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Good obd reader?

bluedog225

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 31, 2012
Messages
3,314
Location
Texas
I have and old obd2. It seems to work. Creates an wifi network. But I’ve tried two apps and it will not connect. I’m guessing it’s just old or broke.

I’d like to order something medium decent for reading codes and other stuff on my 2013 wrangler.

Any thoughts?

Thanks
 
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joel_400

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 16, 2022
Messages
405
Location
Nw ohio
If you just want a code reader there are many out there real cheap. If you want a big step up that's still relatively cheap check out the Autel al539. It's a code reader, that will read live data, and also has a built in voltmeter. Real handy tool to keep in the vehicle. I've had one for years and have found it super handy due to the dual purpose. Last I checked they can be had for less than 100 bucks.
Joel
 

Ole Slewfoot

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 22, 2016
Messages
5,098
Location
Freedom, CA
If you don't use an iphone, I find Bluetooth more convenient than wifi.

As to quality...I have not found anything to support the idea expensive ELM327s do anything but cost more. Had a couple, 3-5 years of heavy use, then need replacing.

I have a $400+ Ross tech one that is better for VW, and not as good on everything else.
 

BearsFan315

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 12, 2014
Messages
689
Location
Portsmouth, VA
i bought this one off amazon, well worth the $25 spent on it. plus you can connect to pc and update the software/info. but works completely independent of anything, just plug into vehicle and away you go, no wifi, bluetooth, etc...


works great, can read live data, mainly use it for pulling codes and clearing codes for friends, family, etc... right now it has a 20% off coupon. also does freeze frame from when vehicle throws a code.

few picts of when i used it, live datastream and freezeframe data from code
 

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bwringer

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Joined
Jan 1, 2013
Messages
10,323
Location
Indianapolis
If you have an Android phone or some other Android gadget lying around, a cheapie Bluetooth widget coupled with the Torque Pro app gives you a crapton of capability for $30-$40 or so. Bang for the buck is off the charts.

If you need to go beyond that and need things like ABS, airbag lights, brand-specific stuff, and assorted "command" capabilities (for example, commanding EVAP valves to open or close for testing) then you'll need to be more specific about what you need to do. The "Zurich" code readers at Harbor Freight can be a good bang for the buck, or one of the 9 bazillion Autel models. For a widget that can do it all, then you'll be getting into serious money, and may be looking at a subscription as well.
 

engineer2

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 13, 2009
Messages
11,825
Location
Chicago burbs
I've used a Bluedriver for several years. It work fine for $100. Free updates.
It's not bi-directional. It's a reader for:
Read & Clear Codes including ABS and BCM
Repair Reports
Mode 6
Freeze Frame
Smog Check
Live Data
 
OP
B

bluedog225

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 31, 2012
Messages
3,314
Location
Texas
i bought this one off amazon, well worth the $25 spent on it. plus you can connect to pc and update the software/info. but works completely independent of anything, just plug into vehicle and away you go, no wifi, bluetooth, etc...


works great, can read live data, mainly use it for pulling codes and clearing codes for friends, family, etc... right now it has a 20% off coupon. also does freeze frame from when vehicle throws a code.

few picts of when i used it, live datastream and freezeframe data from code

Got one. Cheap, fast, no futzing around. Cleared the code. (minor evap leak). Thanks!
 

brownbagg

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 20, 2006
Messages
5,208
i got one that works great but only on old stuuff like my 96 explorer. wont work on the 14 tacoma
 
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