I am in the market for a scan tool. I only work on vehicles in my spare time. So, I am not sure which tool to buy. I am looking at two models at Auto zone, both by Actron (I believe) One is a pocket scan tool with plug, a read button and an erase button---Costs 79 bucks. The other is an upgraded model of same it has a readout which tells you the sensor that is shooting the codes.----Cost 149 bucks, do I really need any more than just a reader or would the latter come in handy? Any ideas on scan tools would be appreciated Searcher1
Do you want to read codes and hope you understand them correctly, or would you prefer to know what is being read as it is scanned? I'd love to know, instead of second guessing or continuously rescanning to make sure I read the right codes. I'd like one that plugs into my computer so I can read what it says is there with a bit more ability.
Oh great Now I have to factor in connectivity to the computer, Thanks John Now your gonna make me want the even more upgraded version! When I buy something I go whole hog if there is a use. SO you say ya plug this thing into your computer and it whirrrrs and starts spitting out codes and such? Sounds like a fine gadget to me. I also like the idea of being able to read each sensor in real time, Is that a good thing for your average hobby mechanic?
I don't know, it is a good thing for the average hobby mechanic, but I'd sure like to find out. I'm sure there has to be one within reasonable cost to the average Joe. Now, if we could just get Jim to steer us to where it might be.
There is a wealth of info here on scan tools/software. If at all possible, purchase a scan tool that will access proprietary information. ALL OBD2 scan tools have a generic mode - they will display SAE codes. These are emission system related codes ONLY. If the tool simply reads codes, you still need documentation to tell you what the code is referring to and what the recommended diagnostic procedure is.
Better tools will access proprietary modules (ABS, RCM, DSM, REM, FEM, GEM, ad infinitum) and also allow PID monitoring (parameter indicator data) and even (perhaps) active control states. I can only compare the difference by asking if you would rather pull your cylinder heads using two Crescent wrenches or a full range of combination wrenches and sockets or somewhere in between. Really good tools will allow "flight recordings" and the best best ones will allow adjusting the data capture in relation to the trigger point.
I haven't used all that many different scan tools, but I do see the features I use most.... code scanning is only a small part of their usefullness (is that a word?).
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