[lm6y]

Basic code readers / code clearers are fine, but I would recomend one that also shows real - time data streams.

Just because you get a generic code, that doesn't mean that's what's wrong. It is usually just a symptom of the problem. Most people who don't own a scantool think that they are the end all, be all of diagnostic tools. This just isn't so. They are a huge leap forward from a timing light, and a dwell meter though.

Most of your OBD codes are pretty vague, and you still have to use the data the cars computer gives you to fix the problem. It may tell you that you have a misfire on cylinder #1, but it won't tell you why. You use the other sensor data to figure that out.

A captue function is a good thing to have also. It captures data from all of the sensors at the instant you press a button. It's great for finding intermittant problems that won't set a code, but bugs the crap out of you. "Most" OBD2 systems will store all of the sensor data when the code was set also.

Dan, don't shy away from a tool that uses a computer. My scan tool has a PC interfacing program that will let me take the data from the car (whether I capture the data, or it was captured from a code being set), store it in the scan tool, upload the data to my PC, and then chart out what the sensors were doing when the code was set, or I captured the data. I found out why I had a random mis -fire on my Jeep that wouldn't set a code. From the sensor data I saw that it was a lean misfire, and tracked it down to a weak fuel pump. It was quite a bit easier to change at home, than on the side of the road in the middle of the night.

Sorry the post is so long, but it seems a few of you were interested in actual OBD2, hands on experiences.

If you just want to check, and clear codes, your basic units are fine. But if you want to dig a little deeper, dont waste your money, and spend a little more on a unit that does more.

Most of us don't even think about spending good money on good tools. A scan tool IS a tool, and you might as well get a good one.

You have to have a computer to fight a computer after all.