OBD2 Scanner

[BillP603]

I bought this cable:
Amazon.com: Crescent USB OBD2/EOBD Multi-Protocol Car Diagnostic Tool Auto Scanner: Automotive

And use the freeware version on this program:
EasyObdII - ScanTool.net OBD-II Elmscan Interface Software (Powered by CubeCart)

Just plug into a laptop and it can run live data and see code history. When software gets upgraded there is no new hardware needed. There are other freeware products out there as well.

 

[Robert_in_NY]

I bought this cable:
Amazon.com: Crescent USB OBD2/EOBD Multi-Protocol Car Diagnostic Tool Auto Scanner: Automotive

And use the freeware version on this program:
EasyObdII - ScanTool.net OBD-II Elmscan Interface Software (Powered by CubeCart)

Just plug into a laptop and it can run live data and see code history. When software gets upgraded there is no new hardware needed. There are other freeware products out there as well.

Does that cable work with all vehicles or do you need adaptors or different cables?

I deal with almost all Fords and while I don't have too many problems it would be nice to scan my own vehicles at home.

 

[texasjohn]

I have HF scanner...has worked and reset codes for me about once a year since purchase.

I'd recommend it and use your coupon on it if that is best application of coupon for your needs.

 

[crazyal]

I bought this cable:
Amazon.com: Crescent USB OBD2/EOBD Multi-Protocol Car Diagnostic Tool Auto Scanner: Automotive

And use the freeware version on this program:
EasyObdII - ScanTool.net OBD-II Elmscan Interface Software (Powered by CubeCart)

Just plug into a laptop and it can run live data and see code history. When software gets upgraded there is no new hardware needed. There are other freeware products out there as well.

EasyOdbII says it's windows 7 compatible. I've thought about getting the BlueTooth version over the USB cable type but just haven't gotten around to it.

 

[crazyal]

I stumbled across this while looking around over at Amazon.

Amazon.com: Launch CReader V scan tool/code reader (437001): Automotive

It's a stand alone unit with an LCD screen that shows real time data and will graph it. Under $70.

It's got a USB port and cable so it may work with the laptop software as well. Only one review though.

 

[hawkeye08]

I use OBD-2 Vehicle Explorer Scan Tool Browser. It was the only one I found for reasonable price a few years ago when I had to check the camshaft offset (set distributor base) on 98 Yukon. I did not get the one for the latest vehicles but can up grade. It uses a laptop so the display is plenty big. If it does not cover your vehicle, he can most likely add it (he added mine).

 

[tommu56]

I have an Actron

similar to this one

http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_AutoScanner-OBD-II-Code-Reader-Actron_99994272-P_N3389_T|GRP2018____

 

[Diamondpilot]

I stumbled across this while looking around over at Amazon.

Amazon.com: Launch CReader V scan tool/code reader (437001): Automotive

It's a stand alone unit with an LCD screen that shows real time data and will graph it. Under $70.

It's got a USB port and cable so it may work with the laptop software as well. Only one review though.

That looks like a nice unit for the money. I like the bigger screen.

Thanks

Chris

 

[BillP603]

Does that cable work with all vehicles or do you need adaptors or different cables?

I deal with almost all Fords and while I don't have too many problems it would be nice to scan my own vehicles at home.

I have used the cable on a 2000 Ford F150 and a 2004 Chevy Venture, and a friend has used it on a 2005 Subaru, it has worked fine for all of them. I think it is some of the European vehicles (Volvo/BMW) that do not use the standard pin layout.

EasyOdbII says it's windows 7 compatible. I've thought about getting the BlueTooth version over the USB cable type but just haven't gotten around to it.

I have only used XP so far with this program. I have seen some other apps for iPhones/android programs online that look pretty cool, but I still have a 'dumb phone'

 

[dstig1]

Chris I'm disappointed! With all your vehicle working you do, I'd think you'd be going big time here. I picked up the AutoEnginuity a couple years back for my laptop. Covers everything and then some, but you need specific mosules by manufacturer for anything beyond the OBD2 codes (but that covers a lot by itself as you can read the engine OBD2 codes from any make).

AutoEnginuityｮ - OBD2 Scan Tool - Professional PC and PDA Diagnostics

Yeah, a bit more than $50...