Scanners

[Lynn]

Definitely technical, not restoration.
I have put this off as long as I can. Getting too many late model cars in the family, and would like to be able to read codes without leaving the driveway. I had a Cadillac DTS for a while and was spoiled by the self diagnosis.

I noticed some of the really cheap ones don't read Toyota. We still have one Toyota in the family (other one was rear ended last week). I was looking at this one on ebay:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/191000099107?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p398 4.m1423.l2649

Must be able to read Ford, BMW, Toyota, Infiniti.
Any comments? Suggestions? What are you guys using?

[PxTx]

http://www.scantool.net/scan-tools/obdlink-mx.html

I like this concept, though metting your requirments could get expensive.

[Lynn]

Trying to keep it under 50 bucks.

[earntaz]

Make sure it is "reprogrammable" just in case you get a newer vehicle ...

[Lynn]

As long as it works on anything made today, I am probably good to go.

I rarely buy anything less than 10 year old. Yeah, I am that cheap.

[PxTx]

I can't imagine anything in the $50 range offering anything more than it's competitors. I used a similar one from Autozone and it is adequate for basic obdii stuff. Found which O2 sensor was bad on the Yukon. Could have probably just used my eyes and saw the harness rubbing the drive shaft though. Interface is laggy and navigation is basic but acceptable.

[dvss1]

You will have to watch out as some of the cheaper scanners don't show live data of the vehicle running. Anything newer than 1996 you will need a OBD2 scanner. This will work on any vechile no matter what make or model.

[Lynn]

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dvss1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You will have to watch out as some of the cheaper scanners don't show live data of the vehicle running. Anything newer than 1996 you will need a OBD2 scanner. This will work on any vechile no matter what make or model. </div></div>

You would think. But some of the cheap scanners, even for OBDII, clearly state they will not scan a Toyota. Not sure why.

I am going to go ahead and pull the trigger on the one I linked to. Will report back. Since I posted, we added a GM car. Just bought a 2003 Buick Century loaded with 33,000 miles (92 year old lady driver) for my son to transport the twin grandsons. I can't believe it, the little buggers turned one year old already. They are so fun.

Thanks for the suggestions.

[parkbrau]

Or why not just use Auto Zones?

[Lynn]

Like I said in the first post, would like to be able to read codes without leaving the driveway.

[68l30]

I've got a real nice hand held unit made by Mac...I think it was a bit over $150? I like the size and ease of use. I can get the model number if you are interested. Not much good for under $50..maybe the app for a smart phone? Guy at work uses one... <<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/dunno.gif


BIG

[Lynn]

I went ahead and bought the ebay unit I referenced. Will report back. I can test it on BMW, Ford, Buick, Toyota, Infiniti, Nissan. Too many late model cars.