Computer code readers, how do I chose?

[cruiserpilot]

So have a check engine light on the RAV4. Looks like I might be getting a Cummins truck for working.
What do you all use? What do you recommend? I hate cheap so I don't want to hear about the cheapest unless it is of very high quality. I know nothing about them, but the time has come.
Opinions on ease of use, software / firmware upgrades and are they able to distinguish codes and
what level of accuracy can I expect? I'm not above spending to get something that will stand the test of time. Rubber casing, waterproof? Durable, so it can ride around in tool bag.
Anyhow, your help will be appreciated.

 

[seapotato]

I've had a $50 one for 5+ years. Clears the codes from mel's crv, and from whatever the guy at work has, cuz he always seems to borrowing it...
Princess auto special but it does everything I need.
I might try the wireless ones that connect to a smart phone if it ever s***s the bed.

 

[45Kevin]

I have a wireless OBD2 plug-in and use Torque Pro on my tablet. Works great.
I think it gives more options than the handheld units.

 

[cruiserpilot]

My friend just recommended the Autel 802. Updated link to Amazon here.
https://www.amazon.ca/Autel-Scanner...BS,+SRS,+Engine,+Transmission,+EPB,+Oil+Reset

He is a heavy duty mechanic with 2 VW's and a Discovery. Had an '01 Dodge dually. So he's pretty well versed in them.

I'll check to see about the wireless option now, seems like a good idea.

I have a wireless OBD2 plug-in and use Torque Pro on my tablet.

I'll look that program up. Would they have an iPhone app for the Torque pro?

 

[cruiserpilot]

This Autel is looking good. It's reasonable price and certainly covers all requirements.
It is adaptable for the vehicles with separate modules but my RAV4 isn't new enough for
that. I'm being schooled now by my buddy.

 

[45Kevin]

I'll look that program up. Would they have an iPhone app for the Torque pro?

I use Android devices, but apparently it works on Apples as well.

‎TORQUE OBD2 : OBDII SCAN TOOL

 

[bikersmurf]

I picked up one from Canadian Tire that does the job.

I’d look for one with more advanced features that’ll tell you temperatures and other data rather than just a code.

I don’t know if some will give you ABS info, but mine doesn’t and it’s been a pain solving problems blind.

Wish I could tell you which to buy, but I don’t know.

 

[slowandsteady BJ]

My friend just recommended the Autel 802. Updated link to Amazon here.
https://www.amazon.ca/Autel-Scanner-Diaglink-Version-Transmission/dp/B06XXBG8ZG/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1540658932&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=Autel+OBDII+OBD2+Code+Reader+Diaglink+(DIY+Version+of+MD802)+All+Systems/Modules+Diagnostic+for+ABS,+SRS,+Engine,+Transmission,+EPB,+Oil+Reset

He is a heavy duty mechanic with 2 VW's and a Discovery. Had an '01 Dodge dually. So he's pretty well versed in them.

I'll check to see about the wireless option now, seems like a good idea.


I'll look that program up. Would they have an iPhone app for the Torque pro?

The Autel 802 will do just fine. Did you buy the Dodge we discussed?
If you buy a newer diesel with a DPF, get a scanner that can force a re-gen. Or better yet don't buy a diesel with a DPF.

 

[cruiserpilot]

The Autel 802 will do just fine. Did you buy the Dodge we discussed?
If you buy a newer diesel with a DPF, get a scanner that can force a re-gen. Or better yet don't buy a diesel with a DPF.

That is the one my friend uses and recommended as well.

 

[Toshi38]

Just an FYI the link you posted isn't the MD802 ... its the software limited version that you have to pay per vehicle. I wouldn't be shocked if you can easily hack it but it's prob worth knowing.

The full version is here: https://www.amazon.ca/MaxiDiag-MD80...=1540721966&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=MD802&psc=1

 

[cruiserpilot]

Thanks, it's damned confusing. They look so much alike, hard to tell them apart
I'm in CT right now, and I was jumping between .com and .ca amazon.

 

[PeeZed]

I have a Snap On version that only goes up to 2009 vehicles. Feel free to drop by anytime and plug it in.

 

[PG45er]

Definitely get a scanner, not just a code reader. It can really help to get real time readings when diagnosing problems. With a code reader you can end up replacing a sensor just to find out another issue is causing a code for a particular sensor. I've got the Autel AL439 and happy with it. I think it was $100 at P.A. It won't do a forced burn for a DPF but I think you have to get into pretty pricey units to do that.

 

[cruiserpilot]

Is this the one? having a volt meter too is a really good idea.
https://www.amazon.ca/Autel-AL439-A...F8&qid=1540842749&sr=8-3&keywords=Autel+AL439

 

[PG45er]

Yup,that's the one I have.

 

[ForealBoreal]

I gotta find one that will do the TPMS system as well.
Hopefully buy one device and forget about it for awhile.

 

[cruiserpilot]

I gotta find one that will do the TPMS system as well.
Hopefully buy one device and forget about it for awhile.

What kind of truck / car are you testing? What does TPMS stand for?

 

[PG45er]

Tire pressure monitoring system.
Here's my TPMS.

 

[ForealBoreal]

2017 Ni**an Titan XD
Tire Pressuring Monitor System

 

[cruiserpilot]

OK, had to look it up. They have a TPMS in the header on the website. I remember reading that one of the scanners
monitored TPMS. PG45'r has it about right for me.
Autel