Posted on 6/27/2025
Modern vehicles are packed with sophisticated technology that monitors nearly every aspect of operation. From engine performance to airbag readiness, these systems constantly track what’s happening under the hood and beyond. When something goes wrong, your car often tells you with a warning light, unusual behavior, or a loss of power. That’s where computer diagnostics come into play. What Are Computer Diagnostics Computer diagnostics refers to the process of using specialized tools to interface with a car’s onboard computer systems. These tools, often called scan tools or diagnostic scanners, read trouble codes stored in the vehicle’s computer (also known as the ECU or ECM). When a warning light like the check engine light comes on, the computer logs a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to the issue. These codes point technicians in the right direction, allowing them to begin investigating what’s wrong. But diagnostics go far beyond ... read more