The Easy Way To Simplify Your Car's Error Codes
Modern cars are basically computers on wheels.
With so many electrical systems, sensors, and motors, there’s so much that could potentially go wrong. When something does go awry, pinpointing the specific issue can be tricky, even for those with mechanical knowledge.
Code readers, or car scanners, are a great tool for those looking to get information from their vehicles quickly and conveniently. By plugging into the vehicle’s computer through the OBD-II port, virtually every sensor detail can be viewed and/or downloaded.
Getting Set Up
Although they’re nothing new, code readers are getting more and more sophisticated, like the product I have for review from FIXD. Like most code readers, the FIXD module plugs into your vehicles OBD-II port and uses Bluetooth to connect to your phone.
The FIXD app can be found in the Apple App store or the Google Play store. Once downloaded and installed it is quite easy to pair the app up with the FIXD module plugged into your vehicle. Getting set up through the step-by-step process is quite simple when following the prompts. Once ready to scan, the app will download all the information from your vehicle and load it into your phone.
FIXD For All Skill Levels
Once the data is available, it’s up to the user to decide how deep they want to go into details. Any current problem codes are described in simpler terms and include the potential cause, how it’s affecting your vehicle, and how major of an issue it is. If subscribed to the FIXD Premium plan, it’s then possible to get a repair estimates, predict future car issues, book a repair with a local mechanic (in the United States only), or even speak to a mechanic live.
Those like me with novice mechanical knowledge can use the reader to see the issue(s) and clear the codes from the vehicle if desired. More knowledgable mechanics can use the system to instantly discover what needs to be fixed/addressed and get to it.
Real World Test
It just so happens that my personal car has had a check engine light illuminated for quite a few weeks now. Below is a video test and review, using the FIXD code reader for the first time.
Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.
More by Mike Schlee
Comments
Join the conversation