Need a good OBD2
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rivermobster
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OTC. Does every make. Works great.
Xstream
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monkeyswrench
To The Rescue!
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The Innova is good for reading and clearing codes, works really good actually. It does some of the modules, but has issues sometimes with ABS stuff, and I don't think the 5610 speaks "German" well...it will give you smog/drive ability codes, but not much else with Benz and BMW.
Now, the advantages of the bigger scanners...I have an older OTC, only flashed up to 2016 I believe. Scanners like that give you a lot more live info. You can watch lean conditions and misfires in real time. Most of them can also command functions, as well as seeing parameters. They can show you both Temps and pressure, as well as sending unit voltage. Handy to see if a short or bad sensor is lying to the computer.
So, it really depends on how in depth you want to get on repairs. For the "Big" scanners, Autel has some pretty nice ones, and 1/3 the price of tool truck ones. They also have free updates, Snap-on tags you about 500$ I believe for annual updates. Buyer beware on buying used tool truck ones. They are registered, and if a guy sells it before it's paid off, they can brick the thing on an update if they want
Now, the advantages of the bigger scanners...I have an older OTC, only flashed up to 2016 I believe. Scanners like that give you a lot more live info. You can watch lean conditions and misfires in real time. Most of them can also command functions, as well as seeing parameters. They can show you both Temps and pressure, as well as sending unit voltage. Handy to see if a short or bad sensor is lying to the computer.
So, it really depends on how in depth you want to get on repairs. For the "Big" scanners, Autel has some pretty nice ones, and 1/3 the price of tool truck ones. They also have free updates, Snap-on tags you about 500$ I believe for annual updates. Buyer beware on buying used tool truck ones. They are registered, and if a guy sells it before it's paid off, they can brick the thing on an update if they want
TimeBandit
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I have an Autel MK808BT I use mainly for its bidirectional ability to retract electronic parking brakes to replace rear brake pads.
It can read most systems on most cars, but there is always something missing.... but I'm not willing to buy a scan tool that costs $1500 and is $500/year to update.
It does a lot, no cable, has a bluetooth dongle, updates are $150/year and they sell for less than $500.
the model with a cable is a bit cheaper:
www.jbtools.com
It can read most systems on most cars, but there is always something missing.... but I'm not willing to buy a scan tool that costs $1500 and is $500/year to update.
It does a lot, no cable, has a bluetooth dongle, updates are $150/year and they sell for less than $500.
the model with a cable is a bit cheaper:
Shop All Tools and Equipment at JB Tools | JB Tools
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lbhsbz
Putting on the brakes
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If you limit things to 4 makes, Foxwell NT510 is a small unit and cheap ($200)…includes enhanced software for 1 make, and you can purchase software for up to 3 more makes…I think $75 each. Has bi-directional controls and is very capable for what it is, but support sucks and it has some glitches. Also small screen and graphing is horrible.
I also have a Cando C-Pro (Cando is pretty well known in the HD market). Excellent tool, I’d put it up there with the Launch and Autel. As far as I can tell, free updates, great graphing, bi-directional controls, but about $800. It’s Bluetooth so you need to keep it charged, but it’s basically a tablet with internet so much more user friendly.
I also have a Cando C-Pro (Cando is pretty well known in the HD market). Excellent tool, I’d put it up there with the Launch and Autel. As far as I can tell, free updates, great graphing, bi-directional controls, but about $800. It’s Bluetooth so you need to keep it charged, but it’s basically a tablet with internet so much more user friendly.
AzMandella
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This is what I use . Software that you load on your laptop and comes with a 20' (I think ) USG cable with OBDII interface . Do anything the dealer can.
www.autoenginuity.com
OE-Level Coverage - autoenginuity
Coverage, Coverage, Coverage Independent service shops and vehicle tuners require more information than what OBDII can provide to do their job effectively. Since the OBDII standard covers only emissions-related powertrain systems and sensors, there is a lot information you won't be able to see...
lbhsbz
Putting on the brakes
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This is what I use . Software that you load on your laptop and comes with a 20' (I think ) USG cable with OBDII interface . Do anything the dealer can.
OE-Level Coverage - autoenginuity
Coverage, Coverage, Coverage Independent service shops and vehicle tuners require more information than what OBDII can provide to do their job effectively. Since the OBDII standard covers only emissions-related powertrain systems and sensors, there is a lot information you won't be able to see...
I have an older version of that and it’s a gigantic pain in the ass…first, a laptop is too big to set somewhere on a road test and watch…smaller handhelds are much better.
Second, to buy software for everything gets pricey.
Third, at least the early versions almost require you to be an IT guy to effectively use it…
Magic Mike
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I usually just go to Vatozone and borrow one…
