What Scan Tool Does Ford Use? [Professional Auto Mechanic Recommends This]

As automotive technology advances, the tools used to diagnose and repair vehicles have become increasingly sophisticated.

For Ford vehicles, having the right scan tool is essential for accurate diagnostics and efficient repairs.

Whether you're a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, understanding which scan tools are best suited for Ford vehicles can make a significant difference in your ability to maintain and repair these vehicles.

In this article, we explore the scan tools Ford uses, the history of OBD systems in Ford vehicles, and how you can choose the best diagnostic tool for your needs.

What is Ford OBD

The On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system in Ford vehicles is a crucial component for monitoring the health and performance of the car.

This system continuously tracks the engine, transmission, emissions, and other critical systems, ensuring they are operating correctly.

If any issues arise, the OBD system detects them and triggers the Check Engine Light (CEL) on the dashboard, alerting the driver to potential problems.

Ford's OBD system has evolved significantly over the years.

The first generation, known as OBD1, was limited in its capabilities, providing basic monitoring and diagnostic functions.

However, with the introduction of OBD2 in 1996, the system became much more advanced.

The OBD2 system not only standardized diagnostic protocols across all vehicles sold in the U.S., including Ford, but it also expanded the range of issues that could be monitored and provided more detailed diagnostic codes, making it easier to diagnose and fix problems.

When Did Ford Use OBD2

Ford implemented the OBD2 system in its vehicles starting in 1996.

This system was a significant upgrade from the earlier OBD1 system, offering more comprehensive monitoring of vehicle systems and standardized codes that facilitated easier diagnostics.

The shift to OBD2 was driven by federal regulations that required all car manufacturers to adopt this standardized system, which helped unify diagnostic procedures across different makes and models.

The use of OBD2 technology means that Ford vehicles from 1996 onward can provide detailed information about engine misfires, fuel system issues, and emissions control problems.

This advancement made it possible for mechanics and vehicle owners to diagnose issues more accurately and efficiently, reducing the time and costs associated with repairs.

Related Reading: How to Reset Check Engine Light Without Car Scanner

When Should You Use OBD2 Car Scanner

An OBD2 car scanner is an invaluable tool whenever the Check Engine Light (CEL) appears on your Ford’s dashboard.

This light indicates that the OBD2 system has detected a fault, and the scanner can retrieve the specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that point to the underlying issue.

Whether your vehicle is exhibiting symptoms like rough idling, poor fuel efficiency, or strange engine noises, OBD2 scanner can help you identify the problem quickly, allowing for timely repairs.

In addition to addressing immediate issues, OBD2 scanner is also useful for routine checks.

It enables you to monitor your vehicle’s systems in real-time, check for any pending codes, and ensure everything is running smoothly.

ANCEL X7 Full System Automotive Scanner Immobilizer Key Programming
$369.99

shop now

This is the Best Ford Diagnostic Tool

When it comes to diagnosing Ford vehicles, the best tool on the market is the ANCEL X7 car scanner.

Priced at $369.99, this advanced diagnostic tool is designed to meet the needs of both professional mechanics and everyday Ford owners, offering comprehensive features that make it the ideal choice for tackling any automotive issue.

The ANCEL X7 car scanner is packed with powerful features that go beyond basic diagnostics, making it an indispensable tool for anyone serious about vehicle maintenance.

ECU Coding: Re-flash and reprogram the control modules in your Ford's engine control unit (ECU) to optimize vehicle performance, especially for VW & Audi. This feature allows you to update the software on the ECU, which can improve everything from fuel efficiency to engine responsiveness.

IMMO Keys: The ANCEL X7 supports immobilizer keys, which are crucial for preventing unauthorized access and theft. This tool can program and manage the transponder chips in your Ford's keys, ensuring that only the correct keys can start the vehicle.

10+ Hot Reset Services:

✅ IMMO Keys

✅ Oil Reset

✅ EPB Reset

✅ DPF Reset

✅ ABS Bleeding

✅ SAS Reset

✅ BMS Register

✅ TPMS Service

✅ TPS Reset

✅ Injector Reset

These hot reset services allow you to quickly address and reset various vehicle systems, ensuring that your Ford operates at peak performance.

Active Test: This feature allows you to confirm the proper functionality of a system or device within your Ford. It’s essential for diagnosing issues, calibrating settings, or configuring the vehicle to your specific needs.

Wireless Connection: The ANCEL X7 offers both wireless VCI and lined USB connections. The wireless VCI allows for seamless communication between the vehicle and the diagnostic tool, providing you with greater flexibility and ease of use.

ALL System Diagnostics:

🔧 Engine

🔧 Airbag/SRS

🔧 Transmission

🔧 ABS

🔧 SAS

🔧 Air Conditioning

🔧 ACC

🔧 ESP

🔧 Suspension failures

🔧 Audio

🔧 Headlight

🔧 Center Lock

The ANCEL X7 can diagnose issues across all of your Ford's systems, ensuring that no problem goes undetected.

Whether it’s the engine, air conditioning, or suspension, this tool has you covered.

What Do Professional Mechanics Think

John Smith, a seasoned professional mechanic who recently purchased the ANCEL X7 Car Scanner from ANCEL, shares his experience with the tool.

