How to diagnose a car yourself

Car diagnostics: how to do it yourself

Many car enthusiasts can give valuable advice on how to diagnose a car without resorting to the services of specialists. You can diagnose your car using special devices; this will significantly reduce the risk that you will be deceived when buying a car. And diagnostics of the car by the driver himself will allow you to significantly save on service intervals, dynamic errors and much more.

Computer diagnostics of a car

Computer diagnostics of a car involves reading a series of errors to assess the overall condition of the car by interrogating the electrical systems.

The need for such diagnostics is due to the following factors:

• to assess the condition of the car upon purchase;
• identify the causes of the “check engine” error;
• to assess the extent of service work.

To diagnose a car using a computer, you will need to choose from:

To make such a diagnosis yourself, you need to know the following:

• where is the diagnostic connector located in the car;
• skills in handling a device equipped with software;
• how to work with information databases on the Internet;
• be able to decipher error codes and abbreviations.

Car diagnostics using a scanner

Almost all service stations and workshops have diagnostic instruments such as scanners or testers . Most often, car diagnostics are carried out through:

A diagnostic code scanner is a microprocessor-based device that reads information codes from the memory of the electronic control unit. To do this, it is connected directly to the diagnostic connector. The scanner allows you to do the following:

• decipher codes;
• read error codes from memory;
• classify codes into current and established;
• interpret the electronic block of current values ​​​​from sensors;
• activate some elements of the automotive system;
• rewrite coefficients in the block.

But a motor tester is a universal diagnostic scanner that can be used to measure the operating parameters of an internal combustion engine. Information is measured using sensors and probes that may be included with the scanner.

The motor scanner can measure the following parameters:

• oil temperature;
• battery voltage;
• frequency of crankshaft movements;
• generator and starter current;
• ignition system circuit voltage;
• pressure and vacuum of the intake manifold, etc.

The testers are equipped with digital oscilloscopes , so they are highly accurate data meters.

Is it possible to diagnose a car using a smartphone?

Often, a car enthusiast is checked for the technical condition of a car using a tablet or mobile phone that contains a special program. You can find a video on the Internet where a tablet or phone is used as an on-board computer and shows accurate engine speed indicators, fuel temperature and consumption, and much more. These gadgets can be used not only as sensors, but also as scanners for full car diagnostics if they are connected to a special wireless device.

Such a device needs to be connected to the standard diagnostic connector on the car, which is most often located on the left side of the steering column, then via Bluetooth it begins to transmit error codes and other data to the engine ECU. In addition to identifying error codes, using your phone you can get their full description and decoding. This diagnostic method can also be used while the car is moving; the device can easily read information from the control unit.

So, how can you correctly diagnose yourself using the same smartphone or tablet ? Everything is very simple:

• connect the adapter to the car connector;
• connect it to your tablet or phone via Bluetooth;
• activate the appropriate software.

This diagnostic method is suitable for owners of almost all cars under 20 years old. As for brands, this is how you can diagnose Toyota, Kia, Hyundai, etc. cars. But some VAZ cars (for example, 2109) are not equipped with a special port, then you can use a DATA cable instead of an adapter. It will not be difficult to purchase it, since the range of such cables is huge. It is very important to choose it depending on the make of the car. In addition, diagnostic nuances depend on the program used.

Programs for car diagnostics

Some car enthusiasts on specialized forums recommend using the Torque Pro program . Its capabilities are:

• with its help you can monitor all vehicle parameters online;
• the ability to carry out full diagnostics with or without a GPS tracker;
• The program runs on the Android OS platform.

Some programs have the ability to automatically send SMS with error codes, which you can provide to a service station for car repair.

If you have an old phone running Windows Mobile and supports Java, we recommend installing the Check-Engine program . It can perform the following functions:

• display engine operating parameters online;
• decrypt and remove errors from the block memory;
• send SMS with error codes and vehicle malfunctions.

So, as you can see, with only three components (a phone or tablet, a special program installed and an adapter), we can conduct a full diagnostic of our car.

