OBDII Reader...

[txlandc]

I did a search on this topic but I am wondering what the latest thoughts are. I've got a 96'LC with 140K miles that just started a trouble light signal today. Called the dealership and they want $50 to read the code. Figured that's a good start to paying for a scanner but have no idea what might be the best for minimal $'s. Would like to stay with $100 to $250. Any suggestions?

Or, anyone in Salt Lake City that would be willing to read it??

Thanks.

 

[e9999]

harbor freight, $40 for reader/eraser

 

[Romer]

Most Auto parts stores will read them for FREE. Some don't, call first.

 

[smokethedog]

if you're a gadget geek, check this out: http://www.autoenginuity.com/. Just received my sw and interface for an ipaq today (about $230). Cleared a code 420 with it ( i have an exhaust leak that I think is causing it, and borla is sending me a new exhaust to correct this).

I'm up near ogden if you want to run up the road and check it out. pm me.
randall

 

[woody]

check the Vendor corner, I picked up the one listed in there and installed the software on my laptop...allows you to have a full dashboard setup on the laptop, so you can see things as they operate...also possible to see how close to the min/max values a sensor may be operating at, and perhaps change something before it's fully junked.

$160ish...I think....just need a serial port on your laptop (or usb --> serial adapter)

 

[cheap 40]

I've got the Harbor Freight reader/eraser also, paid $40 for it. Works fine for what I need it to do. It's so easy to use I can clear my pesky 300 code while driving down the road.

Tony

 

[txlandc]

Thanks all. I'll probably grab one of the cheaper ones later today. And Randall, depending on how this works out I might take you up on your offer. I appreciate the help.
Paul

 

[e9999]

yes, one can have the codes read by some Autozones etc, but for $40 I'd rather have one with me on the road that I can use to diagnose a possible problem on the go...

 

[SteveH]

I just cleared a 420 code with a HF cheapie code reader. There are a bazillion code readers out there, but until you get one that can do real-time monitoring of your engine, it looks like most of them just allow you to read and clear a code. In the middle somewhere, are the laptop-plug-in models. There are $150 readers that do no more than the $40 one - they just have dedicated buttons for certain features.

I think the OBD reader industry has done a lousy job of clearly classifying readers into categories to help you figure out which one to buy. So, I used a cheapie and searched this list to find the possible sources of my problem. Good luck!

Steve

 

[PabloVTA]

Would this work for a '94? Or do I have to use the jumper and count the bllinks?