Why do I need an OBD scanner in my toolbox? We test the GS911 OBD diagnostic tool

OBD scanners are now a necessary component of the arsenal of the do-it-yourself mechanic, with the ability to read engine problem codes being important to diagnosing and repairing your motorcycle.

They are the quickest method of problem solving. Without an OBD reader, you’ll have to go to a garage to have the trouble code recognized for you. Given that OEM labour charges often range from 1800 to 2000 INR per hour, none of us want to do that.

You can diagnose and fix most common mechanical and electrical problems at home with a few basic tools if you combine an OBD fault code reader with an app that is able to read and tell you where the problem is.

What is an OBD Reader?

Traditionally, an OBD reader has been a portable diagnostic computer that communicates with the computer in your motorcycle to, among other things, identify trouble codes. An OBD scanner can cost as little as 1000 INR or as much as thousands of rupees, with the latter giving a host of options, but whichever you choose, it should meet the following minimal standards:

-Communicate with the motorcycle

-Reading error codes

-Eliminating fault codes

More professional OBD tools and apps will let you use service functionality which means you have the ability to do service reminder resets, output tests, calibrations, ABS bleed tests, clearing and relearning of adaptations.

How does OBD work?

On-board diagnostics, or OBD, refers to a port that somewhat resembles a vintage TV SCART socket that is present on most petrol engine motorcycles and cars.

The OBD socket also provides power, so there’s no need for the OBD scanner to have its own electricity supply, via batteries or a lead.

We test the GS911 for BMW motorcycles.

The engine and all other subsystems in contemporary automobiles are controlled electronically. The electronic control units also provide a plethora of diagnostic tools and data that can be used to identify specific vehicle issues. There is no exception to this with BMW motorcycles.

Anyone with a PC or mobile device can use this diagnostic capacity offered by their BMW motorcycle thanks to the GS-911 toolkit. Finding the reason why a motorcycle died when you were stranded on the side of the road may mean the difference between having a bad day and making it to your goal without incident. The GS-911 tool is used to service the electronic side of a vehicle while a variety of tools are used to maintain the mechanical parts.

What functionality does it have?

This depends on the bike model, but in general we cover the following (please refer to the Function Chart):

• Read Diagnostic Fault Codes This shows the Fault codes and text descriptions of the faults stored on the Electronic Control Unit.
• Clears Diagnostic Fault Codes Enables you to erase fault codes once the problem has been fixed.
• Shows ECU information See hardware and software versions, manufacturing dates, and other manufacturer related data.
• Real-time Analog and Digital values for Engine control units View and log the real-time sensor and switch values (very dependent on the type of controller)
• Service Functionality This differs from model to model and controller to controller, and ranges from Service Reminder resets, output tests, adaptation resets, etc

Basically, you can see pretty much everything that the bike is doing in real-time on a graph while it’s running, you can activate things like the horn, fan, brake light etc to diagnose faults, and you can read any fault codes as well as clear them. And you can reset the service interval warning.

The real-time values can be extremely useful, with the option to view as data or as a graph, and to record that data on the phone. You can select any number of fields to view, and here’s everything that’s available from the engine controller on my R1250GS:

• Battery voltage
• Air temperature
• Coolant temperature
• Front wheel speed
• Rear wheel speed
• Calculated wheel speed
• Ambient air pressure
• Fuel pressure
• Engine RPM
• Target Idle RPM
• Camshaft RPM
• Fuel sense voltage
• Lambda sensor voltage
• Gear position
• Side-stand switch
• Clutch switch
• Clutch switch 2
• Oil switch
• Start switch
• Kill switch
• Mode switch
• ASC button (if fitted)
• Fuel pump
• Exhaust flap position
• Exhaust flap adjustment completed
• Immobiliser starter release
• Starter enable release
• Starter protection
• Ignition angle
• Ignition coil closing time
• Injection time bank 1
• Injection time bank 2
• Throttle twist-grip position
• Throttle valve sensor 1
• Throttle valve sensor 2
• Lean angle
• Immobiliser allows start
• Lambda control factor 1
• Lambda ceramic temperature bank 1
• Lambda pump current bank 1
• Lambda control factor 2
• Lambda ceramic temperature bank 2
• Lambda pump current bank 2

Do you really need one?

It can be challenging to fully explain the advantages of the Hex GS-911 to someone who hasn’t needed one. The diagnostic capabilities are what make this so important, but even at its most basic level, checking and resetting the service code may quickly save the cost of the device for someone who performs their own maintenance.

Real-time data may indicate a problem with a sensor or the throttle, for example, but the ability to activate parts will also be very helpful. For instance, using the GS-911 to turn on the primary beam could help you determine whether the problem is with a switch or a light.

You can blast the horn, the indicators, and every other output, or you can turn on the heated grips one at a time. If the bike is overheating, you may verify the fan’s functionality by turning it on, and while the motor warms up, you can keep an eye on the coolant and oil temperatures.

The Hex GS-911 enables you to bleed brakes on any machine with ABS even though it might be challenging and typically requires a dealer to prime the pump. Additionally, the semi-active suspension can be recalibrated. a tyre pressure sensor replaced. You may pair it with the bike using this.

The Hex GS-911 won’t make every rider a DIY mechanic, but it will enable those who can handle their own maintenance to fully understand, use, and manage the bike’s myriad technological features. As a result, the Hex GS-911 is a crucial tool and is strongly advised.