Despite the fact that the design and operation of the internal combustion engine have remained unchanged for over a century, modern power plants are much different from their ancestors. Today's motors are the most complicated technical structures, which include not only the mechanical, but also the electronic part. Therefore, such engines must be regularly diagnosed in order to prevent the development of any breakdown. In this process, many nuances should be taken into account, which we will talk about today.
At the moment, engine diagnostics are performed in only two cases. The first is when the driver buys a used car and wants to check how good its “heart” is. Well, the second case occurs when a motorist suspects any problems associated with the dynamics and behavior of the car, that is, signs indicating a malfunction of the motor.
As for the work itself, engine diagnostics is divided into the following categories.
The identification of possible breakdowns and malfunctions visually (that is, by ear and by touch). This type of work is very popular among motorists, because it can be done independently, without the use of any expensive tools. However, it should be borne in mind that such engine diagnostics only partially identify possible sources of damage.- Troubleshooting using special equipment. This type of work can be described as computer engine diagnostics. Renault, Fiat, Mercedes and even VAZ can be checked in this way. All work is carried out using special electronic scanners.
And now in more detail about it. Wizards in this type of work connect a scanner to the diagnostic connector (it is located under the hood), that is, a computer that checks the system for errors. It reads encrypted codes, monitors the value of various sensors. Thanks to this, computer equipment is able to determine the exact type of breakdown and indicate its source. Thus, this type of work allows you to most accurately determine the type and type of malfunctions.
However, unfortunately, such devices are used only at service stations. The thing is that this equipment (it consists of a motor tester, multimeter , oscilloscope, scanner, manometer and compressor) costs a lot of money. Moreover, only a professional master can use it correctly, since all these tools have a lot of nuances that should be considered when using. Therefore, acquiring diagnostic equipment for home use simply does not make sense.
And finally, I want to note a few more points that can be determined using special equipment in any modern car, be it a domestic VAZ or a Japanese Toyota. Engine diagnostics are able to show the characteristics and properties of the ignition system, as well as check its current status. In addition, thanks to electronic equipment, the engine control unit can be adjusted, thereby extending the life of the motor.