Can a Wi-Fi Car Diagnostic Tool Detect Problems Through Sound?

[3301]

Is it doable that we can place mobile device on our auto and by detecting a sound coming out from car we can know where is the problem * if there is one?

 

[Mark44]

IMO, no. When an engine or other component is making an unusual noise, mechanics will sometimes use a stethoscope placed against various parts of the motor to get an idea of where the noise is coming from, and thereby, some idea of what might be causing the noise. I'm assuming that the device you're talking about is in a fixed location, so I don't think it would be able to get close enough to where it needs to be to provide useful information.

BTW, what is "Shazam?" Back many years ago there was a comic book hero, Marvel Man, whose catch phrase was "Shazam." A few years later, in the 60's, there was a sit-com character named Gomer Pyle, who also uttered the word.

 

[jedishrfu]

Some sounds allow you to determine what's wrong but I'm not sure any sound will help you find the exact problem.

http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/troubleshooting-strange-sounds-coming-from-your-au.html

 

[jedishrfu]

If you're trying to develop an app like this you'll probably have to create a database of sounds from all different makes and models of cars along with the type of problem.

However, I think using the car's diagnostic interface would be more effective.

 

[OCR]

Back many years ago there was a comic book hero, Marvel Man

His name was really ... Captain Marvel ..... ... lol

BTW, what is "Shazam?"

He probably means something that works like this ? .....

Oh my ...

There really was a Marvelman .....

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

However, I think using the car's diagnostic interface would be more effective.

Bingo, each car should have it's own diagnostic system in place.

 

[CWatters]

Most systems don't help identify mechanical faults such as a worn wheel bearing, shock or perforated exhaust.

 

[russ_watters]

I think it would be a good idea to try. If a mechanic can diagnose a problem by the sound, software should be able to do it better.

 

[3301]

I think it would be a good idea to try. If a mechanic can diagnose a problem by the sound, software should be able to do it better.

I heard and I saw that few people do that. But I really don't know if they are lying or they are able to do that.

Also probably many things can't be diagnosed by sound but this could be like "first aid" or something.

 

[russ_watters]

I'm not much of a car guy, but there are obvious problems I've heard before like valves tapping and an exhaust system that was failing (cracking tailpipe). I would expect that software would be able to recognize faster and subtler sounds than people could, much like an EKG can identify heart problems from subtle sound cues.

 

[CWatters]

Most experienced mechanics can identify a range of faults using sound, sometimes sound alone but usually in combination with other things such as what the driver has to do to provoke the sound. It helps if they are familiar with the make and model. Pretty sure this is something an AI system could also do but I suspect a mechanic is cheaper.

 

[jedishrfu]

Somewhat related a device that plugs into the card diagnostic port and is accessed via a smart phone app.

http://www.dudeiwantthat.com/gear/gadgets/wifi-car-diagnostic-scan-tool.asp