Handheld Scanners

[ourfamo4]

Checking to see if anyone has first hand experience with some of the hand held scanners out there. I'm looking for one that covers Asian & Domestic models, hopefully one that covers ABS modules also.

I looked at Snap-on scanners on E-bay but the cartridges seem to stop at the early 1990's, so that will do me no good. I have no problem spending $100-$200 if it will meet all of my needs.

I have my VW/Audi & BMW bases covered, so no need to worry there.

 

[Donald]

Originally Posted By: ourfamo4
Checking to see if anyone has first hand experience with some of the hand held scanners out there. I'm looking for one that covers Asian & Domestic models, hopefully one that covers ABS modules also.

I looked at Snap-on scanners on E-bay but the cartridges seem to stop at the early 1990's, so that will do me no good. I have no problem spending $100-$200 if it will meet all of my needs.

I have my VW/Audi & BMW bases covered, so no need to worry there.


Consider one for a PC? Get one that handles CAN. Some things like ABS maybe be manufacturers specific codes.

 

[daman]

http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1411781#Post1411781

 

[sciphi]

ScanGaugeII is scan gaugish. Basic engine information, and pulls codes. Handles CAN.

A nice trip gauge, and it's in the car all the time. But not a full-fledged scan tool.

 

[MGregoir]

Innova 3160 does ABS/transmissions on domestics, live data, saves streams for playback, has PC connectivity and an online troubleshooter.

I just ordered one and will update once I use it for how good it is. It was $240 off of eBay new in box.

 

[The Critic]

I don't think you'll find a decent scan tool for a few hundred bucks. At that price, at best you are getting a code reader.

 

[tvl]

Originally Posted By: The Critic
I don't think you'll find a decent scan tool for a few hundred bucks. At that price, at best you are getting a code reader.


Nowadays, you can find a decent scan tool for a reasonable price ............. at least in my opinion.

Check this one out: Innova 3160

I have one of these and for the price, I believe it offers a lot of useful fetures other than simply reading fault codes. Again, my 2 cents!

 

[The Critic]

It says that it reads ABS codes for GM, Ford and Chrysler, yet my 1996 Saturn isn't one of the vehicles on the list. HUH?

But yes, that does look like a good value for $250, but by no means is it as good as a Snap On Solus PRO or a Verus.

 

[johnd]

I've had good luck with Autotap (http://www.autotap.com/). I use it with a laptop but I think it is available for a Palm too. It is a "read only' application, you can't change anything in the computer with it like some devices.

 

[TexasHonda]

I have used Harrison R&D OBDScan software, hardware, and a laptop for 5-6 years and am very satisfied. Perhaps not quite as handy as a handheld dedicated device, but it works very well and price is similar; $140. I spent ~$100 on a older used IBM laptop. Harrison is very good w/ software/firmware updates.

good luck