What Does a Bidirectional Scanner Do

You may have observed when you take your vehicle to an auto shop, the first thing they do is hook up your car with an automatic diagnostic tool. This tool shows the mechanic the exact place to look, and suddenly after a few fixes, your Check Engine Light goes off. That diagnostic tool is a bidirectional scanner used for diagnosing modern vehicles. If you want to know about this device, read this article.

What is a Bi-directional Scanner

Vehicle engineers have designed and programmed scanning devices with the ability to request information or perform specific tests and functions. Bidirectional control performs various tests like functional, actuator, system, and inspection tests. Other included controls are re-initialization and reprograming controls.

A modern vehicle scan tool is a bidirectional device that sends information to and receives information from the vehicle control modules. Advanced scan tools actuate relays, coils, and injectors. They further perform system tests.

You may have encountered different types of scanners on the market, but bidirectional scanners are the latest development. Traditional scanners only take information from the scanner, but bi-directional scanners can also input data. Furthermore, they command the vehicle on what to do.

Bidirectional scanners are essential to mechanics. Sometimes you will need to give the vehicle specific instructions to understand the nature of the problem. Another name for a bi-directional scanner is a coding scanner or engine scanner. Here is what is the best two -way scanning tool.

What a Bidirectional Scanner Does

Unlike a basic scanner, a bidirectional scanner does more than read the OBD’s inputs. It can test outputs in these areas,

• Door lock systems
• Engine function
• Battery health status
• Braking system and ABS
• Oxygen, air pressure, and temperature sensors

Two things happen when you run a bidirectional scanner; you get an error code or an indication that you found no errors. Advanced scanners can detect systems that may fail soon. Notwithstanding, a bidirectional scanner will not fix what is wrong with your car but will guide you on where to check.

Almost every specialist uses Bidirectional scanners. It is connected to a vehicle's PC and sends diagnostic results to the expert’s machine, which then evaluates the condition of your vehicle and tells you what is wrong. Should you prefer to analyze your vehicle without taking it to a mechanic repair shop, a personal bi-directional device will help. The device will cost you up to $800 but will be worth the investment.

Benefits of using a Bidirectional Scanner

A personal bi-directional scanner has excellent benefits. The tool gives you explicit problems that you need to sort out. Some of these issues are simple DIY hacks, while others may need expert attention. You get to save money in the long run.

Simple and readable graphics

Most bi-directional scanners are handheld and display data with designs and graphs. The device displays the code showing you a list of problems you must work on.

Saves time

Analyzing a car’s problems from system after system may take a lot of time. Using a bi-directional scanner allows you to oversee time productivity and helps you find the exact issue rapidly and precisely. The apparatus searches the vehicle from its engine to the transmission system and offers comprehensive feedback on the exact issues. This prompts getting the issue sorted rapidly.

Relevant:CAN ONE CODE READER BE USED FOR CARS AND TRUCKS?

Figures out the nature of the mechanical issue

While an experienced mechanic can find the exact problem instantly, a bidirectional scanner helps identify whether the issue is nonstop or continuous. There are various reasons for discontinuous issues.

How to Use a Bi-Directional Scan Tool

A bidirectional scanner will help you diagnose car problems anytime the Check Engine Light pops up. It will help you take better maintenance of your car. Once you get a bi-directional scanner on your sleeve, you may take time before visiting an auto repair shop.

Step 1

The first step is to plug the tool into your vehicle on the OBD2 port under the steering and turn the vehicle on. The tool will automatically turn on and connect to the onboard computer to read the CEL.

Step 2

At this point, the scanner reads information from your vehicle while displaying it on the screen. To access the error codes information, navigate across the menu to the system or actuator test. The procedure on the menu may be different based on varying models.

Step 3

Access the information you need on the scanner. You may do DIY fixes or visit a mechanic if the issues appear more complex.

Best Bi-directional Scanners in the Market

Ancel DS700 Bi-directional ECU Coding

Ancel DS700 is a professional bidirectional scanner and one of the best in the auto industry. The scanner is based on the android 10 operating system and is made with high-end diagnostic intelligence. This is your ideal scanner and one in most auto repair shops or vehicle dealerships.

Its fully upgraded software and intelligent design do not disappoint. The tool features professional repairs and performs fixes and comprehensive tests.

Features of Ancel DS700 include;

• ECU coding
• Wi-Fi- Bluetooth compatible
• Multi-language
• Bi-directional
• 4GB Ram and 64 GB storage capacity
• Android 10.0

Ancel V6 Bi-Directional Scan Tool

Ancel V6 Bi-directional scanner is one of the most efficient OBD2 scanners. It has a free upgrade option and comes with advanced features that you will only get with scanners of more than $800. Key features of this tool include; a bi-directional scan, auto key immobilizer, OE level full system diagnostics and free update with no extra subscription fee.

The scanners offer superior hardware and live data stream, which is top class. The scanner features an 8” HD touchscreen and a strong battery 8000mAh rechargeable battery.

Compatible Vehicles

OBD2 vehicle scanning was adopted as a standard in 1996. All vehicles manufactured after this year come fitted with an OBD2 port and uses standard protocols with scanning technology. Further, the OBD2 port features a 16-pin ‘D’ shaped connector, as found in most vehicles. Any car that complies with the OBD2 protocol will work effectively with the bidirectional scanners.

Conclusion

Learning how bidirectional scanners work will help better maintain your vehicle. It will save you some bucks, which you would have otherwise used in repair shops. However, if you own a traditional scanner and would like to upgrade to a bidirectional scanner, check various types of these scanners on the Ancel website. Choossing the Right OBD II Scanner for your need.

FAQS

What is a bidirectional scanner?

A bidirectional scanner is a diagnostic tool that can retrieve information from and send commands to a vehicle's control modules.

What are the benefits of using a bidirectional scanner?

Using a bidirectional scanner allows for precise problem diagnosis, saves time by quickly identifying issues, and provides potential DIY solutions. It also displays data in a user-friendly manner and helps determine the nature of mechanical problems.

How do you use a bidirectional scan tool?

To use a bidirectional scan tool, plug it into the vehicle's OBD2 port, turn on the vehicle, and access the tool's menu to retrieve error codes or perform system tests. Based on the obtained information, take appropriate actions or seek professional assistance if required.

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