who make a good code reader

[paramedic]

i have been looking for an obd2 code reader and was wondering what people have. i like the kind with the internal memory of what the code means instead of having to look it up. i was looking at some craftsmen readers and the price differences in brands are so huge i dont want to buy a 300-500 hundred dollar boat anchor. or pass a up a 150 dollar gem. thanks for the help

 

[kab00m]

I found this strolling through my local Sears. You can view codes as well as see what the sensors are doing on the vehicle. On sale.

Actron CP9180

 

[ovilla]

I use Autotap.com. It has data logging so I can record and playback whatever I need to. I can also display live sensor readings, like for 02 sensors (having Bank 1 and Bank 2 individually graphed). Anyway, look around as there's many choices now.

 

[daveblank]

Look into Matco's new line of scanners. There are 5 different models offering different levels of capability.

MD1012 any day now
MD1022 any day now
MD1032 just released
MD1042 any day now
MD1052 just released

http://www.matcotools.com/Catalog/toolcatalog.jsp?cattype=T&cat=2342&page=9&#66143

 

[mikevango]

i am interested in this also. i would like an affordable one that has the built in library.
are the car inputs all the same or do you need adapters for different models? if so do most readers come with different plugs? thanks

 

[Arne73]

I've been shopping for one for some time too. This review was helpful for me, the ActronCP9180 has the extras that I'm looking for: Live, record and playback data, O2 sensor test, internet up datable.


http://www.youfixcars.com/auto-scanner-reviews.html

 

[mkdive]

I have the Equus 3160. Bought it on amazon a couple months back when it was on sale For $179.00 or something close to that. It has a pretty good built in library of codes. GM/Chrysler/Ford vehicle specific codes. And can read ABS codes. Its not top of the line, but can do more than what I will need it to. Im happy with it. Looks like its $187.73 (and amazon prime). It can also read and record live data. Kind of neat...to see all the sensor values (like fuel level in a % format). Then after its recorded you can view it on your PC (or on the scanner). So far I have used it on our GLK350, M5, my F150, my FIL's 250 and a friends 2500HD.

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

 

[ATTappman]

I have an Actron CP9180, and although I recommend it there are a few things you should know about it: 1) It has an Internet update capability but there have been no updates since 2007. So that feature isn't worth much. 2) Scrolling through the list of data items when viewing live data or freeze frame data is kind of slow. 3) The buttons don't have good tactile feel, so sometimes you have to press a button twice or three times before it activates. 4) As far as I can tell it has no built-in descriptions of manufacturer-specific codes (P1***). It doesn't claim to. I've only used it with Nissans and Hondas so maybe it does have some manufacturer-specific descriptions for domestic cars.

It's a good unit but you might want to go to a parts store and play with one, and the comparable Equus, before deciding. The $130 sale price at Sears is a good deal.

 

[chadster1]

i am interested in this also. i would like an affordable one that has the built in library.
are the car inputs all the same or do you need adapters for different models? if so do most readers come with different plugs? thanks

Model years '96 and up are OBDII and have the same plug-in

 

[Rocket1]

This is one of the items I've wanted to get for a while. I think the ability to log or view sensor readings would be a very handy feature.