Automotive Scan Tool

[hancock1701]

Hi guys,

I am looking to buy a not-too-expensive scan tool for my current, family's and probably my future project cars. Those car are all newer than 1996. I recently tried to help a friend with an idle problem on his 2001 Nissan Sentra, and it'd be nice to have a scan tool to be able to look deeper into the system and see what everything is doing. I think what I need most is access to live and freeze frame data from various sensors. I was looking at these two:

Launch Tech CReader CRP123
http://www.autointhebox.com/launch-...nner-launch-crp-123-internet-update_p144.html

INNOVA 3160
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001QIUGVI/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Do you have any experience with either or have any other suggestions?

PS: My parents have a 2012 Hyundai Genesis, which has electronic parking brake. I heard you would need to open the ABS valves in order to bleed correctly. If the scanner that I'm about to buy is also compatible with such new systems, it'd be a huge plus.

 

[MrGiggles]

An ELM327 Bluetooth adapter and your smart phone is the cheapest method. The adapter is ~15 bucks and the Torque app is free, or 5.00 for the Pro version. You can access live sensor data, as well as clear and read DTCs.

 

[d430]

I have the launch crp123. It's awesome once you learn how to use it. It'll do domestic, Asian, and euro. pgm-fi, trans, abs, & srs. You can look at live data and even print from it if need be. I couldn't find another scanner in that range that did as much. The innova one only does and on domestics I believe and no srs.

 

[FiendFX]

i'm selling my Auto Enginuity laptop base scantool if you are interested. PM me.

 

[Seppala]

I 2nd the Bluetooth adapter ELM327 with Torque Pro. These tools plus how to video's from you tube have saved me hundreds of $. The total cash price for these two items was $25.

 

[skulldrinker]

I have the Actron 9580A with ABS. It's ok but still want the next one up with command-ability. What would that be best price speaking?

 

[Rioredsn8k]

I've got the Launch CRP123 and love it! It does so much, really easy to use and would definately recommend it for what you're doing.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

I've had both.

The 3160 is faster and easier to use versus the CRP123.

However the CRP123 will do what the 3160 does plus a lot more. And, it's still pretty simple to use.

I also have Torque Pro; absolutely hands down best bang for you buck. The 3160 is capable of doing more but for a DIYer the Torque Pro can not be beat.

 

[slyonedoofy]

an elm327 bluetooth adapter and your smart phone is the cheapest method. The adapter is ~15 bucks and the torque app is free, or 5.00 for the pro version. You can access live sensor data, as well as clear and read dtcs.

^^^this!

 

[Ratchet Guy]

I got the 3160 and it's fine for basic stuff, reading live data helps me a lot , but the ABS feature it has did not help me I found that the Toyota Sienna Van that I had does not have a standardized ABS, it requires a manufacturer specific reader

 

[bcradio]

i'm selling my Auto Enginuity laptop base scantool if you are interested. PM me.

Why are you selling?

 

[rayh91]

I've only used my buddies CRP123 once. I wasn't able to clear a SRS light on a 2004 Audi A4. I'm not sure if it was up to date or it just can't clear those SRS codes.

 

[Mastermind]

Seems like srs and abs is overrated on a lot of scan tools. And trans codes outside of obd. At least in my experience. Srs was useless on the OTC scanner I had for a month. Didn't read on anything that came in the body shop with a light. Couple guys at work (honda dealer) have the Matco labeled innova and rave about it, haven't got to play much. Does the launch have a functional mode 6? Seems the most used function on the solus my buddy has. Being a dealership guy mostly I haven't got to use a lot of aftermarket scan tools for more than a simple ses light check. I have a basic innova with live data, just the four button model.

 

[hancock1701]

Thank you all. Sounds like the Bluetooth scanner ELM327 with the app is the cheapest way to try it, and if it doesn't do what I need/want it to do, I can buy a more advanced scan tool. For example, I'm trying to fix my friend's Nissan's idle problem, and I want to look at live data from the throttle position sensor and the idle air control valve. Does anyone know if these scanners would be able to read those, or those are not in OBDII?