The Apple iPad is arguably one of the best-selling tablet devices in the world. These days, you can buy them in a variety of sizes and specifications. For once, the masses can now buy Apple gadgets that suit their budget!
Most people use their iPad to play games, check email, and do some work. Others use their device to watch videos or stream music to their Bluetooth Hi-Fi.
What you may not know is that you can use a simple iPad to help maintain and repair your car! Here are a few examples of how the Apple iPad can be an essential item in any DIY home mechanical kit:
Repair Manual
Apple iPad is a brilliant device for storing and reading documents and books. Believe it or not, this is a handy tool for storing and referring to workshop manuals.
It doesn’t matter if you need it Chrysler repair manual or a Ford service book. You can store everything on iPad for offline use when you need it. Now there’s no reason to buy and store physical books in your home. At least, where your car cares!
Augmented Reality
If you are new to car maintenance, you may not be sure how to find the various parts in your car. Of course, the service manual may give you some diagrams to help you find it. However, they are not always clear or concise.
A better option is to use an augmented reality app. This is where you take the iPad’s rear camera and “point” it at your bike. Overlaid on top of the live image will be details of what each part does. So if you need to find a starter motor or alternator, you’ll know where it is!
Fault Diagnosis
We all know that today’s vehicles have an electronic “brain” that controls them. As you can imagine, they are complex systems that do a lot of work behind the scenes.
If the ECU or Engine Control Unit detects an error, you will know about it. How? Because a warning light will flash on your dashboard. The thing is, it won’t tell you what the problem is or what’s causing it. To do that, you need to use diagnostic equipment to perform a repair.
The typical method is to have the shop read out the error code for you. They have devices that connect to your car’s OBD-II or diagnostic port. The good news is that you can save money by reading the error code yourself!
Apart from an iPad and OBD-II apps, all you need is a cheap one OBD-II Bluetooth adapter. Your iPad can then communicate with the car wirelessly. Apart from reading fault codes, you can also view and test the status of various machine functions.
Remote Control
Today’s modern cars allow you to remotely control various aspects. You can do things like start the engine and turn on the air conditioner. Other practical functions include the facility of remotely turning on the headlights.
One can download an iPad app that allows them to perform various remote control functions in their car. Even if the car and owner are several miles from each other!
