GrahamNWT
Member
Was thinking about buying one for when I'm out shopping for a used truck. Who in your opinion makes the best one for GMC vehicles.
Best OBD diagnostic tool
- Thread starter GrahamNWT
- Start date
actron make a nice unit that will work on most obd2 cars and trucks, The basic ones will read codes and reset dash trouble light. The more you spend the more they can do upto live data logging you can download to home computer.I purchased one about 7 years ago and use it often.
snappytom
Active member
I got a CReader V for Christmas. It's not the most current but it is good and does the job.
If I were to get another I would go for the Bluetooth plug-in and App on a phone because the interface would be more robust and familiar.
If I were to get another I would go for the Bluetooth plug-in and App on a phone because the interface would be more robust and familiar.
joe_padavano
Well-known member
Define "best". Are you looking for a simple code reader or a real scan-tool?
The best tool is a Tech2, which is what GM dealerships use. It's extremely expensive but does all the bi-directional tests that the factory service manual calls for. I went with an OTC Genysis, which can pretty much do everything that a Tech2 can do. I've got a 1999 Chevy crewcab dually, and the tool has paid for itself in diagnosing and troubleshooting. For example, to find a misfiring cylinder, I can disable injectors one at a time (much easier and safer than pulling plug wires). I can initiate a crank position sensor learn cycle. I can adjust the IAC. Etc, etc, all from the comfort of the driver's seat.
Used Genysis tools can be had for $300-$600, but be sure you get the right operating system for your year, as upgrades can be costly. If all you care about is a code reader, there are much less expensive options.
The best tool is a Tech2, which is what GM dealerships use. It's extremely expensive but does all the bi-directional tests that the factory service manual calls for. I went with an OTC Genysis, which can pretty much do everything that a Tech2 can do. I've got a 1999 Chevy crewcab dually, and the tool has paid for itself in diagnosing and troubleshooting. For example, to find a misfiring cylinder, I can disable injectors one at a time (much easier and safer than pulling plug wires). I can initiate a crank position sensor learn cycle. I can adjust the IAC. Etc, etc, all from the comfort of the driver's seat.
Used Genysis tools can be had for $300-$600, but be sure you get the right operating system for your year, as upgrades can be costly. If all you care about is a code reader, there are much less expensive options.
Just need something that will tell me what the engine/transmission sensors are reading or if any of the codes have been cleared. Don't what to buy a nice truck and then have all sorts of **** happen. I work on cat engines, its nice to be able to sit back and play with the diagnostic tools. Sure saves a lot of time trouble shooting ecm stuff.
jkherd
Well-known member
I have an old actron scanner which I just use for pulling and clearing codes, it has served me well but I need to upgrade it. 
aaronrkelly
Well-known member
I bought a consumer model.....Innova 3100 - cost about $180ish.
Its read and done everything Ive loaned it out to do.....but I never use it.
Right after I started playing around with my Android phone and bought one of the "cheap" bluetooth OBD2 scanners off ebay for $15.
This exact one - I have bought a half dozen for me and family/friends.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&vxp=mtr&item=171254854958
You plug this into the car, turn the bluetooth on your phone then use this program. Torque Pro - cost $5.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.prowl.torque&hl=en
This thing has INSANE functionality for $20 overall cost. Data logging is far easier with this then any scan tool Ive used. Easier to see real time data - custom gauge/information sets. Reads/clears trouble codes.
Honestly.....the only reason I still have my Innova around is to loan out. The Torque and adapter does more, does it easier and is far more functional.
Another bonus is that you dont have a thick wire coming from the scan tool down to your OBD2 connector.....if your driving around doing data logging its easier to work with the phone because its wireless.
IF your familiar with your phone and it has this capability this is a great solution with excellent functionality for very little cost.
Its read and done everything Ive loaned it out to do.....but I never use it.
Right after I started playing around with my Android phone and bought one of the "cheap" bluetooth OBD2 scanners off ebay for $15.
This exact one - I have bought a half dozen for me and family/friends.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&vxp=mtr&item=171254854958
You plug this into the car, turn the bluetooth on your phone then use this program. Torque Pro - cost $5.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.prowl.torque&hl=en
This thing has INSANE functionality for $20 overall cost. Data logging is far easier with this then any scan tool Ive used. Easier to see real time data - custom gauge/information sets. Reads/clears trouble codes.
Honestly.....the only reason I still have my Innova around is to loan out. The Torque and adapter does more, does it easier and is far more functional.
Another bonus is that you dont have a thick wire coming from the scan tool down to your OBD2 connector.....if your driving around doing data logging its easier to work with the phone because its wireless.
IF your familiar with your phone and it has this capability this is a great solution with excellent functionality for very little cost.
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superdutymike27
Well-known member
Vettman
Well-known member
I bought one from Harbor Freight a few weeks ago. They're made by Autel (That's where the updated firmware comes from) Probably more than I need as it graphs in color etc. but was less than $70.00 on sale.
Tarheelgarage
Well-known member
What you are looking for is a scanner that shows emission readiness status for continuous and noncontinuous monitors. Anytime codes are cleared, they are reset to incomplete/not ready/not run status on the scanner. This is usually evidence that someone has unhooked the battery or used a scanner to dump the code(s).