Carrying out computer diagnostics of a car yourself is not only easy, but also very interesting. You can only use your phone to identify any errors in the car when purchasing and ask for a discount, citing their presence. In addition, you will protect yourself from fraud when making a transaction with a used car.

Mechanical diagnostics of cars

You can do car diagnostics yourself without using a telephone or other wonders of modern technology. For example, you can check the car for acoustic noise, so you can analyze the state of the connections when the engine is running. In this case, it is worth taking into account the difference in the rotation speeds of both engine shafts. And remember that the camshaft rotation speed is half that of the crankshaft. Malfunctions can be of two types:

• timing faults;
• in the cylinder-piston group.

Preparation and carrying out diagnostics

First you need to carry out preparatory activities:

• the engine itself and its systems are regulated;
• all mounted units are checked;
• check the fastenings. They may be the source of the noise.

To make your job easier, divide the noise into zones to make it easier to identify the source of the problem. A car's suspension can be diagnosed using a stethoscope equipped with a mechanical sensor.

To better listen to the desired area, take a pressure tube made of wood. Listen to the sample first to get more reliable noise information. Disconnect the power steering pump, generator or pump, remove the fastening belts. You need to carefully listen to the load in the friction units and compare these sounds with those you hear in new units.

You need to listen to a car engine when completely cold or completely warm and at different speeds. To correctly analyze the noise, change the speed with different dynamics. In order to determine the increase in the thermal gap in the valve, remember that there is a characteristic clicking noise at idle. If the thermal gap is adjusted correctly, then the source of the malfunction will be uneven wear of the surfaces that touch each other.

Characteristics of sounds

Sometimes, when the engine is started cold, a rattling noise may appear , which stops when the engine warms up. Basically, this is normal, but if the characteristic sound does not stop, this indicates a malfunction in the plunger pair of the pusher. It signals wear of the valve guides, which is confirmed by worn seals. If the sound is sharp enough, it means that the gap between the socket in the block head and the tap pusher is large enough. As the engine warms up, the sound slowly disappears.

Moreover, this sound is not very dangerous, but a dull sound, the frequency of which is two times less than the frequency of the crankshaft, indicates that the camshaft bearings need to be replaced . It can be clearly heard when the engine warms up at idle speed. There is no need to be afraid, but check the timing belt as soon as possible.

If you hear a faint ringing sound, this may indicate a large gap between the piston skirt and the cylinder wall. This is not too scary, so don’t put off repairs for too long.

What sounds are considered dangerous?

Particular attention should be paid to the loud knocking sound from the CPG. This may indicate a breakdown in the connection between the connecting rod and the crankpin. As the speed increases, the knocking intensifies and goes away when the cylinder is disconnected from the ignition system. If you have a diesel engine, you can slightly loosen the injector nut to shut off the fuel supply . This problem is most often a consequence of improper operation of the car.

If you hear a dull knock, there is a large gap in the main bearings on the crankshaft. If it increases when the engine is quickly lowered, it means that the oil pressure is below normal and there may be serious problems.

Popping noises indicate loose chains or problems with the chain mechanism. They are heard more strongly at idle or with a sharp reduction in speed.

As you can see, some car problems can be identified by listening to certain zones, and this is not so difficult to do.

However, of course, computer diagnostics will be more complete and reliable. It is worth adding that computer diagnostics at a service station costs a small amount of money. Why spend it if you can do everything yourself, with only a phone and a special adapter on hand. And the money saved is better spent on yourself or on car accessories.

Car diagnostics via laptop

Electronic devices and corresponding programs provide many opportunities for analyzing, diagnosing a car, and identifying the causes of improper operation of the car engine. In this article, we will look at how to diagnose a car using a laptop with your own hands, what is needed for this, an algorithm of actions, and what problems may arise.

Car diagnostics via laptop

Before you learn how to diagnose a car engine yourself, you need to know in what cases to carry out such work, what it reveals, and learn to read error codes. Modern advanced version programs for car repair shops provide information on even minor deviations from the optimal operation of the car’s engine. In addition to diagnosing the internal combustion engine, computer diagnostics via a laptop also shows what malfunctions exist in the transmission system and chassis of a complex vehicle design. You can quickly learn to do such work yourself.

