OBDII Scan Tool....Need Recommendations

[jglutz]

I'm going to break down and by a scan tool
I've done some research and like the Actron Model No.: CP9175
Will be a day or so before I head out...any comments or recommendations are greatly appreciated...Thanks....Joe

[festivaWES]

same one we have at work i like it and it's user friendly

[SIBladerunner]

If you're getting it at Auto Zone or something like that, buy the top one. It has a lot of extra features that can be usuful when using newer than 2005 cars. Some of them have a high spead CAN bus and need a different communicator in order to talk with the PCM. So getting top of the line can help you out.

[FB71]

Joe,

Have you considered an expandable, PC based scan tool like AutoEnginuity?

http://www.autoenginuity.com/order.html

$250 for the basic package, expandable with OEM type applications.

[jglutz]

Joe,

Have you considered an expandable, PC based scan tool like AutoEnginuity?

http://www.autoenginuity.com/order.html

$250 for the basic package, expandable with OEM type applications.

Good Advice.....I really thought about it.

I currently use my lap top to talk to my '87 Cavalier thru the ALDL port using a RS-232 to RS422 convertor and terminal mode. I can also talk to my '06 Rendevous with a modified Allen-Bradley PLC Can Bus Module. But I'm looking for something more plug and play. I do way to much free-bee work and need something more plug and play or more so something I can lend out.

I love working on cars but I hate people who come over and need to be told they need to pop the hood more than once a year.

[bhazard]

If you want a real nifty tool look up "ScanGauge".

Scans codes, displays all sorts of info (gauges), and is a trip computer (mpg) all in one.

Does tons of stuff. Runs around $150.

[jglutz]

I made the purchase



Got to play with it this afternoon...has the USB and print feature...sweet
I started to look for the CP9185 but no one has it readily available...this one has an optional cable for Ford OBD I....the top of the line CP9190 is out of my budget.

[FB71]

cool! I'll expect a full report on your evaluation of it's functionallity...

I have an NGS

[ohsoslow]

i wouldnt trade my LAUNCH x431 for anything. imo the best diagnostic scan tool available. but im sure its way beyond what you wanna spend (it was way beyond what i wanted to spend but still cheeper than that junk modis i had lol)

i have a small pocket meter made by creader i payed $50 for it. its actuall a very nice unit for the quick stuff check it out sometime.

[FB71]

Launch is really nice. We also have Noregon JPRO notebook based scantools. They work very well, just as nice as the Launch. I agree about the Modis, piece of crap. Unfortunately, I'm saddled with two of them at the moment.

[ohsoslow]

ive used the noregon it was very nice.
i feel your pain with the modis i wanted to set mineon fire most of the time!!
the updates for the launch arnt cheap though
the launch is amazing on mercedes and the bimmers
ive had a lot of ground stacking issues when using the scope (drove me insane the first few dozen times)
the modis is alright on domestics but lathargic at best on european cars.... and down right horrid on everyting else. just my opinion anyway i dont wanna anger the modis lovers out there.

[FB71]

I don't do much with high-end euros, mostly domestics and Asians. We concentrate on GM, Ford and Toyota at the school I teach for. The Modis updates aren't exactly cheap, either, but I'm guessing cheaper than the Launch's?

[ohsoslow]

were you watcing this thread? thats gotta be a record for a reply!!

the launch in about 30% more for updates but came with 1 year free ( i told em i wanted 2 years free on the phone and they said no problem)

for updates i miss my otc....but thats all i miss about it.

[FB71]

we have two Genisys (Matco branded Determinators) with the 5-gas piggybacks. They're good for quick DTC pulls and some inflight datastream.

[ohsoslow]

if your ever in ny and wanna drool on my launch feel free i do daily.