MOST OF US CRINGE IN FEAR WHEN THE check engine light in the dashboard of a modern 4×4 is tripped on. Your mind begins to spin in frustration wondering what could have triggered it, how bad it really is, and most importantly, how much is it going to cost to fix it. In the old days, you typically needed an experienced mechanic to help diagnose vehicle engine problems. Today, we have code readers. They come in many shapes and sizes and some are more useful and specific about identifying problems than others. However, all of them access your vehicles engine information via the OBD-II port, which is typically located under the steering column and dash, just above the pedals. All vehicles that are '96 model year and newer have an OBD-II port. We recently got our hands on the new GoTech mobile OBD-II diagnostic tool and put it through its paces on several trucks in our fleet. The GoTech is more than just a code reader, though. It can interpret trouble codes, discover check engine light definitions, monitor engine performance in real time, review troubleshooting tips from ASE-certified Master Technicians, and of course, clear trouble codes, all via a Bluetooth-compatible smartphone or tablet.
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