A newbie to car diagnostics can do the following:

• reduce and increase idle speed (idl);
• adjust the fuel supply or, scientifically, adjust the lambda characteristics;
• if the program is an extended version, with additional plugins installed (something that expands the functionality), then you can program the car electronics interface;
• adjust auto-check in case of existing malfunctions or observed deviations in operation.

In what cases is it necessary to make a diagnosis:

1. When icons or inscriptions light up on the car’s instrument panel.
2. Incorrect operation of the components and mechanisms of the machine structure is observed.
3. After purchasing a used car, to configure it to the optimal mode and identify any faults.
4. After purchasing a used car, to configure it to the optimal mode and identify any faults. Check the injector, chassis (chassis) and transmission unit.
5. They check according to a schedule, for example, once a year. The so-called preventive examination. Allows minor deviations to be identified in advance. As a rule, this is done using a laptop, but it can also be done via a tablet or phone.
6. They also check to check service workers, thereby protecting against repairs of serviceable parts.

If you don't have a laptop, check out this option: Jumper EZbook 3 Pro 13.3" laptop Intel Apollo Lake N3450 6G DDR3 RAM IPS screen 1920 x 1080 notebook 64GB eMMC with M2 SSD Slot.

Car diagnostics via a laptop is considered the most effective.
Specific requirements for when it’s definitely time for diagnostics in your garage or service station:

1. When to check the suspension:
   • If, upon visual inspection of the front wheel tires, uneven one-sided wear is observed;
   • If a noise appears that was not there before;
   • The ABS system operates earlier;
   • If the steering play has increased (steering wheel free play);
2. When to check the injector:
   • If fuel consumption has increased;
   • If the car’s internal combustion engine takes a long time to heat up;
   • If the car’s internal combustion engine does not start immediately;
   • If the engine power has decreased;
   • If there is noise in the engine.
3. When to check the transmission part of a car:
   • If it is impossible to turn on one of the speeds;
   • If twitching, jerking, vibrations appear;
   • When changing gearbox speeds, slipping occurs;
   • If fuel consumption has increased (this may be due not only to improper operation of the internal combustion engine, but also to transmission parts);
   • If there is an oil leak from the automatic transmission.

Software (software), Soft reads all fault codes of the control unit (CU), will analyze the diagnostics of the operation of sensors and regulators, oil and throttle valve.

Is it possible to install a mass switch in a car with an injector?

Necessary equipment for engine diagnostics

To successfully diagnose a car via a laptop, you need to comply with some requirements. There are many testing devices today. Specialized software is produced for each make and model of car. Although, there are software and adapters that are suitable for various brands of cars. First of all, the driver needs to find the place where the diagnostic device (scanner) is connected. This could be under the glove compartment, near the steering wheel, etc. Today you can buy a scanner inexpensively. The scanner connects to the control unit through a connector and reads various combinations of errors. The scanner makes it possible to obtain complete information from sensors and vehicle control systems. The scanning device will analyze the performance of all critical components of the car structure.

Before purchasing a scanner, be sure to make sure that it fits the required make and model of car. Of course, it will not show the oil level in the engine and in the box, and will not check the ball joint, but it will provide information on many other parameters.

If you don't have a scanner

If there is no scanner for car diagnostics, then you can carry out troubleshooting work without it. For this you need:

1. Laptop or computer.
2. Adapter. It connects to the diagnostic connector. Also purchased depending on the make and model of the car. One of the most common adapters is the K-Line adapter. It is suitable for many makes and models of passenger vehicles. The adapter comes with a cord for connecting the connector of the machine and laptop, and a CD with software.
3. Software. There are also many diagnostic programs, as well as devices. There are universal programs with which you can do do-it-yourself diagnostics of cars of different brands (domestic and imported). There are programs only for a specific machine.

Software for car diagnostic devices

Wifi and bluetooth devices

The advantages of working with such adapters are the ability to synchronize with the car wirelessly. Convenient to diagnose while driving.

Working with such wireless devices is not difficult:

1. 1. Insert into the connector in the car to connect the scanner.
   2. Turn on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth on the device you want to connect (laptop, tablet, phone).
   3. After connecting the car and the device, run the diagnostic program.

