How to Check, Read Errors & Clear Errors Using a Diagnostic Machine

- How to Check, Read Errors & Clear Errors Using a Diagnostic Machine
Latest update date: February 27, 08

Auto diagnostic machine is an electronic device designed to connect to the vehicle's electronic control system. Through this connection, the machine will read and analyze error codes stored in the vehicle's memory. These error codes provide detailed information about problems occurring in the vehicle, from minor errors such as a broken sensor to more serious errors such as engine problems.

In an age of rapidly evolving technology, car diagnostics and repair have become more complex than ever. This article will provide an overview of how to use modern diagnostic machines to test, read and clear errors in cars, along with specific statistics and examples.

- How to Check, Read Errors & Clear Errors Using a Diagnostic Machine
How to check, read errors & erase errors with an accurate diagnostic machine

The need for a car diagnostic machine

With the development of automotive technology, vehicle electronic systems are increasingly complex. According to statistics, a modern car can have up to 100 million lines of code that control different functions. This makes fault diagnosis using traditional methods ineffective and time-consuming.

Main benefits of diagnostic machines:

  • Save time: Reduce diagnostic time from hours to minutes.
  • High accuracy: Determine the exact location and cause of errors.
  • Comprehensive: Test multiple systems at the same time.
  • Updated: Always updated to be compatible with new car models.

Popular types of diagnostic machines

1. VASS 5054A diagnostic device

  • Specialized for Audi cars and affiliated brands.
  • Support reading/clearing errors, resetting technical parameters.
Diagnostic device VASS 5054 A
Diagnostic device VASS 5054 A

2. ICOM 2 diagnostic equipment

  • For BMW, Rolls-Royce, MINI cars.
  • Ability to program ECU and update software.

3. MER C4 diagnostic device

  • Specialized for Mercedes-Benz, Maybach.
  • Supports comprehensive diagnostics and key programming.
MER C4 diagnostic device
MER C4 diagnostic device

4. TECHSTREAM diagnostic equipment

  • Used for Toyota, Lexus, Scion cars.
  • Ability to reset sensors and safety systems.
TECHTREAM diagnostic equipment
TECHTREAM diagnostic equipment

5. OBD II diagnostic device

  • Popular for Honda, Acura cars.
  • Read and clear error codes, display real-time data.
OBD II diagnostic device
OBD II diagnostic device

6. Multifunctional LAUNCH diagnostic device

  • Supports many popular car brands in Vietnam.
  • Integrates many functions such as error reading, actuator testing, ECU programming.
Multi-purpose LAUNCH diagnostic device
Multi-purpose LAUNCH diagnostic device

Procedure for checking and clearing errors

The process of checking & clearing errors on cars includes the following 8 main steps:

  • Device connection: Plug the diagnostic device into the vehicle's OBD II port.
  • System scan: The device will scan all ECUs on the vehicle.
  • Read error codes: Display error codes (DTC - Diagnostic Trouble Codes) if any.
  • Data analysis: Review vehicle performance parameters.
  • Determine cause: Based on error code and collected data.
  • Repair: Repair or replace necessary components.
  • Clear error: After repair, clear error code from ECU memory.
  • Retest: Rerun the diagnostic process to ensure the error has been resolved.

For example:

A study at a large auto maintenance center found:

  • 70% of errors are detected quickly within 15 minutes by diagnostic machines.
  • Average repair time is reduced by 30% when using diagnostic machines compared to traditional methods.
  • The accurate diagnosis rate increased from 75% to 95% when using modern diagnostic machines.

Car diagnostic machines have become indispensable tools in the modern auto industry. With the ability to provide accurate and quick information, these devices help save time, costs and improve repair efficiency. However, to use it effectively, technicians need to be properly trained and regularly update their knowledge about new automotive technology.

Frequently asked questions

1. How often is the software updated for car diagnostic machines?

The frequency of updates depends on the manufacturer and model of the diagnostic device. Normally, major manufacturers such as Bosch, Launch, Autel provide software updates quarterly or 2-3 times/year. For high-end models, monthly updates can be received. For example, the VASS 5054A diagnostic machine for Audi cars is updated on average 8-10 times/year. See Top 8 now Software to check/repair car errors good, most prestigious today.

2. How to distinguish between hardware errors and software errors when using a diagnostic machine?

To distinguish between hardware and software errors, take the following steps:

  • Read error codes and detailed descriptions
  • Check the real-time data (live data) of the relevant sensor
  • Perform an actuation test if applicable
  • Compare with manufacturer's standard data

Typically, hardware errors will give abnormal results in all three steps above, while software errors may only display error codes without affecting the actual data.

3. Can a diagnostic machine be used to customize vehicle performance?

Yes, some high-end diagnostic machines have the ability to customize vehicle performance through adjusting ECU parameters. However, this requires in-depth knowledge and may affect the vehicle warranty.

For example, the COBB AccessPort diagnostic machine allows for a 10-15% increase in power for some sports car models, but needs to be performed by an experienced specialist.

4. How to ensure security when using car diagnostic machines?

To ensure security when using diagnostic equipment, the following measures should be taken:

  • Use a diagnostic machine with a security certificate from the manufacturer
  • Update software regularly to patch security holes
  • Do not connect the machine to an untrusted network
  • Delete customer data after each use

According to statistics, 95% of cyber attacks on automotive systems can be prevented by following basic security rules.

5. Can a car diagnostic machine be used to check the vehicle's maintenance history?

Yes, many modern diagnostic machines are capable of reading and displaying the maintenance history stored in the vehicle's ECU. However, the level of detail depends on each car make and model. For example, a dedicated Mercedes-Benz diagnostic machine can display the history of the last 10 maintenance visits, including date, mileage, and services performed. This helps verify the maintenance history of used vehicles with up to 90% accuracy.

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Cars Care Service Price Sheet At Thanh Phong Auto HCMC VietNam:

* The cars that we have mechanics: Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Lexus, Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Kia, Daewoo, Hyundai,Ford, Nissan, Volkswagen, Porsche, Chevrolet, Rand Rover, Innova, Fortuner, Vios, Fiat, Bugatti, Ferrari, Bentley, Hummer , Chrysler, Dodge, Renault, Cadillac, Volvo, Subaru, Daihatsu, Ssangyong, Roll-Royce, Peugeot, Smart Fortwo, Tobe M'car, Luxgen, Zotye, Haima, Geely, Baic, Hongqi, Cmc, Mini Cooper, Buick, Opel, Acura, Aston Martin, Vinfast, TQ Wuling, BYD.

 

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