Code reader options

[Number_35]

Guys, I've been considering buying a dedicated code reader - to this point I've been using a ScanGauge, which is good enough most of the time but not ideal.

PartSource has the Innova OBD 3100 on sale for $129.99, and the 3120 for $229.99. Both are $100 off.

Princess Auto has the AutoLink AL439 on sale for $99.99, which is also $100 off.

All prices are in C$, and 13% sales taxes would apply.

Who has experience with any of these? As well, if the Innova 3100 and the AutoLink AL439 are comparable, I'd be willing to pay the $30 extra for the Innova if it's made in Canada, the US, Europe, Japan, or Taiwan.

Thanks in advance.

 

[WyrTwister]

What are you wanting / needing to do with a code reader ? If just read & clear codes , a device can be had for less than the $ 50 I paid at AutoZone , several years ago . Like most electronics , they have come down in price .

If you need live data and all the other whistles and bells , then I do not know what you will end up paying .

Best of luck to you ,

 

[ZebRuaj]

I was in the same boat. I have Torque Pro and a cheap $30 scanner.

I just picked up the Autel ML619 for $120 off Amazon. Needed ABS and SRS

I should have picked up the ML629 for added transmission codes. Same price right now with the Amazon coupon.

 

[thescreensavers]

Basic Bear bones OBD2 Live info and codes, you can just use a cheap ELM327 adapter. If you want more detailed info then it will be more expensive as mentioned above.

I use an app called Torque on my android phone works well for my needs.

 

[Number_35]

I should add that I'm one of those dinosaurs that doesn't have a smartphone of any sort.

 

[Wolf359]

I'd say the Autel Diaglink, same as the MD802, but it only does one car line. Each additional car line is an extra $10. Supposed to read all manufacturer subsystems like ABS/SRS/transmission etc.

https://www.amazon.com/Autel-Diaglink-OBDII-OBD2-Transmission/dp/B07BM2GCH6

 

[benjy]

what are you using it on? some are better than others depending on the vehicle-s you want to scan

 

[das_peikko]

I have used the Innova 3100. It's an excellent code reader and built very tough.

 

[Number_35]

Originally Posted by benjy
what are you using it on? some are better than others depending on the vehicle-s you want to scan
Our car is a 2009 Mazda 5, and I also look after a 2009 Kia Sedona. I also help out friends and family members with a variety of vehicles, imports and domestics.

 

[StevieC]

I have the Autel MD-805 and I love it. Does everything I need both generic and manufacturer specific codes from all on-board systems. It can do graphing & misfire counters for all makes.
I got it on sale from Amazon.ca and it came with lifetime updates. (Frequently put on sale)

I use this most of the time and only use my dad's professional grade one when I need to do things like idle-relearn etc.

https://www.amazon.ca/MaxiDiag-Upgraded-Version-Transmission-Diagnostic/dp/B07BXPLJ3K

 

[danthaman1980]

I have an Innova 3160b, and I like it a lot - but I NEVER use it unless I need ABS or SRS.

My RECO - if you don't need ABS+SRS, get a BAFX ELM327 bluetooth adapter + an app. I use Torque Pro ($5 on Android). Great UI, insanely customizable, great live data tracking, etc... and the overall cost for the adapter+the app will be like $30. The only drawback to this setup is that it is a bit slow to read and clear CEL codes.

AFTER you spend the $30 on the bluetooth/app setup, if you figure out you need more (ABS+SRS or a dedicated code reader), you'll likely need to jump up to the $150+ readers to get ABS/SRS/OBD Live data, etc. Innova makes good products, I've heard good things about the Autel readers as well.