2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:42
Timely detection of deviations and malfunctions at an early stage is the key to stable operation and durability of the vehicle. To achieve this goal, computer diagnostics of cars is carried out. This is a wide range of diagnostic measures carried out using computer technology, aimed at identifying malfunctions by reading information from sensors located on the main components of the car.
The importance of computer diagnostics
For the normal functioning of the components and assemblies of vehicles, computer diagnostics of vehicles should be periodically carried out. This is due to an increase in the share of electronic components - chips, sensors, microcircuits - in the design of the machine. Checking their performance, identifying errors in their software is possible only with the use of computer technology.
In a modern car, almostall systems are equipped with electronic control chips and control sensors. Moreover, some systems such as ABS, engine, transmission, airbags can no longer function without microprocessors.
On the one hand, this complicates maintenance, and on the other hand, it reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns and accidents. Computer diagnostics of car systems can never completely replace a visual inspection - they must complement each other.
Diagnostic process
Computer diagnostics is the process of reading and subsequent decoding of error codes from electronic controls and controls of cars. For this purpose, specialized computer stands are connected to the systems - OEM scanners, portable readers, multifunctional devices.
Each manufacturer produces its own diagnostic scanners that are compatible with the electronic components of a particular model and are best suited for testing. Computer diagnostics of vehicle malfunctions allows you to read and detect the slightest malfunctions in the systems in real time. All information is displayed on the scanner display or on the monitor of a PC or laptop computer.
Diagnostic steps
The duration of the study of electronic components of the car usually does not exceed 30 minutes. In cases where a specific node is tested (ABS, engine), the first results are obtained after 10 minutes. In any case, diagnosisis carried out in three stages:
- General computer diagnostics of cars. This is reading error codes in "standby mode" when none of the systems is functioning. It is necessary to identify a faulty unit.
- Dynamic check. The car is installed on a special stand, its main systems are launched, information is read from functioning sensors.
- Deleting data. The database accumulated by the on-board computer is deleted, the controllers are initialized (activated) to collect information.
The error codes received during diagnostics are decoded using special applications. Based on these data, a verdict is issued about the malfunction of a particular system.
When to diagnose?
At least once a year, computer diagnostics of cars should be carried out. This is if your machine functions without obvious malfunctions.
In case of appearance of uncharacteristic sounds, jerks, shocks and other phenomena while driving, you should immediately contact the center for diagnostics:
- of the engine, if it is unstable, loses power, increased fuel consumption, extraneous noise appeared;
- automatic transmission - when slipping, jerking, knocking, oil leakage, inability to turn on any speed;
- suspension - with uneven wear of rubber, after the appearance of knocks on the maneuver;
- ABS - if the car skids while cornering, stability has decreased byroad;
- steering rack - when there are knocks, squeaks, increased play or leakage from the torque converter.
After diagnosing the systems and identifying the real causes of malfunctions, a visual inspection and repair of the car by a specialist master is carried out.
Types of diagnostic devices
All computer diagnostic systems for cars have two classifications - according to performance and functionality. The first group includes stand-alone scanners and adapters. The first are similar in size to a walkie-talkie, have a display in their design and allow you to directly connect to a machine to read information.
Adapters work only in conjunction with a computer that is connected to the ECU or car sensors with a cable. According to the functional feature, the equipment can be:
- dealer - scanners from the automaker, are fully compatible with the machine, the possibility of reprogramming the ECU;
- branded - diagnostic tools released by a third party for a specific brand or model;
- multi-brand - devices compatible with all cars or with vehicles from any region (South Asian, American).
Obviously, it is better to give preference to dealer equipment, but its cost can reach several thousand dollars. Other scanners have less functionality, but it is enough for troubleshooting.
Self-diagnosis
Many modern cars are equipped withself-diagnostic systems. Such equipment independently analyzes the vehicle systems and notifies the driver of the occurrence of malfunctions. If you notice that the responsible indicator on the dashboard lights up or goes out, then the computer diagnostics of the car has worked. Repairs must be completed immediately, otherwise you risk undermining the performance of other components.
Computerization and automation are inevitable phenomena accompanying technological progress. Electronic diagnostics can significantly reduce the cost of maintaining a car. However, it is worth remembering that such an event cannot identify all malfunctions. To achieve maximum efficiency from the procedure, it is necessary to carry it out in tandem with a vehicle inspection by a specialist master.
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