OBD2 Scanner

[dstig1]

Last time I went to autozone and had them read the codes, I ended up replacing some expensive parts that weren't the problem.
I did buy a scanner at costco since then, but have yet to use it.

Ahh Grasshopper, You make one critical flaw! It is fine to let Autozone read the codes for you. But NEVER listen to what the 18 yr old drop out tells you the problem is. Write down the complete code number (letter plus 4 digit number) and Google it. Or go to a forum for that brand vehicle.

Before I got my reader software, I had Autozone read a code for me once. I forget the actual code but the kid said "O2 sensor. That's pretty common." I went "Ya shure", wrote down the code, and checked it out and of course it had nothing to do with O2 sensors. It was for an EGR sensor. Replaced that and good to go.

Take the code(s) and run screaming LALALALALALALA so you don't accidentally listen to them.

 

[crashz]

I think the Autozone training includes: "Tell the customer that the O2 sensors need to be changed, regardless of the trouble code."

A couple years ago I had the CEL light come on in my 04 GMC. I went the Advanced Auto, and they could not get the code reader to work. I bought an Actron that they had on the shelf and it too would not work. The kid that helped me actually suggested that the O2 sensors controled the CPU, and they were probably faulty. A little more diagnosis and I found the culprit: a blown cigarette lighter fuse. That fuse also powers the OBDII port and after 100 cycles or so, it will trigger a CEL.

Good diagnosis DP. I'm glad you did not fall into the trap of immediately replacing the components that are producing the trouble code. While the readers are great tools, they are only as good as the user.

 

[VTFireftr]

I bought a code reader a few years back on eBay. I can't rememebr the name, but it has worked flawlrssly reading and restting codes when needed.

I found a free app on the Apple App store called Fuzzy Codes that will help decipher what each codes means once it appears on your reader.

Almost forgot, if anyone is going to get a code reader, make sure it is CAN II compatible. Especially if you have a diesel engine.

Happy 2001 all!

Marc

 

[hawkeye08]

I bought a code reader a few years back on eBay. I can't rememebr the name, but it has worked flawlrssly reading and restting codes when needed.

I found a free app on the Apple App store called Fuzzy Codes that will help decipher what each codes means once it appears on your reader.

Almost forgot, if anyone is going to get a code reader, make sure it is CAN II compatible. Especially if you have a diesel engine.

Happy 2001 all!

Marc

Happy 2011 also!

 

[lostcause]

i just picked up an actron 9575. i had done a little looking and it was going to be between the actron 9575 and the equus 3130. last night i was checking online for a car clutch at places that are local, and i noticed that advance auto had a 20% off everything sale that ended last night. i checked and they had the actron for $99.99, but with the 20% off promo it was $79.99 and they even did free shipping on orders over $75.00. it wouldn't let me order one to be shipped - i guess they were out of stock, but it did let me order online and pick it up at the local store, so i ordered it and stopped by and picked it up when i was in town today. it looks like they have some sort of online promo going all the time, so they might be a consistently cheap place to get one.

i haven't used it yet - the garage has a few things torn down inside and i don't want to work outside i know one of my trucks has codes in it for the evap system and i wouldn't be surprised to find some for the other truck too, once i get them into the garage.

 

[brokenot]

Good call on the Advance Auto deal. I haven't purchased from them yet, but there are almost always promos and discounts from Advance posted on Slickdeals....here's a link:

http://slickdeals.net/sdsearch.php?forumchoice[]=9&search=advance+auto&mode=forum&showposts=0&sdsearch_archive=0&firstpost=1

 

[NIdaho]

Hey Guys,
Just want to make you aware of another one that I saw some information on just the other day. It is a wireless (Bluetooth) unit made by Garmin to work with a number of their Nuvi GPS systems. it plugs on to the data connector and then you can set up the GPS to do custom gauges or read codes or realtime data .

ecoRoute

If you already have a compatible GPS unit it looks like a pretty slick addition.

 

[One Acre Farm]

I have read all the posts about code readers, and have a question. I am leaning towards the Equus 3030. It is at the price point I want and it seems simple enough. My question is, after running a test, what is the steps to get a printout to explain solutions to fix the problem it finds? It looks like that report costs $15 and I am not even sure it does this. Does anyone have any experience with a code reader that can generate a report and solution?

 

[Clint S]

I know the OP has purchased his , but I will add my thoughts. If you have a Chevy pick up get one with ABS reading. Those sensors get dirty and/or fail all the time. They are easy to change if you know which one it is. Other vehicles it is not so much of issue.

 

[Diamondpilot]

If I had to do it all over again I would get the same one I ended up with or a Acton unit. They are just too simple, accurate, portable, ect not to have one.

Chris