Cheap OBD II scanner

y_p_w · Sep 17, 2013

I decided to get one after my CEL went on. I think it was because I didn't completely tighten my gas cap, but it's not resetting yet and I understand that it typically will after a hundred miles or so for an EVAP error. I figure the light will go off, but the error code will hold like the last time the CEL went on.

Anyone have experience with these cheapie scanners? I figured out where the connector is.

Once I got screwed over for a one-hour diagnostic to detect a spark plug error at $100/hr. If I'd known that I would have taken it to someone else, but I was desperate to get it repaired.

I got this one:

http://www.amazon.com/Autel-MaxiScan-MS300-Diagnostic-Vehicles/dp/B001LHVOVK

Donald · Sep 17, 2013

It should be fine for your needs, but so would free checks at AZ.

If you find you need a more sophisticated one, you have not spent a lot on your starter.

eljefino · Sep 17, 2013

$17 to not have to leave the house and drive to AZ? Worth it once!

Sayjac · Sep 17, 2013

^^^^Agree with above. Once you get the code(s) go to Google look it up and find out what it means. That's what I do with my Actron Pocket Scan. Works out fine.

Wolf359 · Sep 17, 2013

Get an ELM 327 bluetooth scanner. They're usually anywhere from $10-$20. There's one on Amazon, the BAFX one that's about $20 that gets good reviews, but for a cheap one that doesn't work on apple products, there's one for about $10 at:

http://www.fatwallet.com/forums/hot-deals/1299148/

You just get the android app called Torque for $5 that will scan the codes for you. Does a lot more than some of the more expensive dedicated scanners.

y_p_w · Sep 17, 2013

Originally Posted By: eljefino
$17 to not have to leave the house and drive to AZ? Worth it once!

I understand that it's not possible in California because some mechanic's association sued over it. I think some chain auto repair places advertise that they'll check it for free - especially AAMCO.

michaelluscher · Sep 17, 2013

Do you have an Android phone or tablet?

If so, $24 Bluetooth BAFX OBD-II reader on Amazon is good, but unlike the cheaper Chinese ones, has a modicum of quality and a warranty.
+$5 for Torque pro, pending your testing with Torque free works well, for under $30, you've got a very good diagnostic scanner.

Amazon OBD2

TechnoLoGs · Sep 17, 2013

My Actron cost $60. Works great.

Chris142 · Sep 17, 2013

Azone can't pull codes in ca because ca law prohibits then for emission reason's. I just turn my jeeps key on 3x and it Spits the code out

huffmuds9320 · Sep 17, 2013

I have that Autel OBD II scanner, got it a year or two ago. So the one I have might be a little older version but looks similar. Works just fine, easy to use and resets the CEL. Used it a bunch of times and on both my cars and my friends cars without issues. Only thing is that it shows the code so you have to look it in the book or online what it refers to.

y_p_w · Sep 17, 2013

Originally Posted By: Chris142
Azone can't pull codes in ca because ca law prohibits then for emission reason's. I just turn my jeeps key on 3x and it Spits the code out

I think I've heard of that. That's where you just sit there and count how many times the light flashes? I understand that can also only display a single trouble code.

97tbird · Sep 17, 2013

I'd get an ultra gauge - scans and displays a lot of data real time. Can keep an eye on coolant temp etc

Wolf359 · Sep 21, 2013

Originally Posted By: y_p_w
Originally Posted By: Chris142
Azone can't pull codes in ca because ca law prohibits then for emission reason's. I just turn my jeeps key on 3x and it Spits the code out

I think I've heard of that. That's where you just sit there and count how many times the light flashes? I understand that can also only display a single trouble code.

That might be for OBDI which is pre-1996 cars. OBDII was for 1996 and after.

y_p_w · Oct 1, 2013

Got it delivered last week. Initially didn't really do much with it other than try it out on my wife's car.

Borrowing someone's car while they're on vacation (they always complain about the batteries on their cars getting weak), and the CEL went on. I checked it and it had two EVAP error codes - the same one. I figured I'd just reset and if it comes back I know it's a real problem.

It's pretty basic. Two buttons sort of makes it clunky but not all that hard to use. There was no instruction on how to power down, so I figured the best I could do was make sure it was idle and I just turn off the ignition. I can't imagine that the similar ones selling for up to $70 do anything more although I wouldn't be surprised if they're better made. I saw some at Harbor Freight that looked to be just about as cheaply made for $50.

I'll eventually try it on my own car.

Cheap OBD II scanner

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