With years of expertise working on Ford vehicles, John confidently states that the ANCEL X7 Car Scanner is one of the best diagnostic tools available today.

The combination of its comprehensive system coverage, advanced features like ECU Coding and Active Test, and its ease of use makes it an invaluable asset in any garage.

"In my day-to-day work, having a reliable and versatile tool is crucial.

The ANCEL X7 has proven to be just that—it allows me to quickly diagnose issues, perform complex repairs, and ensure that every Ford vehicle I work on leaves the shop in top condition.

Its wireless connection feature, in particular, has made the diagnostic process much smoother and more efficient, saving me time and reducing the margin for error," says John.

What Do Ford Owners Think

Emily Johnson, a dedicated Ford owner, recently decided to invest in the ANCEL X7 Car Scanner after researching various diagnostic tools on the market.

Having owned her Ford for several years, Emily was looking for a reliable and easy-to-use tool that would allow her to take better care of her vehicle without always relying on costly dealership diagnostics.

"Using the ANCEL X7 Car Scanner has been a game-changer for maintaining my Ford.

Before purchasing the ANCEL X7, I often found myself frustrated with unclear warning lights and the high cost of diagnostic services at the dealership.

Now, I can quickly scan my Ford at home, understand exactly what’s going on, and even reset certain systems myself," Emily shares.

The ECU Coding feature has allowed her to optimize her vehicle’s performance, while the 10+ Hot Reset Services have been incredibly handy for routine maintenance tasks.

The ability to perform an Active Test has given her confidence that all systems are functioning correctly before she hits the road.

I Don’t Have an ANCEL X7, How Should I Check the Engine Light

If you don’t have the ANCEL X7 Car Scanner on hand and your Ford’s Check Engine Light (CEL) comes on, there are still ways to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) without a professional tool.

While these methods are not as comprehensive or reliable as using the ANCEL X7, they can still help you identify the problem. Below, we provide detailed instructions for two common methods: the key cycling technique and the dashboard odometer trick.

Key Cycling Technique

The key cycling technique is a simple method that might allow you to access the DTCs stored in your Ford’s OBD system without using a scanner. Here’s how to perform it:

1. Insert the Key into the Ignition:

Ensure the key is fully inserted into the ignition slot.

2.Turn the Key to the 'On' Position:

Turn the key to the 'On' position without starting the engine. The 'On' position is where the dashboard lights up, but the engine doesn’t turn over.

3. Turn the Key Off and Then On Again:

Turn the key back to the 'Off' position and then back to the 'On' position. Do this quickly, but smoothly, so that the ignition recognizes each step.

4. Repeat the Process Three Times:

You will need to cycle the key from 'Off' to 'On' three times. On the third cycle, leave the key in the 'On' position.

5. Observe the Dashboard:

If your Ford supports this method, the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) should appear on the dashboard display. The codes may be shown as a series of numbers or blinking lights, depending on the model.

6. Record the Codes:

Write down the codes exactly as they appear. These codes can then be referenced against a list of Ford-specific DTCs to identify the problem with your vehicle.

Dashboard Odometer Trick

Another method you can try is the dashboard odometer trick, which may display the DTCs directly on the odometer. Here’s how you can attempt this:

1. Insert the Key into the Ignition:

Make sure the key is properly inserted into the ignition.

2. Press and Hold the Odometer Reset Button:

Locate the odometer reset button, which is usually a small button or knob on the dashboard. Press and hold this button.

3.Turn the Key to the 'On' Position:

While holding the odometer reset button, turn the key to the 'On' position. Do not start the engine.

4. Continue Holding the Odometer Reset Button:

Keep holding the button as the dashboard lights up. After a few seconds, the odometer should enter a diagnostic mode, and any stored DTCs may be displayed directly on the odometer screen.

5. Release the Odometer Reset Button:

Once the codes start to appear, you can release the odometer reset button. Write down any codes that appear.

6. Interpret the Codes:

Like with the key cycling technique, you will need to cross-reference these codes with a list of Ford-specific DTCs to determine the nature of the problem.

Limitations of These Methods

While the key cycling technique and the dashboard odometer trick can provide some insight into what’s wrong with your Ford, they have significant limitations:

Incomplete Data

These methods may not show all the diagnostic trouble codes, especially if there are multiple issues or more complex problems.

No Ability to Clear Codes

You won’t be able to clear the codes or reset the CEL using these methods.

No Live Data or Advanced Diagnostics

These methods do not provide live data or allow for advanced diagnostics like the Active Test or ECU Coding available with the ANCEL X7.

Conclusion

The ANCEL X7 Car Scanner is the ideal tool for keeping your Ford in top shape, offering advanced features like ECU coding and system-wide diagnostics. With ANCEL's commitment to quality, you're not just getting a tool—you're investing in a reliable brand. Get yours today and drive with confidence!

Recommended Similar Articles：

• What is Knock Sensor and Recognize Bad Knock Sensor Symptoms
• 11 Ways OBD2 Scanner Could Mess Up Your ECU (Even If It’s Rare, You Should Know)
• How to Reset ECU Without /with OBD Scanner
• How urgent is a vacuum leak? It could destroy your engine
• Is your car misfiring? 9 Symptoms of a bad engine control module