Hi Folks :

I came over from the Second Gen TL group to ask a more general automotive question. Hopefully an auto tech will jump in and offer some expert advice.

I'm in the market for a ODBII scanner to avoid the $120+ cost just to read the codes and have researched the various model types. It seems the major price difference seems to be real-time display or not. They all seem to be able to manage the codes (ex. Equus 3160)

In parallel, I've also been looking at MPG, HP and other engine performance related data display units. (ex.ScanGauge II)

What I can't seem to figure out is, will the real-time code readers also display engine performance data like the ScanGauge II ? Also, will the upper end scanners decode ABS codes which cause the "TCS" light to come on.

Thanks in advance to all those who reply !

smartypants

 

Just buy a ScanGauge II. I have one and it's great for clearing codes as well as the other stuff you want above.

 

Actron makes a few sub $100 scanners. Check Amazon

 

meh, do like everyone else around here. check engine light=trade in, LOL

 

i have an inexpensive $50 actron one, as long as i can get the codes, i can find the problem online.

 

Same here, not to mention most codes are fluke things or Evap related, which 90% of the time just need to be cleared. It makes little sense for a hobbyist to spend big bucks on a OBDII scanner when we have the web and more then likely will end up loaning it to friends more then we use it ourselves.

In the past 3 years I've thrown one code with my S2k, I looped it in a parking lot trying to safely find the slip point of the car, some traction sensor malfunction code, cleared it and was good to go. With that said my scanner has probably been used over a 100 times in that same 3 year period, a code scanner can make you popular with your GM driving friends.

 

Thanks to all those who replied.

I should have mentioned that within the 2nd GenTL group, we're pretty much up on what codes are good and bad and the silliness (not to mention the revenue opportunities) of the CEL codes. I also know how to hard re-set the codes but they just keep coming back and I have no way of confirming what the codes actually are.

What I'm more interested in is the scanners themselves. Yes, I can go and buy a $70 unit just to read and reset the codes. However, I know the more this tool does, the more utility (value ?) it will have.

Anyone able to answer my original questions ?

smartypants

 

Most wont read srs/abs codes (those units are much more expensive). Real time data is only good if you know what your looking at. Im not sure but i would believe they would tell the same data as the scangauge2 does though as far as speed, temp ect.

 

I have a < $100 one from Wal-Mart. Works well for me.

 

Hi All :

So, based on the replies, the cheaper units with less functions seem to be what I should get and forget about the MPG and other performance data ?

smartypants