Code scanner

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philthyphil

philthyphil

10 Year 15 Year
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Missoula, MT
Code scanner (reader)

I searched for a thread on code scanners and couldn't find anything. Purpose of this thread will be to post info and review different scanners. I know the preference is the Scangauge II and that is all a search will reveal. I'm also aware that the Scangauge II does more than report codes but monitors other systems on the truck. This thread is for those that are curious about other (cheaper) models that can just be kept in the glove box.

I just purchased an Actron Pocketscan from Advanced Autoparts (on sale for $39.99) because that's what is readily available to me and I needed one quicker than could be shipped from the interweb. I don't dare do anything to our 100 without consulting Mud as a reference and I found little info on scanners other that the Scangauge II. Maybe there's a reason for that but surely others do the same. Maybe everybody knows they all do the same thing but I'm new to the computerized truck realm.

I will report back findings/use/compatibility once I've used it but figured I'd get this up now so it gets hit at least 5 times for searchability.

:popcorn:
 
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Did you search for the Ultra Gauge? Similar to Scan Gauage II but cheaper and a few more functions. Can display up to 6 readings at once, while Scan Gauge can only show 4. John
 
I keep an inexpensive Actron in the small tool bag in all my vehicles. All I want to do is read and reset codes if the ECU coughs one up while I'm driving around. It's as important to me as a screwdriver, given today's computer driven cars. I gave my Scangauge II to my son because for me, it was TMI. I may go that route again someday as my LC gets older and needs more TLC.
 
I just searched code scanner and should have likely searched code reader as well. I'm with Sandroad on this, just want to read and clear codes for now and looking for info on such a tool turned up nothing.
 
I love the additional info of the SG2, actually like it better than the Ultra, I think it mounts better in the 100 if you're doing a perma setup.

For you cheapy guys, you can also get the WiFi reader, like an WiFi ELM327 OBD2 and if you have an Android phone get the Torque app. It's a pretty nice setup, and literally invisible once hooked up. It monitors everything the others will, reads codes, etc. but since it's on your phone, it's one more click from searching more info about whatever your code is.
 
I have a LC FZJ100 IFS build in 2007. I did read about ScanGauge II, but unfortunately my brain stopped working after reading following "The ScanGauge family of products are generally fully compatible with vehicles manufactured after 1996" I did NOT read "View a list of known exceptions"
I did order one - but it is (of course) not compatible with my car :bang:
I am now looking into JK Scanner - does anybody have any experience with this unit?
 
nakman said:
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For you cheapy guys, you can also get the WiFi reader, like an WiFi ELM327 OBD2 and if you have an Android phone get the Torque app. It's a pretty nice setup, and literally invisible once hooked up. It monitors everything the others will, reads codes, etc. but since it's on your phone, it's one more click from searching more info about whatever your code is.
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Second this... If you have an Android device, it's a no-brainer. Bluetooth reader can be had for $12 on Amazon. $5 for Torque. Or use it with something like openOBD on your laptop if it has BT...if not get the aforementioned WiFi version...
 
I have a few different ones... SG2, "autel" style unit, Torque via wireless dongle, Dash Command and tech stream.

SG2 is probably the least feature rich but I like that it's a dedicated gauge and mounted to the truck. It's small enough to fit in many places and gives you what you need. Ultra gauge gives more data (in a larger form) but the end of the day I dont need anymore than 4 additional gaages up at one time.
 
Based on the information posted by others here and my use of the Actron Pocketscan today I would say that it did what it needed to and likely all models do the same thing equally, which is read codes. The difference is likely in the extra and how much "MORE" you want you scanner to do. All I want to do is read and clear codes. I don't care for all the gauges and extras available on other models.

Sandroad said:
I keep an inexpensive Actron in the small tool bag in all my vehicles. All I want to do is read and reset codes if the ECU coughs one up while I'm driving around. It's as important to me as a screwdriver, given today's computer driven cars. I gave my Scangauge II to my son because for me, it was TMI. I may go that route again someday as my LC gets older and needs more TLC.
Click to expand...

This seals the deal for me. I just want a tool to tell me what to fix. I wouldn't say it's because I'm cheap I would say it's because I'm just getting into the newer car with computer thing and I don't want to get in too deep too fast. Baby steps. Just because I prefer and own older trucks, nobody should mistake me as a half decent mechanic, I am enjoying the learning process but life demands mean I don't have a lot of time for it. anyway, cheers and this thread has served the purpose I intended. I hope someone else can learn something from it. The difference is in the extras...

:cheers:
 
The Actron UScan claims to read powertrain codes [inc Transmission??] and ABS codes. Is it even possible to read ABS codes through the OBDII port? There's a separate connector in the engine bay for ABS, so how is it integrated into the OBDII data stream? Would be great if it was, just can't quite see how thats possible.
 
APKhaos said:
The Actron UScan claims to read powertrain codes [inc Transmission??] and ABS codes. Is it even possible to read ABS codes through the OBDII port? There's a separate connector in the engine bay for ABS, so how is it integrated into the OBDII data stream? Would be great if it was, just can't quite see how thats possible.
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Don't know for sure, but ABS signals have to be integrated into ECU for correct VSC function as it cuts engine power (in addition to selective corner braking) in a skid, right?
 
Good point Rob. Might be worth a try. Would be nice to have a single source for all codes including trans and ABS.
Would be good to hear if anyone is using the Actron U-Scan on a hundy.
 
if you buy a scanner you might want to get one that can check for sensor readiness as well if you need to pass smog or tech inspections. Learned that the hard way.
 
Do any of these scanner allow one to change the programmable options in the vehicle (e.g., how long the lights stay on after locking the door, whether or not the hitting unlock on key fob unlocks all doors vs. only the driver's door, etc.)?
 
sonk76 said:
Do any of these scanner allow one to change the programmable options in the vehicle (e.g., how long the lights stay on after locking the door, whether or not the hitting unlock on key fob unlocks all doors vs. only the driver's door, etc.)?
Click to expand...

... Looks like I killed the thread... Would still love to hear any thoughts on above?
 
I just posted up on issues I was having with ATRAC, for which my ScanGauge II never detected codes, or cleared them, even on command.

Codes were: C0200 (ABS sensor Passenger wheel), C1223 (ABS System fault), C1335 (Steering angle sensor).

Given this, I'm now wondering how robust the ScanGauge is at detecting these VSC type codes, compared to what I initially thought it could do. I know others have done more research on these, so thought I'd put it out there for the group to consider.

ATRAC couldnt have failed me on worse of a day (tough hill climbs and slick clay at Uwharrie) so I may even go to a standalone pocket scanner if anyone has other recommendations for issues like this.
 
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