Method and system for computer network implemented vehicle diagnostics

An automotive code reader for diagnosing a vehicle having an onboard computer for generating diagnostic trouble code signals, the diagnostic trouble code signals being related to a vehicle status, the tool comprising:

• a connector for connecting to the onboard computer;
• a connect button for electrically connecting the scan tool to the onboard computer;
• a microprocessor in electrical communication with the connector and operative to selectively generate a visual output signal representative of passed/failed/inconclusive status of the vehicle as determined from the absence/presence of diagnostic trouble code signals;
• and
• a plurality of indicator lights in electrical communication with the microprocessor, the microprocessor being operative to illuminate a first indicator light in response to receipt of diagnostic trouble code signals from the onboard computer, a second indicator light in response to a determination that no diagnostic trouble code signals were recorded in the onboard computer, and a third indicator light in response to an inability to conclusively determine presence or absence of diagnostic trouble code signals in the onboard computer;
• the selective illumination of one of the indicator lights proceeding in response to operation of the connect button, independent of user interaction with a visual interface.