Another Cool Tool, CarMD Code Reader

I recently had the opportunity to try the CarMD code reader. It's a great little tool that let's you retrieve a code when your check engine light comes on.

Most people don't know that you can find out these codes by simply purchasing a code reader that plugs into almost any vehicle. For less than $100 CarMD will not only tell you the codes that have been stored in your vehicle, but it also plugs into your computer and allows you to get valuable information about that code from their website.

They do a good job at explaining the possible problems and give you an idea of what it might cost to get it fixed. This arms you with information to take to your service shop and not feel like their giving you some bogus information that only they know.

It's important to note that this tool will not clear your codes or fix your vehicle. You should still have the problem properly diagnosed by a technician. Many times just replacing the component that the code tells you is the problem may not be the answer. There could be something else making the component give a bad reading.

Having this tool however allows you to do more research on the possible problem and gives you confidence to talk intelligently with your service provider on how to repair the vehicle.

Here's a quick video about your check engine light that I did for Galtime.com and I show the CarMD tool.

Check Engine Light Video


You can also go to my site for a discount when you purchase the CarMD code reader.

Ladies, Start Your Engines Website


This is a great little tool that could save you money and also help you learn more about your vehicle.

Lori

Women and Parking Lots

I was recently at the grocery store when I noticed a woman standing near her vehicle with the hood opened. She was alone and attempting to contact someone on the phone. Whenever I see women alone with a broken down vehicle I try to stop and at least offer some assistance.

Women can feel vulnerable when their vehicle breaks down for a couple reasons. 1. They may not know what's wrong and how to fix it. 2. Men who are strangers may stop to help and this may not be safe.

I have actually felt like the women I've helped were relieved that a woman stopped to help them. I don't treat them like they don't know what they're doing and I try to help them understand what went wrong if I can.

The woman in the grocery store lot seemed to have everything under control. She had contacted the lot security who was on the way with a jump. I stayed to help out. The young man had a jump box with a broken clamp and I wondered how he intended to get it to work.

I stood back for a moment and let him do his job. When the vehicle wouldn't start I had to step in :) I was able to get a good contact and get the vehicle started. I also talked to the woman about what her options were for her battery problem. She was very grateful for the help and thanked me for the information.

I couldn't help but wonder what the security guard would have done if he couldn't get the vehicle started...he probably would have told her to get a tow. I think it's important for women to look out for each other. If you see a woman broken down and you can stop, even if you only have moral support to offer, it could still mean a great deal. Staying with her until the vehicle is taken care of and you know she's safe is just as important as offering car advice.

I enjoy helping people in general, but am especially happy to be able to help women with a broken down vehicle feel a little safer.

Lori