The world of car diagnostics has changed a lot over the last 50 years. Back in the '70s and earlier, a mechanic's most valuable diagnostic tools were usually their eyes and ears. You could figure out ...

Diagnosing automotive problems used to be much more challenging. A mechanic had to use all of their skills to pinpoint mechanical or electrical issues. Nowadays, you can diagnose many problems ...

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. The OBD acronym stands for on-board diagnostics, a system built into modern vehicles that monitors the performance of the engine and other ...

What is OBD-II: A standardized system in all cars since 1996 that monitors engine, transmission, and emissions, storing trouble codes when something’s off. Why it matters: Reading codes with a scanner ...

Seeing your vehicle's check-engine light come on can throw a wrench in your travel plans. It can also feel a little scary: Does it mean your ride is headed for the scrapyard? Or is there a simple fix?

If you own a car built after 1996, it comes equipped with a second-generation onboard diagnostic (OBD or OBDII) system. These systems work together with the vehicle's primary computer or powertrain ...

The check engine light is both a friend and foe. For those who take their cars to the shop for repairs, it’s a symbol of impending treachery and rising credit card bills. But to those who shoulder the ...

Vehicle Tech I finally tried a dash cam disguised as a rearview mirror, and it makes practical sense — here’s why Vehicle Tech I drove the BMW 550e for a week — and this sedan is the reason why all ...

Seeing that dreaded check-engine light illuminate on your vehicle's instrument cluster can be quite spooky. Thoughts of a devastating engine failure come to mind, paired with an equally devastating ...