Looking to buy OBD2 Scan Tool

[kenmac]

I bought this basic mod...Amazon.com: Equus 3030 Innova Diagnostic Code Reader for OBDII (Post-1996) Vehicles: Automotive. You can also clear codes. They also offer more expensive models

 

[Willl]

Mine looks just like yours Ken. Had it a couple of years now.

Nothing fancy, basic model. But gets the job done.

 

[kennyd]

Excellent timing as I've just started looking for one too. My 1998 Ford F-250 has the ABS light on and lately, it's been running rough when I come to a stop, then smooths out. I have a client who will do the check for me without charging me, but he's way out of the way from where I'm working right now, and I don't know when I'll be able to get to his shop to have him do it for me.

Buying one and just being able to do the test myself makes allot of sense. Thanks for the links and recomendations.

Eddie

Most if not all of the handheld scanners will NOT read ABS codes, they will only read a codes if the CEL (check engine light) is on. It will not help you diagnose the running rough either if the CEL is not on.

 

[JDeerekid]

Most if not all of the handheld scanners will NOT read ABS codes, they will only read a codes if the CEL (check engine light) is on. It will not help you diagnose the running rough either if the CEL is not on.

Actron just came out with an ABS brake scanner a while back. But for the average person it is a bit pricey. ABS BRAKESCAN

 

[kenmac]

Most if not all of the handheld scanners will NOT read ABS codes, they will only read a codes if the CEL (check engine light) is on. It will not help you diagnose the running rough either if the CEL is not on.

My model won't read ABS codes

 

[Sackett2]

OK, my 2 cents:
The first level of code readers only give you the numbers, and some may only read what the generic numbers. Those are what are required by law to be available to you. take the number and plug it into Google and wala: code description. Some may come with a book to look up all the codes.
Realistically, this is all you need.
The next level would give you the code number and the "narrative" ie P0301 - Cylinder #1 Misfire
The next level of scan tool will give you freeze frame (data stored at the moment the code was set) and "live Data" (watch the engine run) Unless you know how to read this, it won't do you much good.
After that the features get more fancy, the ability to run tests, activate stuff. Manufactures scanners do even more.

Remember, a code from your car is a symptom, not a diagnosis. You go to a Dr. with a fever, he asks specific questions and comes up with a cause.
Cars are the same way, and respond differently to problems. One may give you a o2 sensor code that is a failed o2 sensor, another gives you the same code that is a faulty cat converter.
I use a auto x-ray at work, as our other scanner is Subaru specific.

Getting the code and using the internet is a good way at fixing cars.

 

[EddieWalker]

Actron just came out with an ABS brake scanner a while back. But for the average person it is a bit pricey. ABS BRAKESCAN

Ebay has the same model for sale with a buy it now price $100 less then Actron lists it for.

Of course, I'm hoping for a scanner that does both ABS and check engine light. Does this exist?

Eddie

 

[JDeerekid]

Ebay has the same model for sale with a buy it now price $100 less then Actron lists it for.

Of course, I'm hoping for a scanner that does both ABS and check engine light. Does this exist?

Eddie

I beleive the high end models do. My buddy that is a ford mechanic had a snap on version and his found that my ABS light was on becuase of a wheel speed sensor.

The Actron website price on there products are almost double the cost from any other store that carries their products.

 

[bizioto]

Check out this OBd2 Scanner.

I like this model a lot. Very easy to use.

 

[Sackett2]

Ebay has the same model for sale with a buy it now price $100 less then Actron lists it for.

Of course, I'm hoping for a scanner that does both ABS and check engine light. Does this exist?

Eddie

Not that I'm aware of. I don't have one to read abs codes-mine is the top end of the auto x-ray line, about 600.00 To get one that reads abs and OBD2 your talking 2-5 thousand. And that is why I don't have the snap-on one.

The part you don't hear about the high end scan tools is the software upgrade costs. generally 3 different upgrades, USA cars, Japan and Europe, and each upgrade can be 2-4 hundred. Most techs wait and upgrade every 2-3 years, as needed