should Know
There are many brands of scan tools available on the market. Below are just three of the most well-known brands for you to consider when purchasing a bidirectional scan tool.
If you’re looking for the best infrared scan tool, then you might also want to know about a few disadvantages of infrared scan tools before you buy one.
BlueDriver – BlueDriver is one of the most well-known brands in the bidirectional scan tool market. They have a wide range of products available on the market. They also have a free mobile app that works with most of their products.
Autel – Autel is another well-known brand that manufactures bidirectional scan tools. Autel scan tools are very popular among mechanics.
Launch – Launch is a relatively new brand of bidirectional scan tools. However, they are quickly growing in popularity thanks to their high-quality products that are reasonably priced.
Reviewer Final Comments
As you have read above, a bidirectional scan tool can be very useful in the automotive industry. This is especially true if you work on cars on a frequent basis. You can use it to diagnose a range of problems. The tool can also help you to understand the cause of the problem.
A bidirectional scan tool can be useful in many situations. However, they are not cheap. Most of the time, you will have to spend more than $100 to purchase one. However, considering the benefits that you will get from using the scan tool, this cost is well worth it. If you work in the automotive industry, then we encourage you to buy it. This will make your job much easier.
