OBD II code scanners

[Ryan A Harris]

I am in need of a scanner ASAP. So I am looking to see if anyone has any good/bad stories on the brands that are out there. This is for my wife's 97 sable wagon, and will work on the 97 LX as well. Any input will be great.

Thanks,

[whiplash15]

Seems like they're all pretty much the same. You need a read out of the code number, a "clear code" button, and the book that tells you what the code means. Other than that, go for the cheapest that has the connector you want.

[Shoe]

i would spend the extra money and get one that tells you what the code is and what it means.

[ve3lt]

Snap-On is good and so is OTC. I use them both but I find OTC will not pull some codes on Fords??? I did manage to get the codes off my Lincoln with a Rotunda because the OTC would not pull the codes for some reason???
I used to own a Snap-On but found out it would cost me three grand to upgrade it to modern coars (I had it for many years so it did the 85-95 no problem) I sold it last year.

I did have a demo on a brand new one that is wireless. The beauty of this one is that you only need your laptop (with a usb) and the unit. It's called the "Autoboss" PV-Maxx. I used it on a new Lexus last week and its AWESOME!
The nice thing about this scanner is you don't have to put VIN's in. The unit is smart enough to know what car it is.
Secondly you can be up to 300 feet away and still do the scan while you sit in your nice warm office on your laptop.
Thirdly, it has all the software for ALL makes and models except for the latest GM (they will be bankrupt soon anyway :) ) No need to keep upgrading modules and paying extra for online stuff like some other models.

I am definitely buying one as soon as I have the cash. They run about 5 grand with all modules, wireless adapter and software.

[MercsSC1]

I got a paper clip ...came from Staples ... 100 bucks used ....works on obd I and 2 .....lol
why can't you just use CE lite to dl codes ....dave

[shotbirdsc]

I have this one paid around $55 plus shipping. Found that similar ones from Canadian Tire costs over $200.

http://cgi.ebay.ca/SUPER-CAN-Universal-OBD2-OBD-II-Code-Scanner-Reader_W0QQitemZ190300234715QQcmdZViewItemQQptZMot ors_Automotive_Tools?hash=item190300234715&_trksid=p3911.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1215%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C 240%3A1318

Works great shows the code on the screen, I always misplace the book anyways. Works on newer cars also that are Can Bus.

Also will give you live data, not sure if that helps but pretty cool feature. It will pull the vehicle vin too.

[Icarus]

I bought an Actron 9150 scanner from a place on eBay (http://stores.shop.ebay.ca/Arctic-Tools), it does both OBD I & II and is CAN enabled which is great as we have a few cars here that are both. They shipped it really fast and answered my questions nicely. This scanner was 2x the price in the parts stores around here...