Amazing OBD2 ?

[SumpChump]

I have a mid level scanner Actron 9575. It gives a few screens of basic data but I notice NOT transmission temp (2013 Camry AT). Anywhoo, I was browsing online and found what appeared to be a list of potential OBD2 data that was like 30 pages! Is this real? Does OBD2 data on today's cars really output that much?! It was like you could figure out almost anything non suspension related right on a scanner.

Questions:
1. Does ObD2 output THAT many data points?
2. What scanner would be my best next jump up to get trans temp?
3. Separate from question 2 please,
Is there a point or model of diminishing returns? For example , I don't have 10k$ or a toyota scanner and don't need that detail but is there a 'sweet spot'.

 

[The_Eric]

It depends on the car/year and the scan tool. Generally speaking, the newer the vehicle and the more money you spend, the more things you can see.

When you start spending 250.00-500.00 on a scan tool, you'll get ABS and airbag codes/data.

Spend more than that and you'll be able to read manufacturer specific codes and start getting bells and whistles like bi-directional controls so you can power things up via the scan tool for testing purposes. You'll also start getting trouble shooters and wifi and all kinds of other stuff. Some will come equipped with a lab scope even.

In my opinion, the sweet spot would be the 250.00 dollar machine that will read ABS and airbag for the typical do it yourselfer.

 

[daman]

Right it all depends on how deep your pockets are,the more you spend the more info you get.

 

[Doog]

Originally Posted By: SumpChump
I have a mid level scanner Actron 9575. It gives a few screens of basic data but I notice NOT transmission temp (2013 Camry AT). Anywhoo, I was browsing online and found what appeared to be a list of potential OBD2 data that was like 30 pages! Is this real? Does OBD2 data on today's cars really output that much?! It was like you could figure out almost anything non suspension related right on a scanner.

Questions:
1. Does ObD2 output THAT many data points?
2. What scanner would be my best next jump up to get trans temp?
3. Separate from question 2 please,
Is there a point or model of diminishing returns? For example , I don't have 10k$ or a toyota scanner and don't need that detail but is there a 'sweet spot'.


Get one that will read the trans temp sensors in real time. Then you can use it to do trans flushes. That said, I use an Actron IR thermometer to scan the trans pan and that works just as well. OR you can use jumpers in the OBD plug and the dash lights too.

 

[Ramblejam]

Originally Posted By: The_Eric
When you start spending 250.00-500.00 on a scan tool, you'll get ABS and airbag codes/data.


$60 @ Walmart gets you ABS:

 

[Vikas]

only works on some domestic cars.

 

[SumpChump]

Thanks guys, seems like $250 is a number coming up. Any particular models you all like/have experienced? I gues I should post in the tools section...silly me.

 

[Ramblejam]

Originally Posted By: Vikas
only works on some domestic cars.


For $60, it covers ABS on GM, Ford, Chrysler & Toyota -- that works just fine for me.

 

[SumpChump]

It seems ABS codes are a common problem and a common desire for scanners. Maybe I have been very very lucky in the past but what happens? Are ABS codes really common, do they mess up other systems until cleared. Interesting.