What OBD Reader/Scanner to use
 

I'm now in search of a new tool!!! I would like an OBD reader/scanner that is capable of resetting codes. My application will be with a 2004 Subaru, 2000 Ford F250, 1995 993, and various other family member's cars. I'd like something that can do OBD II and OBD I. Ability to do CAN might be fun? I would prefer a unit that is stand alone, FWIW.

I've looked a bit at the Actron 9175 but want other opinions on different makes, models, and how user friendly they are.

Thanks in advance,

Hmmm, how about a bump? No ideas?

David,

I have an Actron 9125 - it's not fancy, it doesn't tell you what the codes mean, it just gives you the codes, and it resets the codes and dashboard lights. I couldn't live without it. It paid for itself 5 minutes after I opened it up. I get the stupid codes on my SAAB every time I buy low octane fuel, and the car takes 40 starts to clear a code by itself - or the Actron does it in less than a minute.

Rex,

Does the Actron 9125 do both OBDI and OBDII? I believe the codes can be looked up, which is fine.

I dont know if there is one that scans both OBD I and II. If there is one, it is going to be pricey. I just got one of ebay. Ended up costing $30. Works fine. Here are a couple of links. One has an OBDII scanner for $72.99 with free shipping.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00009RAX7/ref=dp_olp_2/002-3146552-5809621


http://www.obd-2.com/

I have a Hypertech that is basically a retuner for my Yukon XL. I had an issue and before I brought it back to the dealer I needed to reset the stock mapping. It also told me the error codes, nice feature.

Anyways I'm looking for one also.

I'm not sure how involved you want to get with the analysis, but I ended up with a Digimoto system. I like the software's interface and it has some cool functionality. It needs a PC (or Mactel) to run and is closer to $200 than $50, so it's not for the budget-minded. Check it out at digimoto.com

I like my ScanGauge II. It's got extra functionality that many readers don't have.

www.scangauge.com

Trip Computer
» Maximum Speed
» Average Speed
» Maximum Coolant Temperature
» Maximum RPM
» Driving Time
» Driving Distance
» Fuel Used
» Trip Fuel Economy
» Distance to Empty
» Time to Empty
» Fuel to Empty

Digital Gauges
» Fuel Economy
» Fuel Rate
» Battery Voltage
» Coolant Temperature
» Intake Air Temperature
» Engine Speed (RPM)
» Vehicle speed (MPH)
» Manifold Pressure
(not available on some vehicles)
» Engine Load
» Throttle Position
» Ignition Timing
» Open/Closed Loop

And Scan Tool
» Reads Trouble Codes
» Reads conditions that set the Trouble Code
» Clears Trouble Codes
»

Turns off "Check Engine" light
» Tells you when vehicle is "Ready" to pass OBDII testing
» Make and store up to 10 rewritable special codes
to send to the vehicle compute

I think it's $150. It doesn't tell you what the codes mean, just what they are. It's also very small which I think is a plus.

I bought this scanner for my MazdaSpeed3 in February and it's great! Easy to use and very informative!