OBD Archives - Carly Blog

OBD2

Complete Guide to OBD2 Scanners

Get access to your car’s hidden information! Just plug your OBD reader into your car’s OBD port!

What is an OBD2 scanner?

An OBD2 scanner (also called OBD2 reader) is a small device that can give you access to valuable insights about your car! Once you plug a scanner into your car, you will be able to visualize your car’s real-time health status through a mobile app.

Unlocking your car’s inner data will give you full ownership of your car so you always know what is going on and can prevent unexpected and costly repairs.

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What Can an OBD2 Scanner Do?

Unlocking your car’s inner data will give you full ownership of your car so you always know what is going on and can prevent unexpected and costly repairs.

Car Coding

Activate or deactivate pre-set functions in your vehicle, such as the automatic Start-Stop system or headlights.

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Diagnostics and Live Data

Read OBD2 fault codes, find out your car’s overall health status, and access real-time parameters.

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Repair and Maintenance

Get expert information about car maintenance and access repair tips to save money and conduct your own vehicle repairs!

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Used Car Check

Buying a used car? Find out if it’s in good shape, avoid any potential scams, and ensure you’re making a fair purchase with a quick check.

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Ready to customize your car in minutes?

Customize your car's lights, dashboard, and much more! With a small device, called OBD2 scanner, and your phone, you can get full access to your car and code almost everything you want.

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How to use an OBD2 Scanner?

To get started all you need is your Carly OBD2 Scanner, your mobile phone and the Carly App! Setting up everything is easy and can be done in a few minutes.

Watch the video below for a short tutorial on how to use an OBD2 Scanner!

Ask your question!

What is an OBD2 port?

An OBD2 port is a 16-pin outlet or connector where you can plug your OBD2 scanner. Here you can find more about what are OBD2 ports and how they work.

Where can I find my car's OBD2 port?

The OBD2 port is usually located under the steering wheel, by the gas pedals. You can also check your car’s manual to locate the OBD2 port.

Is my car compatible with an OBD2 scanner?

Most cars manufactures after 2001 have the OBD2 interface. So, your car is likely compatible with an OBD2 scanner.

Can I leave my OBD2 scanner plugged into my car?

Yes! It’s is completely safe to leave your OBD2 scanner plugged into your car’s OBD2 port.

What are OBD2 codes?

Whenever there is an issue detected in your car, you’re usually warned by a icon lighting up in your car’s dashboard, such as the check engine light. However, behind the dashboard, there is a whole system tracking these issues.

When you car detects an issue, the vehicle’s system stores it in its error memory in the form of an OBD2 code. This code is composed of letters and numbers which indicate the type of issue and the location where the issue is happening.

With an OBD2 scanner you can easily readout OBD2 error codes and know what issues are present in your car to fix them in time.

How to read out OBD2 codes:

To read out OBD2 error codes, just open your Carly app and perform a quick diagnostics check. This will give you an overview of any issues present at the OBD-level (engine) and manufacturer-level (other systems).

Clearing fault codes can also be done easily from your Carly app. After conducting a diagnostics check, just click on “Clear faults”. If there are any codes present afterwards, take the necessary steps to fix them before they become a serious issues.

Selecting the Best OBD2 Scanner

Below you can compare what different OBD2 scanners can offer your vehicle. We believe that the best scanner is the one that can offer you the most value and features for an affordable price.

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