One of the most common scanner-adapters is the ELM 327 scanner. It can also be easily ordered from Aliexpress. The main thing is, before purchasing, look at the list of which cars they can diagnose.

Devices running the Android operating system (Android

For devices with the Android operating system, you will need to install applications for car diagnostics. According to reviews and comments, the Torque Pro application is installed the most. Reviews often say that this application provides accurate data.

Torque Pro functionality:

• the parameters of the scanned vehicle are immediately visible on the screen;
• diagnostics occurs completely;
• The GPS track allows you to record actions, which is very convenient (allows you to see what was scanned before).

The program interface is clear and convenient even for a beginner.

Devices running the Windows Mobile (Windows Mobile) or Java operating system (Java)

For tablets and phones with Windows and Java operating systems, the most recommended application is Check-Engine.

This application not only reads the errors found, but also deciphers these error codes.

After correcting the errors, the Check Engine utility will erase old errors from the control unit’s memory. To save and generate a report, the application shows tips on how to make a report and send an SMS to a specialist.

Recommendations for self-diagnosis:

1. Read how car diagnostics are done, what types there are.
2. Decide on purchasing a scanner or adapter. Namely, find out in advance whether it is suitable for this car.
3. Find out where the connector for connecting the scanning electronic device is located.
4. Decide on software. There are extended paid versions of the programs that provide more information. And there are basic versions of programs with which you can find out the main faults and error codes.
5. Do not erase error codes until the problems are resolved.
6. If you don't know what to do, don't do it. Study the topic or contact specialists.

After watching this video, you can learn how to diagnose a car yourself.

Training in working with the ELM 327 automotive scanner.

Which is better, ELM 327 wifi or bluetooth.

Car diagnostics at home

It's no secret that we live in the age of computer technology. The development of the automotive industry has led to the fact that every car is now equipped with a computer system that controls everything that happens inside this complex mechanism. That is why, to thoroughly check the serviceability of a car, a visual inspection is not enough; computer diagnostics of electronic equipment is needed. Such a check can be done at any car service center, and if possible, even independently, using your own personal computer.

Do-it-yourself car diagnostics via a laptop will save your time, nerves, money, give you the opportunity to personally check a used vehicle before purchasing, find out the reason for the bad check without a trip to the mechanic, and monitor the quality of the services provided by the service.

In the past, computer diagnostics of a car was considered an incomprehensible, complex process and was trusted only to experienced specialists from large auto repair shops. Now the situation has changed, and more and more motorists are choosing to check their vehicles themselves. The only disadvantage of this choice is the price of special equipment, but the cost of purchasing it pays off quite quickly.

When should you diagnose a car using a laptop?

Car diagnostics using a laptop is a prerequisite for safe, comfortable use of the vehicle. Problems with electronics that are not detected in time can lead to breakdowns at the most inopportune moment. A malfunction of a small sensor will not be visually noticeable, but the car will refuse to start or stall. A preventative check will help avoid such situations.

Your car requires inspection if the following signs are detected:

1. The wheels wear unevenly, extraneous sounds are heard when driving, and the ABS system is not working properly - in this case, it is necessary to check the suspension.
2. Gasoline consumption has increased, engine power has decreased, speed is jumping - you cannot do without checking the injector.
3. It is difficult to switch speed modes, there is slippage, the car jerks - you should test the transmission.

The program recognizes ECU fault codes and analyzes the operation of control sensors.

A set of necessary tools and devices for diagnostics

Many people wonder what is needed to diagnose a car. To do this, you will need a laptop, tablet or smartphone with access to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. A special diagnostic program is installed on the device. Next, you will need an adapter, for example, “Smart Scan Tool”. In case problems arise with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, prepare a data cable for direct connection to your computer. To decrypt the received data, you will need access to the Internet. It’s good to also have diagnostic instructions on hand, this will help avoid mistakes.

Devices and software

It is most convenient to use a laptop with Bluetooth; all the most famous scanners are suitable for it. If your laptop does not have wireless access, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth adapters will solve the problem. Moreover, it is better to choose not the cheapest model, since budget devices have little power and cannot provide a stable connection.

