What are bi-directional scan tools? And how do they apply vehicle system control code reading and board diagnosis? Modern vehicles are equipped with many electronic systems that allow diagnosing your vehicle’s issues or problems well beyond simply listening to engine noises and inspecting visible damage with an ordinary scanner. However, with bi-directional scan tools, an advanced device that will help learn and communicate directly with the vehicle’s systems in order to quickly diagnose issues. In this article, we will introduce these scanners and explain their functions and importance in automotive diagnostics.
What is a Bi-directional System?
What is a bi-directional system, you might ask? Well, a bi-directional system is about communication in two directions. A bi-directional scanner system is somewhat like a walkie-talkie, meaning you can send data one way, then receive data the other way. The difference with a walkie-talkie is that you cannot do both at the same time. Now let’s see what a bi-directional scanner is.
What are Bi-directional Scan Tools?
Bi-directional scan tools are automotive diagnostic devices capable of both receiving data from an automotive system and sending control commands back to a vehicle’s onboard systems, thus aiding in more accurate problem reading or diagnosis than traditional code readers. Bi-directional scanner tools offer technicians more interaction for testing/diagnostic purposes.
Functions of Bi-directional Scan Tools
Bi-directional scan tools offer multiple functions beyond simply reading and clearing codes, including performing active tests, operating actuators, resetting modules and initializing new ones, adjusting vehicle parameters as needed, as well as reprogramming certain aspects of the vehicle’s software.
For example, automotive repair technicians can use bi-directional scanner tools to turn a car’s fuel pump on or off, adjust the throttle position, or perform real-time diagnostic tests on specific parts. The real-time interaction between the systems used on vehicles and the technicians’ use of these tools allows technicians to easily identify problems, verify repairs, and perform thorough diagnostic procedures.
Here are the main features and the breakdown of the roles and importance of bi-directional scanner tools in the automotive industry.
· Reading and Clearing Codes
In vehicle diagnostics, these bi-directional tools make an invaluable difference because they listen and respond in both directions between the ECUs. Their bi-directional dialogue makes this device truly unique in its kind!
Imagine you are trying to decipher what is wrong with your vehicle when the car’s “check engine” light comes on: any scanner can read the error codes generated by its ECU; and end of story, but with a bi-directional scan tool, however, not only can you read these error codes, but you can also clear them once a solution has been identified – pretty smart indeed?
· Live Data Reading
One of the unique features offered by a bi-directional scan tool is its ability to monitor live data on your vehicle’s systems. Imagine driving and your car behaves erratically from time to time, but your bi-directional scanner tool comes to the rescue by monitoring live data from various sensors in real time – helping to detect those tricky and intermittent problems by observing how it behaves under various circumstances.
· Active Tests
One of the biggest features of these tools is their ability to perform active tests. This means they can ask an ECU to control specific systems or parts for testing purposes, such as turning fuel pumps on and off or checking oxygen sensors! Yes, they really can!
· Module Reset/Programming
Advanced bi-directional devices offer much more than just repair capabilities; they also have the power to reset or initialize systems once repairs are done and to program or code new parts, making replacing sensors or control units simpler than ever.
Vehicle Parameter Adjustments
Bi-directional scan tools also allow you to easily customize certain settings of your car if you know how to use them. Changing when doors automatically lock, increasing or decreasing alarm sensitivity, or adjusting idle settings are among the many features offered by these tools. These are features that a classic scanner will not offer you.
Another Additional Function Offered by Bi-directional Scan Tools is:
Directional scanners or code readers are equipped with special features designed for specific car brands or models, ranging from resetting oil lights to assisting with brake bleeding to registering new batteries.
Simply put, with a bi-directional device, you get an in-depth view of the diagnostic view or health status of your vehicle. This type of tool acts as access to any automotive system, making it indispensable in today’s automotive repair and maintenance toolboxes.
Importance of Bi-directional Scan Tools in Vehicle Diagnostics
Bi-directional scan tools have become essential tools in today’s electronic vehicles, offering technicians a deeper understanding of the vehicle’s condition. Moreover, these scan tools also give technicians direct control to test various vehicle systems directly.
Bi-directional scan tools offer advanced features that not only enhance diagnostics or board diagnostics but also the accuracy of repairs, thereby reducing repeated issues and making it an essential tool for modern auto repair shops, and even DIY car owners can better understand and diagnose their problems well.
Types of Bi-directional Scan Tools
Bi-directional devices come in different shapes and sizes, from handheld units to larger, more robust systems. Your choice will depend on factors such as the scope of use, the types of vehicles regularly serviced, and budget considerations.
Popular types include comprehensive diagnostic systems, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi compatible devices, and manufacturer-specific tools. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Different Types of Bi-directional Scan Tools:
· Professional Grade Scan Tools:
Imagine a supercharged tool capable of chatting with all your car’s systems, not just the brain. Professional grade scan tools are the ultimate toolbox for automotive technicians. They can do everything from looking up error codes to programming new parts, pressing the reset button. Plus, they can speak the language of many cars, makes and models, whether from your local fleet or from foreign countries. The Autel Maxisys Elite diagnostic is in this category you might consider. And for more options, check out this article featuring the 11 Best Professional Bi-directional Scanner Tools here.
· DIY Grade Scan Tools:
So, you love tinkering with your car in your garage as a DIYer? The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool is for iPhone and Android and is a very popular choice among enthusiasts and DIY car owners. DIY grade scan tools like this are just what you need, as they have the right balance of being economical and having enough features to satisfy your inner mechanical desire. They may not connect to as many systems as professional systems, but they still have enough bi-directional control for a range of functions.
· Brand-Specific Scan Tools:
These types of bi-directional scanner tools are specifically designed to work with one brand or a small group of brands. It’s not my favorite, because what happens when you switch brands or if you own cars from different unsupported brands? However, I must say they often offer deeper and more precise control over the vehicle’s systems, and they give you in-depth and precise control over those specific systems, but remember their conversation lines won’t work on all cars.
· Compact Scan Tools:
If you are looking for a pocket-sized, simple-to-use, and straightforward bi-directional directional tool, then the Ancel BD310 2-in-1 OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner is a compact scanner but a versatile compact scan tool that covers you. They may not have all the features, but they remain simple and nonetheless allow you to have a bi-directional conversation with your car.
· Wireless Scan Tools:
The FIXD Professional OBD2 Bluetooth Scan Tool is made for you if you want a low-end portable tool that connects your car and your phone or tablet so you can perform your scanning on your mobile. The main advantage of these wireless code readers is that they are affordable and user-friendly. So, basically, they use Bluetooth or WiFi for a flexible and portable connection. Some even allow you to control things bi-directionally.
· Heavy-Duty Scan Tools:
If trucks and buses are your thing, then the Launch X431 V+ Diagnostic Tool should be your best bet. These types of heavy-duty tools are designed to take on rugged big trucks and are built for the hard knocks of larger vehicle environments, and they come with unique special features specific to those heavy systems.
And there you have it, all these tools can communicate with your car in two ways, but each has its own vibe, catering to your needs, your technical know-how, your budget, and the type of vehicles you work on. It’s about choosing the right tool for your job.
Conclusion
As vehicles continue to evolve and become more technologically advanced, their diagnostic tools or code readers must also evolve. And that’s where bi-directional scan tools represent a groundbreaking advancement in automotive board diagnostics that allow auto mechanics, technicians, and even DIYers to interact directly with their car’s systems to perform active tests that provide unprecedented insight into general vehicle problems and its overall health status. Understanding the purpose and benefits of the bi-directional scanner tool is imperative for anyone involved in the auto repair industry.