I have this little scanner in the shop that I use to make quick code readings before bringing out the big gun scanner. It displays the monitor readiness status. Some cheap ones do not. Also has live OBD datastream.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003IOKPLO/?tag=atomicindus08-20
Hi there!
Another vote for Torque on an Android phone or tablet. I bought a Bluetooth dongle and paid for the app ($5, there's a free one but it's really nice so I felt compelled to pay for it). I've used it to log on my '06 Pontiac Solstice and my '07 Subaru Outback.
Torque shows test-readiness, current state, takes snapshots, records logs, and more. It's the best buy going by miles.
I have used an Innova 3160, borrowed from a friend. It seeme to do a good job, too. If you want a handheld scan tool that isn't Android-based, you could do wose than that one.
I have used a Tech2, borrowed from my neighbor who worked at a GM dealer. It was the cat's meow but I can't afford to buy one!
Another vote for Torque on an Android phone or tablet. I bought a Bluetooth dongle and paid for the app ($5, there's a free one but it's really nice so I felt compelled to pay for it). I've used it to log on my '06 Pontiac Solstice and my '07 Subaru Outback.
Torque shows test-readiness, current state, takes snapshots, records logs, and more. It's the best buy going by miles.
I have used an Innova 3160, borrowed from a friend. It seeme to do a good job, too. If you want a handheld scan tool that isn't Android-based, you could do wose than that one.
I have used a Tech2, borrowed from my neighbor who worked at a GM dealer. It was the cat's meow but I can't afford to buy one!
Mike Miller
Well-known member
Scangage makes a reader that plugs in to the OBD2 port, I have one I leave in my truck all the time to read engine and power train stats. I believe the new ones will read pending codes as well as set codes.
nicksnothereman
Well-known member
There are lots of shady fellas out there. If it don't can't check readiness (for the emissions test parameters) don't touch it. If I were more active buying used cars that are supposed to be running I'd have an option for you.
theoldwizard1
Well-known member
You can't afford "the best" !
Snap-on Modus or Verus. BIG $,$$$ !
Snap-on Modus or Verus. BIG $,$$$ !
jwith68
Well-known member
I have an Actron CP9185 that I've been pretty happy with. Lots of capability, including real time data logging, and OBDI capability with the correct cables. Free downloadable updates for the tool as well.
That said, I will probably go with Torque Pro and a Bluetooth OBDII dongle the next time around. Too many advantages, and too great functionality not to, especially considering the price.
That said, I will probably go with Torque Pro and a Bluetooth OBDII dongle the next time around. Too many advantages, and too great functionality not to, especially considering the price.
If you are looking at GM vehicles then I can recommend ScanXL from Palmer Performance as you can get the GM specific package for a little over $200 and it will allow you to read all GM Manufacturer specific codes as well as create logs on your laptop.
If you want something basic to read and erase codes and check readiness then I can recommend the Centech deluxe scan tool from HF which comes out to about $56 with 25% off coupon
If you want something basic to read and erase codes and check readiness then I can recommend the Centech deluxe scan tool from HF which comes out to about $56 with 25% off coupon
Ross/Kzoo
Well-known member
Can those apps and $15 tool be used with a laptop or do you need a Smartphone?
justin1795
Well-known member
we had a fairly expensive one at a shop I worked at the problem is you have to constantly update it for new vehicles. they would always say its cheaper to buy a new one. sometimes you could fool it if the car stayed the same as a previous year,
JonnyMac
Well-known member
The current market leader in my opinion is Autel. Ive done plenty of diagnostic calibration for OEMs. I have the top maxidas model at home which is one of the best ive ever used. Good support and very capable for a range of models. We did some comparisons with the various competitors and Autel came out on top.
Jon
I just got the Torque app for my phone (android, don't know if its on iOS). it was a few bucks. Then I bought a bluetooth OBDII plug on amazon for 15 bucks. It will read any sensor you want, data-log, clear codes, etc. It can even use the accelerometer/gps in your phone to calculate mpg, 0-60 times, etc.
eastbaysubaru
Well-known member
This. It really doesn't get much better. The price is great too. Alternatively, I also have an ELM327 USB if you don't have bluetooth capability. The scanner comes with software for pulling/clearing CEL codes.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GGCYCIC/?tag=atomicindus08-20
-Brian
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eastbaysubaru
Well-known member
I don't think the torque app works on anything other than a smartphone. For a laptop, I recommend the ELM327 USB that I recommended in my previous post.
-Brian
T_Roze
Well-known member
Quick question in regards to the Bluetooth adapters. Are you guys able to pull ABS or SRS codes? I am looming at the autel 439 just for at home, but would love greater functionality. Yes, I know techII and modis and and and are all better, but this is just for at home use. When I am at work I have a snap on. Works well.
Brian, thanks for the recommendation. I just ordered this. I was wondering if anyone had experience with delivery timeframe--Amazon says it isn't expected to arrive for 2-4 weeks. That will be ok, but I hope it gets here more quickly.
Shep
mike1956
Well-known member
Check out the Blue Driver. About 100 bucks,,blue tooth with an app. Nice thing is the app updates. Does abs ,read and clear codes with real time sensor reading.
LS6 Tommy
Well-known member
I have an Craftsman (Actron) scan tool circa 2006 or so. It reads OBDI, OBDII and CAN. It's been good to me so far the few times I've needed it.
Tommy
Tommy