What OBD-II Scanner to use???

The Actron unit may work, although I think I have heard of some issues with these not connecting to Subarus. I could be wrong though and it might have been a different brand. I believe the Actrons are available at auto parts stores so as long as they will let you return it if it doesn't work you can try one. Personally I'm a fan of the AutoXray units, you can check out their products at

I currently have their top-of-the-line EZ-Scan 6000 which is a really nice tool, but if you only require a code reader for occasional use one of their less expensive scanners will do the job nicely.

Just saw this one at Wal-Mart for under $100. They mention Subaru on the code lookup database.

Blair

Why spend the money for a unit you'll use once or twice? Most auto parts stores like Auto Zone, etc., will read off the code for free.

Andy, I like the CarChip device. It's the size of a matchbox, flush-mounts into the OBD-II port (a little wire bail is flipped up to pull it out), and stays there while you drive. Not only can it read and reset trouble codes, but it also can take a snapshot of selectable engine parameters (date and time-stamped) as often as every 5 seconds while you drive, and store it in its internal memory.

To view the logged information, you pull the CarChip from your car, attach it to your PC or laptop with the supplied USB cable, download the information and display it. And, software and firmware updates are available free at the manufacturer's site.

See it at

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Back when I bought the CarChipE/X at AutoZone, it was a serial port version that requires a wall wart for power when it's attached to your PC; it works fine with my 2001 Forester. The new versions use USB instead, so I imagine they get their power from the PC while attached to the PC, so will be even more convenient.

Wayne