Tracing the Roots: How the OBD-2 Scanner Became a DIY Mechanic's Best Friend

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My new OBD-II scanner arrived just in time to work on my new project car. It’s amazing how much technology has advanced that you can get a good scanner for less than $150.

Today, we talk about this essential tool. Plus, we ask you: what project car are you working on?

Key Takeaways

Don’t have much time? Here’s the summary of what we’re talking about:

• Evolution and Importance of OBD-II Scanners: Highlighting the development of OBD systems since the 1960s, our article shows how OBD-II scanners have become essential for diagnosing and maintaining modern vehicles. It notes the transition from basic diagnostics to advanced functions, making these tools critical for DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

• Rising Popularity of Crossover SUVs: The surge in crossover SUV ownership from less than 10% in 2000 to 45% of US drivers choosing them today reflects their growing appeal. We highlight the variety of selections available and offer insights into finding the right crossover SUV for individual needs and preferences.

• DIY: Painting Jeep Wrangler Fender Flares: Fender flares are iconic to the Jeep Wrangler's appearance, and the article provides a step-by-step guide for painting them. This DIY project is presented as a fun and rewarding way to personalize and enhance the look of a Wrangler, emphasizing the vehicle's unique identity.

KERN’S CORNER

This tool became a DIY mechanic’s best friend

At Four Wheel Trends, we love working on cars and know you love it too! (75% of you said you love to DIY!). So, I thought we’d look at the one essential tool that changed everything for those working on their cars: the OBD-II onboard diagnostics tool. 

It’s hard to imagine that the origins of onboard diagnostics go as far back as the 60s. 

The first company to create an OBD computer system was Volkswagen, which installed an OBD system in its Volkswagen Type 3 in late 1968. While it allowed technicians to check for issues with the vehicle, it provided only basic information.

Data output came only when connected to gauges or indicators showing only a positive or negative result. As rudimentary as it was, its impact was immediate.

By 1970, 289 of the estimated 300 VW dealerships in Britain could diagnose vehicles with electronics, setting the precedent for what we know today. However, more importantly, it paved the way for the DIY enthusiast and the independent mechanic. 

By the late 80s, entities such as the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and states such as California urged manufacturers towards standardization. Until then, every manufacturer had created its own system, making it difficult for mechanics and authorities to diagnose conditions and emissions.

In 1988, the SAE recommended that all vehicles have a standardized system; thus, the OBD-I was born. Then, by 1994, California, along with SAE recommendations, established that by 1994, all vehicles sold in the state must have an OBD system, now called OBD-II.

The state regulation then expanded to the entire United States. By 1996, all vehicles manufactured in the United States (or sold there) had to carry an OBD-II system, but it wasn’t a cheap project, per se. 

It’s estimated that adding an OBD-II system to each new car in 1996 would cost an additional $61 per vehicle. That’s $119 in today’s money. 

The European Union followed suit in 2001, thus opening the doors for a more advanced way of inspecting vehicles. Logically, this coincided with vehicles becoming even more complex. Hence, a tool such as an OBD-II scanner became crucial for workshops. 

Now, OBD-II scanners come in many shapes and sizes and, most importantly, prices. Some of them have become so advanced that they can even change hidden settings in your vehicle. 

The OBD-II port and the scanning tools to access the car’s brains have become synonymous with home mechanics and large workshops. At FWT, we love them. I’ve just ordered one to have on hand for my project car for when it behaves like a project car. Not only that, but they’ve helped us weed out issues that could have cost us hundreds at a shop, and that’s why the future of the OBD-II concerns me. 

Let’s face it: working on modern cars is increasingly more challenging. Even experienced workshops are turning away certain brands or models. Also, once you pop the hood, it’s all plastic and more plastic covers, all joined by plastic bolts that break off easily. 

This all responds to a change in how we consume our products, from mobile phones to automobiles, and it places the OBD-II in the center stage of a dilemma. 

Many enthusiasts have found that, while the OBD-II continues to function, some manufacturers have limited its ability to interact with the vehicle. The primary functions and diagnostics remain, but anything more than that has become a challenge.

We’re back to those early days when every manufacturer fended for itself, and the automotive enthusiast was left behind. Not that we wanted to work on black boxes and plastic shrouds, but it leaves much to be desired. 

And it gets me thinking: what about EVs? Will we need an OBD-II port or just a USB cable?

Fortunately, you can still use your OBD-II scanner on many vehicles, including the Wrangler. We’ve compiled the best OBD-II scanners for Jeep Wranglers and have the list here. Read more to find out what they are! 

BEST AND WORST

How to choose the best crossover SUV

45% of drivers in the US choose a crossover. That number alone is fascinating, but it’s even more surprising when we realize that, in the year 2000, that number was less than 10%. There’s no denying: people love their crossover SUV, but with so many to choose from, how do you know which is the one for you? Well, our article has the answer. 

TIPS AND KNOW-HOW

How to paint Jeep Wrangler fender flares

If you think of fender flares, chances are you think of a Wrangler, right? It’s hard to explain, but fender flares are a part of a Wrangler’s identity, so painting them is so much fun. So, how do you go about painting Jeep Wrangler flares? Kern has the answer in this fun, step-by-step article!

NEWSBITES

Every week, we scour the web for the most essential news. Here’s what you need to know this week:

• This automotive industry sector is bound to grow to $7.5 billion in 2030. Can you guess what it is?

• Tesla and Mercedes Benz earned practically the same last year, but here’s how their valuations differed.

• Troubled EV startup Rivian continues its rollercoaster ride in a bid to surrive