Dorman Products and Diesel Laptops have launched a smartphone-enabled scan tool device that provides heavy-duty truck diagnostics for North American makes and models.

The Diesel Decoder plugs into the truck's diagnostics port and transmits detailed information to the user's smartphone. The device works in conjunction with the Diesel Decoder mobile app and is designed to read true system diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), including manufacturer-specific fault codes.

The decoder also connects directly to the Diesel Laptops’ repair library to identify required repairs, including fault code repair information, wiring diagrams, component locators, and remove and replace instructions, Diesel Laptops officials said in a press release.

The Diesel Decoder also detects and stores truck health reports, and provides driver productivity and trip reports, including fuel economy and hard braking events.

By using a smartphone app, the Diesel Decoder reduces the upfront equipment cost compared to other heavy-duty diagnostic tools which require proprietary hardware, Diesel Laptop officials said.

This product is ideal for owner-operators who perform their own repairs and maintenance or rely on independent service centers, company officials said.