The scanner plays the role of an adapter and transmits information from the car computer to a stationary device. Professional types of scanners are usually compatible with only one or several brands of cars, but adapters that work with many brands at once, such as, for example, the “Smart Scan Tool”, are more suitable for home use. This scanner is suitable for almost all cars produced in 1996. Its use involves monitoring the most important sensors, finding and eliminating errors, as well as the ability to configure all electronic components of the machine.

Smart Scan Tool

The diagnostic program most often comes complete with an adapter on a special disk, but if necessary, it can be found on the Internet. It’s not difficult to figure out how to connect the program; even a beginner can handle it. Using the program, you can configure the initial parameters of the system, decipher trouble codes, remove the error after removing its cause, and keep a log of maintenance and repairs. Most often, motorists resort to programs such as Uniscan, Vagcom, Vag Tool, which are suitable for diagnosing cars from all major manufacturers, as well as Motor Tester for cars from the domestic automobile industry.

Using Android

To check via Android, most car enthusiasts use the Torque Pro program. Judging by the reviews on car enthusiast forums, it gives quite reliable results when diagnosing system components. This software also has an intuitive interface.

Via windows mobile or java

The most famous program is Check-Engine. This application, in addition to reading errors, also offers their decoding, as well as deleting them from the ECU memory. The application has tips for the user, it is possible to create a file with a report and send it in one message to the diagnostician.

Check-Engine program window

Now you need to move on to a detailed study of how to diagnose a car yourself. Step-by-step instruction:

1. Prepare all the necessary devices and install them in the car.
2. Turn on the computer device (laptop, tablet, smartphone) with the diagnostic program installed on it.
3. Find the diagnostic connector, it is usually located near the steering column.
4. Connect the scanner to the connector, wait until the connection icon lights up.
5. Check for Bluetooth connection and start pairing devices. Once pairing is complete, the ready-to-use indicator will light up.
6. Open the diagnostic program and send the vehicle data into it. If the program works correctly, it will generate a connection signal and begin processing data.
7. Manage the scan from your computer by issuing configuration and correction commands and reading data.
8. Save scan results to a file for professional verification using specialized databases.

Expert recommendations

Do-it-yourself computer diagnostics of a car is a simple procedure, and every motorist can handle it with the right equipment. Before starting your first self-test, seek advice from an experienced technician and familiarize yourself with these tips:

1. Be sure to read the instruction manual for all devices you use.
2. Choose a data cable that is as short as possible; a cable that is too long may hinder the scanner's operation.
3. Connect and configure the adapter and laptop without turning on the car's ignition; turn it on when everything is already configured, otherwise you may damage the on-board computer.

We hope that these tips were useful to you and you will carry out your next car diagnostics yourself.

A computer is the most common tool for car diagnostics nowadays. It's easy to take with you on the road. Many problems that may arise along the way are resolved immediately, without leaving the salon. You just need to connect your electronic friend to the electronic control unit (ECU) connector on the bottom of the panel.

But a personal computer is bulky - where is it in the car? Laptop? That's not an option either. Charging its battery only takes an hour and a half. In addition, the wires will get in the way, which is an additional inconvenience.

But what then? Smartphone! Now it's in almost everyone's pocket.

Diagnosing a car using a smartphone is no more difficult than playing Monopoly or playing solitaire. A special program (software) is also required, only more serious. Install and go.

What are the conditions:

1. You need to know the basics of computer diagnostics.
2. Have an Elm 327 remote adapter with Bluetooth.
3. Enter the Android operating system on your smartphone with any diagnostic program for the car.

That's all. If you have a smartphone and a diagnostic program, no outside help is needed.

You can carry out diagnostics yourself. What does it look like?

Before your trip you should:

• buy and install a diagnostic program on your smartphone, display it in the menu;
• buy Elm 327 adapter.

Then act according to the circumstances. Nothing bad may happen, but insurance has never bothered anyone. Some kind of failure is just hypothetically possible: power has dropped, the engine runs intermittently, the “Cheek Engine” light comes on, and so on. You don't know the reasons. But you already have a very good hint.

