We have smartphones, smart buildings, and now smart cars. Because of onboard diagnostic tools such as Fixd, even an older vehicle can tell you what’s wrong with it. Whether the check engine light just flickered on or your car needs scheduled service, this tool can help you know when your vehicle needs maintenance. 

Fixd sends valuable diagnostic data about your vehicle to your smartphone through a mobile app using a scanner that attaches to your car. How does it work, and where can you get it? 

What is Fixd?

Fixd, available from Fixd Automotive in Georgia, is a hardware-software system that provides you with vital information about your vehicle. According to TomsGuide.com, the hardware component sends data from your vehicle to the app installed on your smartphone. If the system identifies any problems, you can give that information to your mechanic.

Fixd is also useful in reminding you when it’s time to take your vehicle in for regular maintenance.

To use the tool, you must download the Fixd app from Google Play for Android or the App Store for iPhone. Once you install and launch the app, you’ll need to create an account. Next, in your car, you’ll need to sync your Fixd sensor with the app using Bluetooth. Once they are paired, you can immediately get information about your vehicle.

As you review the app, you can learn about the current state of your car. You can set up the app to send you notifications alerting whenever a problem occurs.

How does it work?

If your vehicle was built after 1996, it likely has the necessary OBD-II port to work with Fixd. The port can be found around the glove box or steering wheel. If your car was made before 1996, Fixd won’t work for it.

Also, Fixd isn’t currently compatible with diesel or all-electric vehicles. 

The OBD-II is your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic (OBD) port. It gives the Fixd device access to your car’s self-diagnostic system — the same one professional mechanics use to communicate with your car. 

According to PCMag.com, if the check engine light turns on, the system is picking up a malfunction. It could be a faulty oxygen sensor, fuel vapor leak, misfiring cylinder, or any number of other issues. A code is generated by the vehicle’s computer that mechanics use to fix the problem. 

Most mechanics run the same type of diagnostic evaluation to get the same code. And there are as many as 6,800 potential problems for the check engine light alone. The Fixd system also provides you with a description of the likely cause with the standard error code. And it’ll tell you what will happen if the problem isn’t fixed.

PCMag.com also explained that Fixd will alert you when it’s time to get a new battery, tires, or wipers. It will provide a list of available compatible replacements you can buy on Amazon. The app will also show you a map of local repair shops and any active recalls for your vehicle.

Can Fixd help you at the repair shop?

Armed with the information Fixd provides you about your vehicle, you’ll have an idea of what to expect if the issue requires a visit to a mechanic. The app gives you information about your car’s issue, along with the suggestion that professional help is needed if applicable. Otherwise, it will advise you of what needs to happen when, such as a routine oil change, and where you can get it from a list of the world’s largest retailers.

If you have to go to the mechanic, you can take the information from Fixd to the repair shop to estimate what such services usually cost. That data can prevent you from getting ripped off. Do your homework before you go, and be sure to write down any questions you have.

Though Fixd can’t make repairs for you, it can give you a lot of useful data so you’ll know what part of your car needs attention. The tool can also let you know how to fix your car quickly and affordably. Fixd is easy to set up and use. And if you have to take your vehicle to a repair shop, you’ll have a good idea of what to expect.