We have all experienced an issue of some sort when driving on a road, feeling helpless and not knowing what to do about a faulty vehicle. What’s even worse than getting your car to stop working? Having it fail you in the middle of nowhere, with no backup to call or seek for help. If you wish to be prepared for a mysterious rattle, a faulty tier, or any other minor complications we can help you out! This article will also help any DIY mechanics out there, men and women wanting to be prepared. Keep on reading and be equipped with the right car diagnostic tools.
8 Useful Car Diagnostic Tools every DIY Mechanic needs to have
1. Navigator
Source: texa.com
Navigator NANO S is the latest generation vehicle interface solution that will help you out with your cars, light commercials, motorcycles, scooters, quads, and even jet skis. Get a reliable reading and be prepared in every given situation. A powerful inspection light lets you illuminate the diagnostic socket and makes it visible wherever it is located on the vehicle. At the end of the diagnostic, the navigator emits a distinctive beep to remind you to pick it up. Find more about it or get a model that suits you at originaldiag.com.
2. Code reader
A simple & low-tech version of a scanner tool or scanner system is a code reader. By plugging it in you will get a full-service diagnostic written out through a proper numeric error code that is linked to your vehicle and its system. It’s up to you to check that code on different sites & online platforms to see what’s wrong with your car, and to see what it’s been missing. This is a quick fix-up solution. You can also go through your manual that comes with a car if you can’t go online at a given moment to see the explanation of an error code.
3. Multimeter
Source: toolsweek.com
This tool measures several different factors in your car’s electrical system. With it, you will get all the accurate readings for your resistance and voltage that need to be in check for your car to operate at its ideal and full capacity. With this info, you can determine any type of faulty circuits, battery charge issues, or sensor irregularities which are an often issue with most vehicles. A lot of people already own a multimeter since it is so affordable & easy to use, as well as easy to carry around.
4. Non-contact thermometer
Every engine will get hot while running, especially if you leave it on for a ”hot” minute. If you are experiencing issues with tight or restricted airflow your vehicle can get very hot and in a matter of seconds in loads of different places, and not just under your hood. This is why you will appreciate a non-contact thermometer since it will tell you which part is over-heating and what needs to be checked out or replaced. This also helps with old & untrustworthy thermostats that give improper readings.
5. Fuel pressure gauge
Source: lceperformance.com
Fuel systems can get dirty quite easily and quickly. Rust, debris, leaks, and other kinds of liquid can cause a problem with your fuel pressure which will further result in reduced power. With the gauge, you can get a proper reading for your vehicle which will tell you if you are using the right kind and level of fuel.
PS: In the future, make sure that you never drive on less than a quarter-tank of gas. With this simple rule implementation, you can avoid loads of issues & complications.
6. Circuit tester light
With a circuit tester light, you will get a multimeter of its own unique sort. This tool connects to a circuit and illuminates the light bulb. If it does light up, you are in luck since your circuit is optimal and it doesn’t need to be changed. However, you can’t know how much it is going to last, if it plans on working for hours, minutes, or days + you don’t get additional features such as amps or volts, etc. If you prefer to have it all in one place and you are detail-oriented, you might want to get something techier.
7. Mechanic’s stethoscope
Source: forcetools-kepmar.eu
If your car is making loud & weird noises you can have them checked out with a stethoscope – the quickest & simplest way. Mechanic stethoscopes have been around for centuries. They are one of the easiest ways to narrow down the source of those troubling noises + they are an affordable solution. There are loads of different modern kinds to go for that you can use with your big or small cars, motorcycles, and trucks. Some of them can be used even while driving!
8. Proper & bright lighting
It’s hard to fix or work on something that you can’t see – which is why you will need to invest in a good lighting system. Portable, affordable yet adjustable lighting that you can carry from point A to point B is a necessity. You should always illuminate your car, window, interior, or hood and expect it from front to the back. Under-hood lighting kits are a must and they will suit you for night-time long drives + they can come in handy if you spot someone else struggling aside in the middle of the night.
It is time to take proper care of your car
Do you want to invest in your car? Trying to make it safe & secure at any given moment? If so, make sure that you do the diagnostics regularly! You will feel at peace and ease if you gather all of your needed tools & diagnostics ready. We highly recommend that you consider all of our top 8 reviewed options, and always be prepared to jump in as your own DIY mechanic. Let us know your past experiences thus far, but stay on the lookout for the perfect solution in this case!
