An OBD scan is one of the most cost-effective tools in a remote pre-purchase inspection, but you need to know what it can and cannot tell you. What it reveals well: current and stored fault codes across the engine, transmission, ABS, airbag, and body modules. A car with dozens of cleared codes in multiple modules may have electrical problems or a history of tampering. It also shows readiness monitors — if all monitors show 「not ready」 on a car that claims to be freshly serviced, the codes were probably cleared recently to hide something. What it reveals with the right software: live data. You can watch engine idle stability, coolant temperature under load, transmission shift behavior, and battery cell voltages on EVs. Abnormal fuel trims or misfire counters can flag worn injectors or coils before any warning light appears. What it cannot do: prove real mileage (odometers can be corrected digitally), detect physical accident repairs, or judge paint and rust. Practical advice: ask your inspector for a full-system scan report with screenshots, not just a 「no codes」 verbal summary. For Chinese brands, make sure the tool supports their protocols — mainstream scanners cover BYD, Geely, and Chery well, but some small brands need brand-specific software.

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Fake or recycled inspection reports are a real risk. Verify authenticity before wiring the balance payment. First, match the VIN: the report must show the full VIN, and the photos must include close-ups of the VIN plate on the chassis and the windshield tag. Ask for a live video call where the inspector walks to the car, shows the VIN tag, and then pans across the dashboard, odometer, and any defects noted in the report—on the same call. Check metadata: ask for original photos rather than screenshots. Files sent via WeChat often strip EXIF, so request the inspector to email originals or use a cloud link where timestamps and GPS data are visible. Cross-verify details: the odometer reading in the video should match the report exactly, and paint-thickness readings should be reproducible—ask the inspector to re-measure 2-3 spots live. Use a known inspection company rather than one recommended solely by the seller, and pay the inspector directly. An independent inspector has no incentive to hide defects.