Sequence of further actions:

1. Park the car on the side of the road (engine running).
2. Take out the elm327 adapter.
3. Insert into the ECU connector of your car (bottom of the control panel, to the right of the steering column). A blinking light on the adapter will indicate that the connection has occurred and data is being read from the controller (ECU).
4. When the light stops blinking and lights up steadily (at this point all parameters will be read), set up Bluetooth on your smartphone:
   - find the already installed diagnostic program in the phone menu,
   - enter the program menu,
   - look, read and select the parameters that seem you are currently suspicious.

Software selection

Currently, the most popular program is Torque for Android application. It allows you to quickly troubleshoot current problems. With Torque, you can predict force majeure and learn how to deal with it in the garage, without moving.

Main features:

1. Reading and displaying sensor readings online on the smartphone display:
   - speed,
   - crankshaft revolutions,
   - oil pressure,
   - coolant temperature, air temperature,
   - brake system.
2. Reading and erasing ECU errors.
3. Identification of the controller of this vehicle, as well as additional parameter data.
4. Saving dynamic data about all routes, the ability to dearchive and analyze them.
5. Visual options for familiarizing yourself with information:
   - digital report,
   - graphs,
   - dials.
6. Choosing a method of signaling a critical situation (sound, light).

There are plenty of functions in the Torque program. In addition, they can be constantly updated and added via the Internet in your smartphone.

What's so great about a smartphone with Torque? Comfort and omnipotence - this is what you feel for the first time when you contact a previously unknown technology.

Modern tendencies

Mobile car diagnostics are extremely convenient. You are not tied to the car. The only limitation is Bluetooth or Wi-F on a portable device and their range. The functionality is almost the same as that of a regular computer. Except that the monitor is smaller and the font is not so distinguishable.

Car diagnostics via phone is a completely logical know-how. Everyone has a phone now. In difficult times, it is easiest to use this device. Modifications don't matter. Whether it’s a smartphone or an iPhone, there’s no difference. Only in options and design.

Software

1. DashCommand
   Application for diagnostics on iPhone.
   Professional program. For an ordinary driver, it is of interest in the sense of studying the dynamics of his car (engine, gearbox) on the route. Sensor readings are recorded at every moment. All parameters are read via Obd2. Automatic reset of controller errors.
2. EOBD Facile
   Option is similar, but with fewer capabilities. In any case, the main things (speed, revolutions, coolant temperature, brakes, etc.) can be viewed and partially adjusted. This diagnostic application for iPhone is not expensive and generally meets average needs.
3. Android
   Unparalleled application. Used on both computers and phones. The potential is huge. Android OS provides the right to interact with all diagnostic programs existing in the world online.

How to connect to Android from a tablet or laptop

The connection diagram is standard: computer – adapter – car ECU.

The peculiarity of a wired (not remote) connection via USB is that the Elm327 adapter, in addition to the obd connector for the ECU, must also have a usb connector for connecting to a laptop or tablet.

In addition to the adapter, you also need:

For full access to the Android OS, you need to buy or download Root rights on the Internet.

Conclusion

Having mastered car diagnostics using a mobile phone, you will relieve yourself of a lot of problems associated with the operation of your equipment. No matter where you find yourself in trouble, you can find a way out of minor technical troubles without leaving the salon, simply by taking out your smartphone. But in order for it to be so simple, you need to study for a long time!

Andrey Goncharov, Expert in the “Engine Repair” section

We recommend that you familiarize yourself with vehicle diagnostics using a mobile phone. The video shows the diagnostic process on a mobile phone.

How to diagnose a car engine

An article about how to diagnose a car engine. Principles, methods and subtleties of the process. At the end of the article there is a video about independent computer diagnostics of a car.

When is engine diagnostics necessary?

It is best to monitor the operation of the systems constantly; special equipment is available for sale for this purpose. Also, machines should be regularly subjected to professional diagnostics in a workshop or, when knowledge and skills are sufficient, on their own.

