Code Scanner Question

[jal395]

I have an Actron CP9145 that I have had for several years and has always served me well. I ran into a code on a 2006 Saturn Vue and while it would connect it would always give a connection error on the first try. It will erase the code and reset the light but it will report system pass, no faults detected when clearly there is a CEL on.

What am I missing?

 

[FrancisJ]

Relative to the factory scan tools for GM (Tech II and MDI) your entry level (and older) Actron will have problems with the full range of manufacturer's generic and extended/ enhanced codes. It is very likely your CEL code is in the category of extended and/or enhanced and your code reader while able to do a master reset can't identify the underlying PID.

 

[jal395]

FTR O'Reilly's read it as a P0301 which I believe is a generic code. At any rate changing the spark plugs fixed the issue. Thanks for your response and any other thoughts are appreciated.

 

[bcschief]

Saturn or GM patent code generic code readers wont tell you what it is. a tech 2 most likely will read it. Other manufactures also have these codes usually it is tied with a generic code the patent code will put you closer to the actual problem.

Brian

 

[jal395]

So what's decent shade tree scanner that doesn't have these compatibility issues (if there is such a thing)?

 

[JJThrasher]

So what's decent shade tree scanner that doesn't have these compatibility issues (if there is such a thing)?

There isn't one. Our $10K Snap On scanner at work can't even get some codes on some makes and models. Either get all the OEM tools or you're going to have to live with tools that can't quite do it all.

 

[Fedwrench]

So what's decent shade tree scanner that doesn't have these compatibility issues (if there is such a thing)?

That's a tough choice because platforms are always evolving. Innova and Autel offer some units that are relatively affordable.

However, a P0301 (cylinder 1 misfire code) is a generic OBDII powertrain code, and any code reader should have been able to read it.

It's when you get into supplemental restraint systems, body control modules, and antilock brakes that you hit the manufacturer wall of proprietary information that lower cost units can't access.

I believe the next standardized operation system comes out in 2018.

 

[anndel]

So what's decent shade tree scanner that doesn't have these compatibility issues (if there is such a thing)?

Actron is pretty good, maybe you need to update the firmware or buy a current model Actron. I also have the Bluedriver and leave that plugged into my wife's car. It's great that it reads codes, live codes and reads ABS codes. The only thing I hate is the connect time using either an iPhone/iPad or Android phone, connect times are 2-3 minutes then about the same o download/read codes.

 

[kctyphoon]

I have the HF model that does abs.. gives live data, but not airbag, and gives you all the info on the code without having to goto a computer to look it up.. I only need it.once in a blue moon, but itll pay for itself the first time you use it..

 

[jal395]

Thanks for the responses, guys. I am looking into the firmware angle. In the back of my mind I was expecting one of two things, 1)known issue with Saturn or 2) the ecm is degrading.

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

I own an Actron CP9690, a Bluedriver and an Innova 3160B. Out of the 3, i reach for the Bluedriver first. It hasn't missed a code yet, reads all modules, even ones the actron doesn't read and gives a ton of info. Plus its easy to throw in a pocket. I use the actron for everything else. Resetting things, live data, etc. And the innova has it's features as well. The three together cover anything i've ever ran into, but one alone doesn't do it all. if i had to give all but one away, i'd keep the bluedriver.

 

[themiller]

I own an Actron CP9690, a Bluedriver and an Innova 3160B. Out of the 3, i reach for the Bluedriver first. It hasn't missed a code yet, reads all modules, even ones the actron doesn't read and gives a ton of info. Plus its easy to throw in a pocket. I use the actron for everything else. Resetting things, live data, etc. And the innova has it's features as well. The three together cover anything i've ever ran into, but one alone doesn't do it all. if i had to give all but one away, i'd keep the bluedriver.

Another blue user here. Buy it on amazon to get free shipping.

 

[FrancisJ]

There isn't one. Our $10K Snap On scanner at work can't even get some codes on some makes and models. Either get all the OEM tools or you're going to have to live with tools that can't quite do it all.

Totally agree --- anything less than the manufacturer's scanners listed below will have problems.

Consult II
Consult III+
DRB III
Wi-Tech
Ford IDS
Tech II
GM MDI
GDS
Honda HDS
Mazda IDS
MUT III
Select Monitor III
Multi-Tester Pro
Volvo VIDA
SDT
Master Tech
Techstream