OBD II Scanner

[Robert S.]

Who makes the best OBD II scanner for use at home? Besides the 99 Vette, I've got a 2005 Honda, 2004 Expedition, and a 2001 Caddy. Would like to use on all vehicles. Looking for something under $500.

Thanks

[Joe L.]

Re: OBD II Scanner

Who makes the best OBD II scanner for use at home? Besides the 99 Vette, I've got a 2005 Honda, 2004 Expedition, and a 2001 Caddy. Would like to use on all vehicles. Looking for something under $500.

Thanks

Robert-----


I have an Innova 3140 which is both an OBD I and OBD II scanner. It is supplied with connector cords for just about every vehicle on the road. It does not work for most anti-lock brake system faults, though. I have been extremely happy with it. I don't recall what I paid for it but it was well under $500.

[Robert S.]

Re: OBD II Scanner

Thanks Joe.

[Steve L.]

Re: OBD II Scanner

I've got the Innova 3160. Although they state that it does not read ABS, it turns out that it does read abs codes but it doesn't give the abs notes. To decipher the abs codes you need to go to the service manual.

[Edward J.]

Re: OBD II Scanner

Bob, A Scan tool is a nice piece of equipment, but under stand that deciphering the data is something that takes years of experience. if you think you can grasp it, go a scan tool that can do bi-directional controls( this will activate relays, cooling fans, solenoids, injectors, coil on plug ignition coils, among other items). This will aid you in repairing some trouble codes.

Other wise just a code puller tool can be had for cheap money, These type of tools scan generally OBDII cars from 96 up.A OBDI OR OBDII Trouble codes can be pulled from the Dia. connector under dash by jumping a couple of pins.

another quick note is the scan tool is not a tool that can always tell you exactly what the problem may be.

[Paul J.]

Re: OBD II Scanner

I've got the Innova 3160. Although they state that it does not read ABS, it turns out that it does read abs codes but it doesn't give the abs notes. To decipher the abs codes you need to go to the service manual.

My Innova 3160 reads ABS codes for full size Chevy pickups (around model years early 90's through 2000+), and Chrysler products late 90's through 2005?. It also reads several other models but I don't remember which. The scanner tells you what the code means on the screen, which makes it a snap. If you need it, the scanner will also record real time data. This is a true "shadetree tool", and much easier to use than my AutoTap.

It also reads almost all US and most foreign trouble codes (DTCs), including Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Volvo, and others.

I've used this scanner recently to replace left and right front ABS sensors, and to rebuild an ABS pump (all on different vehicles). They cost around $159 at Amazon.