Good "cheap" OBD 2 scan tool?

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Are there any particular models of OBD 2 scan tools that are worth while and not complete junk? I read about a guy who got one of DX and liked it but not sure which model it was.
 
Originally Posted By: HardbodyLoyalist
You might try one of the low-end Actron models. My CP9125 has never let me down. Should be less than $50.


^^ This, that's the one I used before I left it in the Volvo! Works fine.
 
I have the Actron CP9125 and it works fine for Pxxxx codes. However, I recently needed one to read Bxxxx codes (air bag issue) and found out that apparently most readers only read P's.
 
Originally Posted By: HardbodyLoyalist
You might try one of the low-end Actron models. My CP9125 has never let me down. Should be less than $50.


+1

I bought one several years ago for less than $50.

An Ultragauge is another option, but costs about $70. I have one in the xB to monitor fuel economy, and it gives an alarm even when there's a pending code, before it trips the CEL.
 
i dont think there are any cheap ones with live data although i heard there are really cheap knock offs you can buy on the internet that works well
 
Please define "cheap" first. Otherwise, there are guys here who would tell you to buy a used Snap-On Verus instead of a new one to save money.
 
We don't know what the OP is looking for yet. But, if the laptop type is the direction a person wants to pursue, I am interested in the products this company offers:

http://www.scantool.net/

The OBDLink SX (USB)is an upgrade from the ELM27 units and comes with OBDwiz basic software. It can be had on the net for $39 delivered. Prices are much higher if you want bluetooth or WIFI.

Scantool then offers software upgrades if you want more capacity or have vehicle specific needs.

It seems like a very powerful system at very moderate cost (I have no experience with it).

The major advantage is that the company offers support through their forum that the Chinese Elm27 knockoffs don't.

Take a look and help me decide if this might be a good choice.
 
I have a desktop PC, my wife won't like me using her laptop for this.

I do have an Android phone, if that helps.

Define cheap? Wasn't looking to spend more than $20, unless you get tons more features for the money?
 
Originally Posted By: HardbodyLoyalist
You might try one of the low-end Actron models. My CP9125 has never let me down. Should be less than $50.


I have one of those and it works fine. Got it at AAP using a coupon code and it was cheap money.
 
Last edited:
Originally Posted By: 901Memphis
I have a desktop PC, my wife won't like me using her laptop for this.

I do have an Android phone, if that helps.

Define cheap? Wasn't looking to spend more than $20, unless you get tons more features for the money?
Since you have Android phone, all you need is $15-$25 bluetooth dongle and $5 for Torque Pro application.

Look at Amazon and find the dongle which has highest ratings and still priced cheap. They are all made in China but some are better than others.

You can also use Torque Lite application which is free.
 
Originally Posted By: Vikas
Originally Posted By: 901Memphis
I have a desktop PC, my wife won't like me using her laptop for this.

I do have an Android phone, if that helps.

Define cheap? Wasn't looking to spend more than $20, unless you get tons more features for the money?
Since you have Android phone, all you need is $15-$25 bluetooth dongle and $5 for Torque Pro application.

Look at Amazon and find the dongle which has highest ratings and still priced cheap. They are all made in China but some are better than others.

You can also use Torque Lite application which is free.


This.

Great little tool.
 
As far as I know, those seems to be the highest rated adapters on Amazon. I took a gamble for $15 on ebay and that too worked fine but it is lot safer to go with established name from Amazon. Look at the bad reviews and see if the seller responds to them. That way your risk is minimized.
 
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