Unless you’ve completely avoided the automotive world, you’ve likely heard about the OBD2 port in your car. It’s often mentioned as a way to “diagnose and fix car problems.” However, the OBD2 port itself is just a connection point. To actually understand what your car is telling you, you need a tool to plug into it – something that can read and interpret the data. If you’re new to OBD2 ports and their capabilities, you can find a detailed explanation here.
We recently got our hands on a handy device, the Autophix OM126 OBD2 Scanner (also known as Autophix Om126 Kfz Obd2 Diagnosegerät in German markets). We decided to put it to the test to give you a thorough review, helping you make a smart choice when you’re in the market for an OBD2 scanner or code reader. The Autophix OM126 is designed to put your vehicle’s data and Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) right at your fingertips. This can be incredibly useful for getting your car out of limp mode, diagnosing issues that might otherwise require an expensive tow to a mechanic or dealership.
Close-up of the Autophix OM126 OBD2 scanner being held in a hand, showcasing its portable size and color display, emphasizing its user-friendly design for vehicle diagnostics.
Autophix offers a range of scanners, and the OM126 is their dedicated OBD2 code reader. This tool provides access to crucial vehicle information, including:
- Reading Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Identifies the source of your check engine light and other vehicle issues.
- Clearing/Erasing DTCs: Resets the check engine light and clears stored trouble codes after repairs.
- I/M Readiness: Checks the status of your vehicle’s emission control system to ensure it will pass emissions testing.
- Data Streaming and Logging: Provides real-time data from your vehicle’s sensors for in-depth analysis.
- O2 Sensor Tests: Specifically for petrol vehicles, tests the performance of your oxygen sensors.
- EGR/EGT Information: Accesses Exhaust Gas Recirculation and Exhaust Gas Temperature data where applicable in your vehicle.
- DTC Lookup from Code: Allows you to understand what specific trouble codes mean (refer to our OBD2 guide here).
- Upgradable Software: Ensures your scanner stays current with the latest vehicle protocols via USB updates.
After using the Autophix OM126 OBD2 diagnosegerät on a HiLux, we were genuinely impressed. The full-color display is clear and easy to read, and it’s compatible with any OBD2/CAN port manufactured after 1996. It supports all OBD2 and CAN protocols, meaning it should work with the vast majority of vehicles on the road today.
The Autophix OM126 OBD2 scanner displaying live vehicle data on its color screen, highlighting the device’s ability to provide real-time diagnostic information for users.
The amount of data provided by the Autophix OM126 scanner is substantial, giving you the information needed to accurately diagnose problems with your vehicle. Its compact size is another advantage, easily fitting in your glovebox for on-the-go diagnostics. Priced affordably, the Autophix OM126 kfz obd2 diagnosegerät can quickly pay for itself. Just one use to clear a code could save you the cost of a tow truck. And, depending on the issue and your DIY skills, it could even prevent a trip to the mechanic altogether.
Overall, the Autophix OM126 is a valuable tool for any car owner. The only data we couldn’t access on the HiLux was gearbox information – but that’s because the test vehicle has a manual transmission without a gearbox ECU! This OBD2 scanner is a worthwhile investment for proactive vehicle maintenance and diagnostics.