An urgent check of the motor is necessary if:

• the engine warms up slowly;
• the system regularly experiences failures;
• power drops;
• fuel consumption has increased;
• difficulties arise when starting the engine;
• exhausts are black, white or gray;
• oil consumption has increased;
• there was a burning smell in the exhaust gases;
• extraneous knocks and noises appeared.

Problems can be diagnosed in two ways - visual and auditory examination or computer diagnostics. And it is best to combine both methods.

What is better: do it yourself or go to a salon

Of course, professional inspection and repair is always preferable, since a specialist will cope with the tasks much better than even an experienced car enthusiast.

And only a small percentage of workshops have real professionals on their staff who have undergone special training, including the skills of computer checking a car.

Therefore, you should be especially careful when choosing a diagnostic center and, having confidence in its integrity and professionalism, regularly take the car for a deep check of all systems.

And what the pseudo-experts are proposing can be done by any car owner who has a more or less tolerable understanding of how the engine works. To do this, it is enough to acquire the same equipment that any would-be mechanic has.

4 reasons to buy diagnostic equipment

Computer diagnostics of the engine yourself

Automakers are strenuously trying to protect the owner from “unnecessary” information by removing sensors and devices that are unnecessary according to their concepts. It seems that everything is correct - the car should be checked at the dealership and after paying a certain amount. Perhaps in some places such a system is acceptable, but the Russian car owner prefers to independently monitor the operation of his car. The reasons for this are very different, starting with old habits and ending with a cramped financial situation. And the reluctance to be deceived by a dishonest mechanic is also a convincing argument.

To carry out diagnostics yourself, you do not need to have a set of professional equipment. It is enough to acquire a functional and inexpensive device for special purposes.

A device that has a universal connector for connecting to OBD-2 and transmitting data to a computer, tablet or smartphone. For the system to work, you just need to connect the adapter to the OBD connector in the car and download the required program to your mobile device.

The adapter displays all data about the engine status on a smartphone (which is very convenient). The screen displays both basic information (program code, block number, ECU code, etc.) and operating parameters, ranging from coolant temperature to voltmeter readings, which automakers have abolished, deciding that the average motorist has no use for such data .

When choosing an adapter, you should pay attention to what program on your phone/PC it requires and how versatile this device is. Many of them even have ADC channels designed for professionals.

On-board computer

Modern cars are equipped with standard on-board computers, which are positioned as diagnostic. But basically this is a weak resemblance to real diagnostic CDs. Therefore, if you want to know about everything that happens under the hood, you will have to acquire a highly focused device.

The advantage of BC is that it can be used to track parameters and changes during movement. The devices are designed in such a way that they are easy to operate while driving.

When choosing an on-board computer for a car with a carburetor engine, you should make sure that it fits a car of this type. It is better to pay attention to domestically produced products; often even BCs developed for new foreign cars can be installed on old-style carburetor cars. You should also check whether the kit includes instructions with a decoding of the code signals.

Diagnostic scanner

It is with their help that dubious professionals most often carry out car diagnostics. A small professional device at an average price will tell the owner the same thing as a mechanic at a service station, and maybe more.

The information is displayed on the screen in encrypted form, but instructions with decoding are included with the device. To be absolutely sure, you should check this before purchasing.

The bulk of scanners are intended for new foreign cars, so you should check whether a particular model is suitable for a domestic car.

Connecting and using all the devices listed above does not present any difficulties. Unless it is advisable to install the on-board computer at a service center if you are not well versed in all the intricacies.

Visual and auditory diagnostics of engines

It is not always possible to resort to computer diagnostics, and often this is not required. You can notice a problem by listening to your iron friend or examining it.

Carburetor engine

In carburetor engines, fuel is supplied by suction through the carburetor, rather than injection, as in injection engines.

Main problems with carburetor engines:

The car won't start

Causes:

• dead battery;
• starter malfunction.
  In both cases, the crankshaft will not work.
  If it rotates, then the cause of a “dead” engine may be:
• lack of spark;
• failures in the process of supplying fuel to the carburetor (the reason is most likely a malfunction of the fuel pump);
• Excessive fuel supply, resulting in flooded spark plugs.

