For years, since the advent of OBD2 systems around 1996, having a reliable car diagnostic tool has been invaluable for vehicle owners. My first foray into this technology was with an Actron scan tool. While it was somewhat basic by today’s standards, lacking advanced features like control module access or ABS pump cycling, it provided essential functionalities. It allowed me to trigger onboard diagnostic tests, a particularly useful feature for checking O2 sensor function. This early investment, costing around $250 – a significant sum back then – proved its worth many times over by helping me identify and address car issues effectively.
Thinking about upgrading my toolkit, I’ve been considering newer models like the Actron CP9695, which offers more comprehensive capabilities, including ABS pump cycling for brake bleeding – a feature that could be quite handy.
The Innova CarScan Tech 5510 also looks like a compelling option, representing the advancements in Car Diagnostics Port Scan Module technology available today.
However, reflecting on my car maintenance history, I realize that the need for ABS pump cycling, specifically for brake and clutch hydraulic system bleeding, has been relatively infrequent. In fact, I can only recall performing this procedure twice on cars I’ve owned since 2002. Typically, when a brake or clutch hydraulic system flush and bleed service was due, I found it more convenient to have it done professionally during routine oil and filter changes.
Professional automotive technicians handle brake bleeding regularly and efficiently. Observing them at work, especially with the car on a lift, is quite impressive. They often use pressure bleeders, eliminating the need for a helper, and can quickly move from caliper to caliper. The process involves connecting a catch bottle to the bleed valve nipple to collect the old fluid. As soon as the valve is opened, the old fluid is expelled, and the technician monitors the fluid until it turns clear and fresh, then closes the valve and repeats the process at each wheel. Crucially, they utilize a diagnostic tool, essentially a sophisticated car diagnostics port scan module, to cycle the ABS pump, ensuring a thorough bleed.
While I don’t recall the exact cost of this service, I remember it being reasonably priced, especially when compared to more complex dealer services. Along with manual transmission and differential fluid changes, brake bleeding by professionals was one of the more economical maintenance tasks I opted to have done at a service department.
I have manually bled brakes a couple of times myself, primarily for the learning experience. However, after those two instances, I concluded that for brake system maintenance, leveraging professional services or investing in a modern car diagnostics port scan module capable of ABS cycling might be the most efficient approach for most car owners.
