One can buy diagnostic software that will let connect laptop to the OBD system in the vehicle, but automotive repair knowledge is usually also needed. To get the information you need to plug in an external device.Īn OBD auto scanner is used to receive data codes and other information about the car's general conditions. Most vehicles are equipped with on-board diagnostics or an OBD2 port that provides access to data from the engine control unit (ECU).
