obdll & can scan tool from h f keep it,or...?

[sanfrisco]

i just bought this tool to check for codes in my alero and i already erase a code to turn service engine soon off, the code was related to small leak in gas cap or emission line or hoses, my question is anybody knows how to upgrade it, updated and get more info out of this tool regarding codes, troubleshoot,and get info what to fix in car i am no sure to keep it or get a better tool any info appreciated thanks

 

[Zeke]

If it's not doing what you want, take it back. They have several models. Did you know you could drive over to Autozone and have your codes checked for free? I'm sure other FLAPS do that too like O'Reilly's.

 

[RunninOnEmpty]

I don't understand the actual complaint. With many codes such as P0442 which I assume is the one you had, there is no possible way for the scanner to tell you the exact issue.

How, more specifically, did it fail to meet your expectations?

Oh and in general what I recommend is whatever ELM327 clone + Torque for Android.

 

[gungatim]

what tool is it, HF has a miriad of scan tools. post model# Most are made by Autel. you can download the updates, mine came with a CD as well...

and I second the ELM327 clones...have 3...laptop cable version is best but the wifi and bluetooth work too...

 

[JonnyMac]

What a lot of people dont understand about fault codes is that they only reflect the characteristics of a fault which is generated when developing the system.
For example if you have a leak in one of your vacuum hoses the code will never be able to tell you which hose it is because when we develop that code, (when developing the system every single code is replicated) a window of expected vacuum values is applied to the calibration and then importantly a window of pressures is applied to the pcm which will trigger the code. It'sac range of pressures seen at the sensor not at the source of the leak.. If the pressure doesn't fall with that window even if it is faulty, it will not trigger a code.
This is particularly difficult when people add accessories using live power feeds that arent designed to take them. The resulting fault might not show a code because the characteristics of the circuit error have never been seen before and therefor cannot generate a code because it's not been programmed to do so.

 

[Hammer1963]

I once owned an HF scan tool by Autel that claimed to be updatable. I tried on multiple occasions to update the tool but to no avail. I hope you have you have better success

 

[goforride57]

I purchased a cheap craftsman scan tool to keep at the house just in case. It has a code connect feature and gives you a list of common repairs in relative order. Maybe that's what you're looking for? Not sure. Anyhow scan tools will only give you a generic fault code (P0442) and it's up to you to verify the fault (gas cap, filler tube, ect.).