In 2019, car owners in Australia had access to a wide array of OBD2 scanners, each promising to be the best tool for diagnosing vehicle issues. Navigating this market required understanding what to look for in a scanner to ensure it met your specific needs and provided accurate, reliable results. This guide will help you understand the key aspects of choosing the right OBD2 scanner in Australia during 2019, ensuring you were equipped to tackle car diagnostics effectively.
When selecting an OBD2 scanner, compatibility is paramount. Australia, like many other countries, adopted OBD2 standards, but it’s crucial to confirm that any scanner you considered was fully compatible with your vehicle’s make and model year. By 2019, most scanners on the market supported a broad range of vehicles, but it was still essential to double-check, especially for older or less common car models. Beyond basic code reading and clearing, the “best” OBD2 scanner in 2019 often meant one that offered advanced functionalities. Features such as live data streaming, allowing you to monitor real-time engine performance, and enhanced diagnostics for systems beyond the engine, like ABS and airbags, were highly valued. Some scanners also provided bidirectional control, enabling users to command the car’s systems to perform tests, a feature particularly useful for more in-depth troubleshooting.
For users working with specific car brands, scanners with enhanced manufacturer-specific diagnostics were highly sought after. While generic OBD2 scanners cover basic functions across most makes, those with deeper access to systems like Jaguar and Land Rover, for example, offered capabilities akin to professional garage tools. These specialized tools, sometimes utilizing interfaces like VCM devices and compliant with standards such as J2534 pass-thru, provided access to modules for programming and advanced diagnostics that generic scanners simply couldn’t reach. It was also important to consider the software aspect. Reliable and regularly updated software was crucial for scanner performance, ensuring compatibility with the latest vehicle models and accurate diagnostic readings. Opting for reputable brands and avoiding unverified or “hacked” software sources was a key consideration for ensuring both functionality and security.
Ultimately, the best OBD2 scanner in Australia in 2019 depended on individual needs and budget. For basic home use, a simple code reader might suffice. However, for enthusiasts or those wanting more comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, investing in a mid-range or advanced scanner with features like live data, enhanced system diagnostics, and robust software was a worthwhile investment. Considering factors like ease of use, update availability, and vehicle compatibility ensured that car owners could choose a tool that empowered them to understand and maintain their vehicles effectively.
