Meet the author

James Rowan

A clearer view of scan tools, compatibility and software ownership.

Behind the guides

James Rowan

James covers diagnostic scanners for Scan Tool Ledger, focusing on vehicle compatibility, service functions and software ownership. The guides draw on manufacturer specifications, manuals and support information to explain what buyers should confirm before choosing a tool.

50 published articles

Our research approach

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Latest articles from James Rowan

Diagnostic tablet and interface in a garage with several parked vehicles

Ownership Guides

Choosing One Diagnostic Scanner for Multiple Cars: Coverage, Updates and Shop Costs

Choose a scanner for multiple cars by checking each vehicle's required functions, update costs, connection needs and access requirements.

Updated Oct 31, 2026Read guide

Diagnostic tablet beside a car's windshield identification area

Ownership Guides

AutoVIN Not Working on Your Scan Tool? How to Check Vehicle Identification

Check vehicle identification when AutoVIN fails, including manual selection, market and powertrain details, software and connection issues.

Updated Oct 31, 2026Read guide

Two vehicle diagnostic report clipboards beside a scan tablet

Ownership Guides

Pre-Scan vs Post-Scan Vehicle Reports: A Practical Diagnostic Documentation Checklist

Plan pre-scan and post-scan vehicle reports with a practical checklist for vehicle identity, module records, repair notes and scan limitations.

Updated Oct 31, 2026Read guide

OBD scanner and three tabbed diagnostic record cards

Ownership Guides

Pending vs Stored vs Permanent OBD2 Codes: What Your Scanner Actually Shows

Understand pending, stored and permanent OBD2 trouble codes, including what their status can tell you and what a scanner cannot erase.

Updated Oct 31, 2026Read guide

Phone and OBD adapter beside a parked electric hatchback

Ownership Guides

OBD2 Adapters for Hybrids and EVs: Battery Data, Apps and Limits

Understand OBD2 adapter and app limits for hybrids and EVs, including the vehicle-specific checks needed for traction-battery information.

Updated Oct 31, 2026Read guide

Diagnostic tablet and laptop with abstract diagnostic data displays

Ownership Guides

OBD2 Mode 6 vs Live Data: When Monitor Test Results Help

Compare OBD2 Mode 6 monitor-test results and live data, including how vehicle-specific definitions affect what the readings mean.

Updated Oct 31, 2026Read guide

OBD adapter and diagnostic cable beside an open car doorway

Ownership Guides

OBD2 Adapter Won’t Connect: Port Power, App Pairing and Driver Checks

Check port power, app selection, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi pairing, drivers and vehicle compatibility when an OBD2 adapter will not connect.

Updated Oct 31, 2026Read guide

Tire-pressure service tool and valve-stem sensors beside a wheel

Ownership Guides

TPMS Programming vs Activation vs Relearn: Which Tool Do You Need?

Understand TPMS sensor programming, activation and vehicle relearn so you can identify the tool functions your particular job requires.

Updated Oct 31, 2026Read guide

Diagnostic tablet and notebook on a parked car's passenger seat

Ownership Guides

Scanner Says Function Not Supported: 10 Things to Check Before Replacing It

Work through ten checks when a scanner reports an unsupported function, including vehicle identity, software, access and compatibility.

Updated Oct 31, 2026Read guide

Vehicle communication interfaces and a USB cable on a workbench

Ownership Guides

Replacement Scanner VCI Compatibility: What to Check Before Buying an Adapter

Check scanner model, regional version, pairing requirements and manufacturer support before buying a replacement VCI adapter.

Updated Oct 31, 2026Read guide