Pocket Change - Shopping Blog

Last month I talked about the handy Equus CanOBD2, a device that you can plug into your car to run on-board diagnostics on your engine and other critical components of your car. Although the Equus CanOBD2 is simple and safe to use, you can still be injured if you do not operate the device properly.

Here are a few quick safety tips to keep in mind when you’re running on-board diagnostics using the CanOBD2:

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  Ventilation – In order for you to run diagnostics using the Equus CanOBD2, your car’s engine needs to be on. However, when a car is running, it produces Carbon Monoxide and other harmful chemicals. Make sure that your can is in a well ventilated area before running your diagnostics.

• Fire Safety – The vapors produced by the fuel and battery are highly flammable, and can result in a fire or even an explosion if ignited. It’s important that there are no open flames or anything that can cause a spark when you’re running diagnostics on the car. DO NOT smoke while running tests on your vehicle.
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  Parking – Make sure that your car is properly parked, with the transmission on “park” and the parking break engaged before working on your vehicle. Turn your wheels to face the curb if on a hill, and use parking blocks if necessary.

• Connection – Connecting and disconnecting the testing equipment while the vehicle is running can potentially damage the vehicle. Make sure that the Equus CanOBD2 is plugged in FIRST before starting your vehicle.
• Eye Protection – When working on a vehicle, there is always the possibility of small objects and hot liquids flying at you. Make sure to wear appropriate eye protection to protect your eyes from these dangers.
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  Moving Parts – When the engine is running, many of the parts of the vehicle move at rapid speeds, and can be harmful if you make contact with them. Make sure to keep your hands and other extremities away from any fast moving parts.

• Hot Parts – When the engine is running, many parts can heat up to dangerous temperatures. Avoid contact with any metal parts that may be hot, and wear safety gloves to keep yourself from getting burned.
• Loose Clothing – Avoid wearing loose clothing and any jewelry while working on your vehicle. Jewelry can fall into the machinery and damage it, or get caught in a pulley and cause you harm. Jewelry is also highly conductive, and can cause you burns if it makes contact with anything hot. Dress comfortably but safely when operating the Equus CanOBD2.

Finally, be sure to read the instruction manual that comes with the Equus CanOBD2 fully before operating the device. Even though the device is simple to use once you learn how to, it is always best to go over the instructions before operating something that can potentially cause the vehicle harm. With the proper precautions, and the right preparation, you will be using the Equus CanOBD2 to run diagnostics in no time.

-Takeshi, shopping blogger and on-board diagnostician