Increased oil consumption

Causes:

• seals are worn out (crankshaft seals, valve gasket, camshaft seal) resulting in oil leakage;
• the crankcase ventilation is clogged, so increased pressure is formed in the engine system, which helps to force the oil through the gaskets;
• the piston rings are coked or sagged after excessive load, which also leads to an increase in pressure and squeezing out the oil mixture;
• piston rings are worn out;
• cylinders and/or rings are worn out; in this case, a major overhaul of the propulsion system will be required.

Poor engine performance

Main reasons:

• uneven operation of the fuel pump;
• the size of the gap between the contacts of the breaker does not meet the requirements, for example, as a result of wear;
• nozzle clogged;
• spark plugs failed;
• there were problems in the functioning of high-voltage wires;
• foreign air enters the carburetor;
• problems with the operation of the solenoid valve.

Exhaust gases are black

The cause is a carburetor failure or excessively rich fuel.

Exhausts have a bluish tint

The most likely reason is the presence of oil in the combustion chamber. To determine if there is an oil leak, you need to remove and inspect the spark plugs. If no oily leaks are observed, then the problem is that the valve caps are worn out.

Knocking noises under increased engine loads (during acceleration, afterburner, etc.)

This phenomenon is a sign of detonating, that is, exploding rather than burning fuel. The reason is refueling with low-quality fuel and abundant carbon deposits in the combustion chamber.

Injection engine

Unlike a carburetor engine, in an injection engine the fuel is supplied by injection under pressure (hence the second name of the engine - injection). This method of fuel supply increases vehicle performance and helps reduce fuel consumption.

Jerking while driving, uneven engine operation, black exhaust gases

Deviations indicate a malfunction of the air flow sensor.

The car won't start

Causes:

• failure of one or more elements of the injection system;
• sensor malfunction;
• damage to the insulating layer on isolated elements of the system;
• loose connections between plugs, negative wires, etc.;
• incorrectly positioned harnesses.

The engine runs unevenly

It often happens that the car seems to start, but its performance leaves much to be desired - constant interruptions, the engine stalls, the car does not start on the first try.

Causes:

• the fuel pump is faulty;
• the air filter is dirty;
• Injector nozzles are faulty or dirty.

You should also check the readings of the temperature sensor and crankshaft sensor for deviations in the output data from the norm.

Diesel engine

Unlike gasoline, diesel is not as susceptible to breakdowns and wear. Most often, minor parts fail, and with careful, careful operation, a diesel engine will last for many years without any serious breakdowns.

It is enough to carry out diagnostics 1-2 times a year, preferably while preparing the car for the winter and summer seasons. It is better to entrust an in-depth analysis to specialists, but the main problems can be detected independently.

The process of checking diesel engines, like gasoline engines, can be divided into two stages: analysis of noise and exhaust gases.

Checking for extraneous noise

To achieve the most accurate results, you should protect yourself as much as possible from the natural sounds of the motor system. To do this you need to do three things:

1. Depress the clutch. This neutralizes noise coming from the gearbox.
2. Take into account noise coming from vibrations of the suspension, intake system and crankcase.
3. Remove the generator belt, thereby eliminating noise from the water pump and the generator itself.

After this, you can listen to the engine:

1. Low knocking sounds at high speeds. The main reason is excessive depreciation of the cylinder-piston section or crankshaft journals.
2. Loud knocking sounds at the top of the engine. The problem lies in the valve mechanism - it may be broken, depreciated, or it may be incorrectly adjusted.
3. Metallic noise when increasing/decreasing rpm. The reason is poor timing belt tension.

Exhaust gas testing

1. Black smoke with a burnt smell. Reason: the entry of the oil mixture into the combustion chamber and, as a result, increasing oil consumption.
2. Excessive emissions when revs increase. Reason: worn/defective oil seals.
3. Smoke is constantly pouring out of the chimney. Reason: worn parts of the cylinder-piston compartment.

Whether to use the services of a specialist, conduct diagnostics yourself, or combine these two options, everyone decides for themselves. The only important thing is that you should monitor the condition of the car regularly, checking the operation of the engine and tracking all deviations in order to be able to respond to a problem in a timely manner.

Video about self-computer diagnostics of a car: