Looking for the best $200 scan tool.

[fflintstone]

My cheap *** HF OBDII code reader is now missing. I want the best bang for the buck for $200 or less. I will not consider used.

I need to do some repairs on the wife’s van (2000 Honda) before I sell it or we use it for winter duty. I have GM, Jeep Honda and Toyota vehicles.

I am looking at this Innova 3160
the description mentions Bi-directional but doesn’t go into any detail. I hear that is good for ABS problems. I don’t even know enough about scan tools to be dangerous yet.

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

 

[bran1har]

just get another harbor freight one. I have one and they work great. I used a cupon and got it for around $75.

 

[cookefab]

Stick w/ the Innova...buy it from Amazon...I'm a repair/fab shop owner, and I've got 2 Innova's....the low buck 3120 is in my mobile truck and gets more use than any of the 4 other scanners/systems that I own. I paid less than $60 for it...no ABS, no OBD 1, but my 3160 (?...have to check...) does OBD 1...I have the standalone Innova ABS scanner...thats really past DiY, IMO, unless you just want to pull ABS codes.

 

[Guns R Tools]

Most Innova with ABS only does domestic three.

 

[AETD]

i say, get some cheap "specialized" cables for each car.

They all cost about 25 to 50$ on uobd2 and other import websites. they all can do more than the universal all in one tools.

this 200$ innova comes no where near a 35$ toyota tis or toyota k+can commander cable.

when you sell the car. sell/give the cable with it.
If you get another car, buy a cable that is specific for that car/model/year so you will always have the most powerfull tool for the lowest price to fit your car.

 

[fflintstone]

i say, get some cheap "specialized" cables for each car.

They all cost about 25 to 50$ on uobd2 and other import websites. they all can do more than the universal all in one tools.

this 200$ innova comes no where near a 35$ toyota tis or toyota k+can commander cable.

when you sell the car. sell/give the cable with it.
If you get another car, buy a cable that is specific for that car/model/year so you will always have the most powerfull tool for the lowest price to fit your car.

I am not familar with with "specialized cables"

 

[dsmnickk90]

I have a 3140 it just lacks ABS but I think the only bi directional controls it has is activating evap test

 

[cgv69]

Most Innova with ABS only does domestic three.

According to the manual, the 3160b will can read ABS and SRS codes from most (all?) current Toyota's and Honda...

 

[AETD]

I am not familar with with "specialized cables"

Every car brand have his own diagnostic system:
VAS & Vcds/vagcom for Volkswagen, TIS for Toyota, DIS for Bmw, Tech2 for GM, HDS for Honda, etc...

With these interfaces you have the same power/software/tool as the official brand dealer service.

What the innova is doing, is reading/resetting dtc memory. no more no less, no canbus coding, etc...

If you just want an universal obd scanner, than there are some different other options that will only cost 100$ or less (xtool ps100) (memoscan U581) and more

If you own a smartphone or tablet take a look at plx devices kiwi tool (made in usa, i think). Also universal with some nice features. (depending the app used for it)

 

[signcrafter]

Every car brand have his own diagnostic system:
VAS & Vcds/vagcom for Volkswagen, TIS for Toyota, DIS for Bmw, Tech2 for GM, HDS for Honda, etc...

With these interfaces you have the same power/software/tool as the official brand dealer service.

What the innova is doing, is reading/resetting dtc memory. no more no less, no canbus coding, etc...

If you just want an universal obd scanner, than there are some different other options that will only cost 100$ or less (xtool ps100) (memoscan U581) and more

If you own a smartphone or tablet take a look at plx devices kiwi tool (made in usa, i think). Also universal with some nice features. (depending the app used for it)

Am I missing something? You say a techII for GM and in your previous post you say 35-50 bucks? I've never seen a techII for anywhere close to what you say. I'm sure everyone would buy the same "cables" as the dealer if they only cost 50 bucks each! But I haven't seen anything close to that price. Do you have any links to these 50 dollar "cables" you are talking about?

 

[boosteddsm92]

Am I missing something? You say a techII for GM and in your previous post you say 35-50 bucks? I've never seen a techII for anywhere close to what you say. I'm sure everyone would buy the same "cables" as the dealer if they only cost 50 bucks each! But I haven't seen anything close to that price. Do you have any links to these 50 dollar "cables" you are talking about?

I'm guessing something like this?

 

[AETD]

I'm guessing something like this?

Bingo. (And on other import sites ecutool, ebay, etc...)

I got my tech2 interface and software for my parents car from ebay for 15$ and it works 100%

 

[signcrafter]

Bingo. (And on other import sites and ebay...)

So how much more can these do over an innova? The software comes with the cables? Can these cables do abs bleeding?

 

[AETD]

all included.
you can read/write, reset all modules. like original software.
change ecu, immo, abs, airbag data,
Turn modules on or off. (activating $$$ options that are included, but needs dealer activation. like anticarjack auto door lock, board computer, etc...)

With my vcds i activated over 1000€ options with a 50€ cable. just playing with CAN coding. I also installed cruisecontrol (original hardware 80euro and activated it with vcds) 512€ dealer option 80€ DIY.

Every brand & car model have his own soft- hardware with specific hacks, tips & tricks... Never will a universal tool be able to do the same...

 

[fflintstone]

Every car brand have his own diagnostic system:
VAS & Vcds/vagcom for Volkswagen, TIS for Toyota, DIS for Bmw, Tech2 for GM, HDS for Honda, etc...

With these interfaces you have the same power/software/tool as the official brand dealer service.

What the innova is doing, is reading/resetting dtc memory. no more no less, no canbus coding, etc...

If you just want an universal obd scanner, than there are some different other options that will only cost 100$ or less (xtool ps100) (memoscan U581) and more

If you own a smartphone or tablet take a look at plx devices kiwi tool (made in usa, i think). Also universal with some nice features. (depending the app used for it)

I don’t have a tablet and my phone is as dumb as your average internet user.
The “cables” I assume connect to any computer with a USB port so they could be used with a laptop.
I don’t have a laptop and I just want a better code reader than the one I bought at HF for $40.

 

[AETD]

I don’t have a tablet and my phone is as dumb as your average internet user.
The “cables” I assume connect to any computer with a USB port so they could be used with a laptop.
I don’t have a laptop and I just want a better code reader than the one I bought at HF for $40.

Fair enough..
The cables and plx kiwi are eliminated.

Innova website list it at 490$ so 199$ is a bargain...

 

[d_rock]

What software do you use with those cables? Does it run on osx?

 

[HaroRider]

I assume the software is what those cds are. So you just plug the USB end into your laptop and its straight foward from there?

 

[theoldwizard1]

Every car brand have his own diagnostic system:
VAS & Vcds/vagcom for Volkswagen, TIS for Toyota, DIS for Bmw, Tech2 for GM, HDS for Honda, etc...

Not completely true.

Every car sold in the US after 1996(?) must have a standard OBD-II connector (typically under the steering wheel). The basic DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) must come out the connector in a standardized way.

Yes, there can be brand specific DTCs that require brand specific tools.



OP: Try to find a scanner that can have the software updated and one that there is some evidence that the manufacturer has actually released new software in the recent past.

EDIT: Innova 3160b got good marks on Amazon.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Comparison chart of Innova scanners

 

[AETD]

Not completely true.

Every car sold in the US after 1996(?) must have a standard OBD-II connector (typically under the steering wheel). The basic DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) must come out the connector in a standardized way.

Yes, there can be brand specific DTCs that require brand specific tools.

Yes that is telling as much as hey that chinese toolbox is a great starter kit. as a 9/16 nut is a 9/16 nut and a 9/16 wrench wil fit it, right?

a code reader is a code reader. how fancy or pricey they are in the end they only tell you: "P0100 MAF malfunction" some have a dtc clear button. and the crazy models even let you reset the service interval warning light.

OBD can be so much more with the right interface...

How much will a lost/broken key replacement cost you at the dealer?
How many electronic options where there on your car option list that only need to be turned on by the dealer after you pay 200-450$?
You have TPMS and use summer, winter and trackday wheels just a click and the readings are working from the other wheels.
Parking distance sensor, seatbelt chime, warning lights& sound when locking unlocking the car, change display settings, (de)activate, speed limiter, auto doorlock (anticarjack), fob windows, change electric powersteering power, light, heavy, or speed depending, and sooooooooo much more.
Adapt the cold start function. check diesel timing, check for misfires, etc, etc, etc. The list is endless.

No disrespect on age. (Realy!)
But i think there is a big generation gap when it comes to car electronics. This works in both ways.
I know verry litle 22 year old car mechanics who know how to fine tune doubble carburator or throttle body setups.
But i also know verry little 60 year olds that knows the power of obd (k or can), computers and hex editors in the garage...

I'm happy i'm inbitween.

 

[theoldwizard1]

But i also know verry little 60 year olds that knows the power of obd (k or can), computers and hex editors in the garage...

True.

However, I work in th engineering department of a Detroit 3 company developing EFI for over 30 years.

I did say, a cheap one provides the basic.

The corporate specific or Snap-On one are just out of the shade tree mechanics price range.

 

[fflintstone]

Yes that is telling as much as hey that chinese toolbox is a great starter kit. as a 9/16 nut is a 9/16 nut and a 9/16 wrench wil fit it, right?

a code reader is a code reader. how fancy or pricey they are in the end they only tell you: "P0100 MAF malfunction" some have a dtc clear button. and the crazy models even let you reset the service interval warning light.

OBD can be so much more with the right interface...

How much will a lost/broken key replacement cost you at the dealer?
How many electronic options where there on your car option list that only need to be turned on by the dealer after you pay 200-450$?
You have TPMS and use summer, winter and trackday wheels just a click and the readings are working from the other wheels.
Parking distance sensor, seatbelt chime, warning lights& sound when locking unlocking the car, change display settings, (de)activate, speed limiter, auto doorlock (anticarjack), fob windows, change electric powersteering power, light, heavy, or speed depending, and sooooooooo much more.
Adapt the cold start function. check diesel timing, check for misfires, etc, etc, etc. The list is endless.

No disrespect on age. (Realy!)
But i think there is a big generation gap when it comes to car electronics. This works in both ways.
I know verry litle 22 year old car mechanics who know how to fine tune doubble carburator or throttle body setups.
But i also know verry little 60 year olds that knows the power of obd (k or can), computers and hex editors in the garage...

I'm happy i'm inbitween.

Now I am more confused than before.

It would be nice to fix the TPMS on my Toyota. Stock rims are 17” my summer rims are 18” and have difficulty with the rev counter. The 15” steel winter rims seem ok though.
It would be nice if I could turn off the auto locking feature as well. I hate hitting the remote and having my car lock back up if I don’t open a door within 20 seconds.

Maybe I should buy the hayes book on diagnostics and read it before making a decision. Problem is I figure I can read about 5 pages at a time before falling asleep.

 

[fflintstone]

just pulled the trigger on the 3160b.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Now I am more confused than before.

A lot of the functionality regarding other vehicle subsystem (locks, TPMS, etc) is very manufacturer dependent.

OBD-II, as the government mandates it, only covers engine for certain. I don't believe it has to cover transmission/4WD/AWD but because the same controller (computer) usually handles all of powertrain, you can usually get codes for them also.

Yes, there are "proprietary codes" and test modes, but typically you need the manufacturer's tool (which they must sell you for whatever price they want).

Most newer ABS/traction control system talk on the CAN bus and the higher end Innova "calim" to be able to read them.



fflintstone - how about a quick review after your first use ? !

 

[Katsin]

Stick w/ the Innova...buy it from Amazon...I'm a repair/fab shop owner, and I've got 2 Innova's....the low buck 3120 is in my mobile truck and gets more use than any of the 4 other scanners/systems that I own. I paid less than $60 for it...no ABS, no OBD 1, but my 3160 (?...have to check...) does OBD 1...I have the standalone Innova ABS scanner...thats really past DiY, IMO, unless you just want to pull ABS codes.

+1

I've had the 3110 from when they were first coming out. Bought it many years ago. Reliable. Easy to use. Portable, no bothering with pulling out the laptop.

The $30 generic OBD connectors that sell on E-Bay and Amazon to use with the computer give you a lot for the money but imo you have to invest a lot in software before they really start to deliver on capability.

 

[fflintstone]

fflintstone - how about a quick review after your first use ? !

Will do, I also ordered the Hayes electronic troubleshooting guide too. Automotive electronics is one area where I understand all the theory behind everything, but have little practical experience. I still have difficulty using a multi meter.

I used to know nothing about auto electronics. I had a no spark situation with a V8 swap on a jeep scrambler I had. This woman I wanted to sleep with brought over a multi meter and diagnosed the problem. In a huge role reversal I cooked her an outstanding meal and she attacked me. She is now wife 2.0.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Will do, I also ordered the Hayes electronic troubleshooting guide too. Automotive electronics is one area where I understand all the theory behind everything, but have little practical experience.

The biggest problem that most people have with OBD-II is assuming it is telling them what part to replace. A lean EGO code could mean the EGO is bad or it could mean you have a vacuum leak !

Misfire could be a dozen things.

It takes a strong background in internal combustion engines to be able to use the information that OBD gives you to diagnosis what the real problem is.

I still have difficulty using a multi meter.

I just dropped about $100 buying a set leads, clips, back probes, etc, etc from Pomona (a Fluke company) so now I have now excuses. You don't need a $100 meter. You do need the right bits and pieces to hook it up to what you are testing.

If it is not an auto-ranging meter, start at the high end and work your way down. You can not measure current without opening the circuit and putting the meter "in line" unless you have an "amp clamp"

I used to know nothing about auto electronics. I had a no spark situation with a V8 swap on a jeep scrambler I had. This woman I wanted to sleep with brought over a multi meter and diagnosed the problem. In a huge role reversal I cooked her an outstanding meal and she attacked me. She is now wife 2.0.

Sounds like a real keeper !

My wife sold Craftsman tools for a couple of years back when everything was Made in America. She knows her stuff ! Not afraid to ***** up a screwdriver or pliers to fix something around the house. Boy do I catch hell if I use one of her tools and don't put it back !

 

[fflintstone]

I was asked to give a review of the innova 3160 after I used it. After miss reading a generic code on my truck (my fault, dyslexia) I was frustrated. When I re read it, it gave the generic code and I fixed the problem. My wife’s Honda has an ignition problem, it thru 12 permanent codes and 8 temp codes most of which were Honda codes and not generic. It is easy to use and so far I am happy with it.

I don’t have enough knowledge of using a code reader to compare it to something else.

 

[fflintstone]

I have now used the INNOVA 3160B on a few different vehicles and it has performed well. One acquaintance had a Toyota truck with a V8 and it diagnosed a #1 coil pack. The kid was happy to replace one part and have his truck fixed.

I am happy with the $200 purchase.

 

[signcrafter]

I was asked to give a review of the innova 3160 after I used it. After miss reading a generic code on my truck (my fault, dyslexia) I was frustrated. When I re read it, it gave the generic code and I fixed the problem. My wife’s Honda has an ignition problem, it thru 12 permanent codes and 8 temp codes most of which were Honda codes and not generic. It is easy to use and so far I am happy with it.

I don’t have enough knowledge of using a code reader to compare it to something else.

Did it read the honda specific codes?

I have now used the INNOVA 3160B on a few different vehicles and it has performed well. One acquaintance had a Toyota truck with a V8 and it diagnosed a #1 coil pack. The kid was happy to replace one part and have his truck fixed.

I am happy with the $200 purchase.

When you say diagnosed a #1 coil pack did it actually say bad coil pack or did it just give you a code that lead you to a bad coil pack?

 

[Trey T]

Look into "Techstream TIS" from eBay. It's ~$30 and it works. My co-worker has it and it works like my setup, which is different type of cable. You can scan all sorts of generic OBDII of any make and model.

I have OpenPort II by Tactrix ($180) that I use with Techstream, a Toyota TIS.

 

[MostH8d]

Do u have a link to the specialized cable and software I would need for my 07 tahoe?

 

[joedodge]

They don't diag for you. It only gives a code to work with. If its an advanced toll you have bidirectional tests. They do nothing but let u talk to a car you have to have knowledge and diag ability.......or load the parts cannon and guess

 

[theoldwizard1]

Do u have a link to the specialized cable and software I would need for my 07 tahoe?

For powertrain diagnostics, the cable was "standardize" in '96 (or '97). There are a "standard" set of codes, but there are also "manufacturer specific" codes.

Most car companies also use the same diagnostic connector for anti-lock brakes and air bags, but most of the cheap reader don't work with those systems.

 

[STANIMAL]

I use an Actron CP9580.

 

[MostH8d]

I'd like to be able to use the tech2 software with speciality cable like what was mentioned earlier in the thread. Where do i get that at?

 

[joedodge]

Tech 2 has been phased out its last update was December. You would be better off getting a mdi

 

[MostH8d]

Not familiar with mdi. Can u explain a little?

 

[signcrafter]

I'd like to be able to use the tech2 software with speciality cable like what was mentioned earlier in the thread. Where do i get that at?

Tech 2 has been phased out its last update was December. You would be better off getting a mdi

I think he means he wants the tech 2 software and use a "generic" cable like mentioned by someone above. Don't think that's possible. I'm not familiar with those generic cables but they claim to do a lot for a little bit of money. I've been looking into them a little. Seem to be a decent option for a DIYer. They are manufacturer specific and have some neat features for the price.

Not familiar with mdi. Can u explain a little?

MDI is GM's new tech II. I think it's for cars 2014 and newer.