There are countless things that can go wrong with an engine, and it isn’t always easy to figure exactly what those things are. Luckily, there are a range of different tools and devices that can give you the edge in diagnosing issues with your vehicle. It used to be that the more advanced tools were somewhat off-limits to home mechanics, but with advances in technology, these invaluable tools have become affordable and accessible to all. Below are a few of the most commonly used inspection tools that you might find in the modern garage.

What is an OBD2 scanner?

When a modern, EFI vehicle isn't running correctly, it can be difficult to diagnose the problem. Whilst you may be able to replicate the fault, sometimes the difference between a failing crankshaft position sensor and a faulty ignitor chip may be very difficult to differentiate. In other instances, the vehicle may be perceived to operate correctly, however an illuminated 'check engine' light on the dashboard may raise concerns. In these instances, a modern engine management computer is designed to record any sensors that are not operational or producing signal within factory specified values. The only difficult part is getting this recorded information off the engine management computer, and into your hands.

Most modern cars come equipped with a special output socket called an OBD which is short for On Board Diagnostics. The second generation of OBD is the most prolific, and so the use of an affordable scanner can greatly assist in figuring out what’s throwing faults up in your car.

What is an inspection camera?

An Inspection Camera applies optoelectronic technology to perform visual inspection in hard to reach areas (eg. Intake manifold, combustion chamber, exhaust port, timing case, gear box, differential and many more), which helps you to diagnose faults and perform repairs in a more timely manner. The advantages most inspection cameras are their compact size, and flexibility, combined with a decent, well-illuminated image output - allowing the user to see what they’re doing. Inspection cameras are widely used in the automotive industry, the building industry, aviation and property maintenance. The camera head is connected to a flexible probe and is fitted with bright led lights which allows bright light and easy access to small, tight areas. Often the camera head can be equipped with accessories such as magnetic pickups or mirrors to further expand the tool’s usability.

What is an infrared thermometer for?

Need to ensure a vital component is being cooled correctly, or to check if a thermal sensor is giving an accurate reading? An Infrared thermal scanner allows the user to measure the temperature of a desired component, without having to physically touch or come into contact with the item. The unit usually consists of optic and temperature sensors that collect heat emitted by objects via infrared which is transmitted to an LCD display. Any good thermometer should be switchable between Celsius and Fahrenheit to allow for easy diagnosis based on all sorts of reference materials. Usually the thermometer will be equipped with a laser for easier aiming too. An infrared thermometer is the ideal tool for checking everything from the temperature of a radiator, to the temperature of a turbochargers exhaust housing - providing excellent information about the cooling and lubrication properties of various components, not to mention confirming faulty temperature sensors that could otherwise be very difficult to diagnose.