Code Scanners what do you recommend?

shelby27604

shelby27604

Well-Known Member
Joined
Jun 6, 2013
Location
Efland NC
I have made due with a cheapo code scanner for a long time, but it is time to upgrade. I am trying to troubleshoot an ABS light issue, and need something capable of reading those codes, but would also like something that can handle a variety of needs for this tech filled automotive world that we are now overburdened with.

What are you guys using these days (non-tool truck brands please).
 
I use an Autel MaxiCom MK900-BT, its over kill for DIY stuff but I get some use out of it doing mobile mechanic work on the side and vehicle pre purchase inspections. There are alot of different lower priced options from Autel. I'd give them a look to narrow down the features you want.
 
Darkbloodmon said:
I use an Autel MaxiCom MK900-BT, its over kill for DIY stuff but I get some use out of it doing mobile mechanic work on the side and vehicle pre purchase inspections. There are alot of different lower priced options from Autel. I'd give them a look to narrow down the features you want.
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Over kill is fine, it would be great if it had the functionality to drive components AND read multiple modules. I remember years ago chasing a bubble in an ABS pump, that would have been easier to overcome if I could have activated the ABS unit.

I don't know much about this segment, is Autel a company that has been around for a while? In this new era of immediate knock-offs, I try to buy from companies that will be able to support the product for a while if possible (never know when you need a software update, a cable gets broken, etc etc.)

orange150 said:
Have you searched to see if there's a "free" downloadable scanner you can put on your laptop? I downloaded the one for E36 BMWs and picked up one of the OBDii - USB connectors and it's been great.

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Fortunately the truck sold in less than a day, with full clarity on the ABS light I couldn't duplicate, the buyer wasn't the least bit concerned (personally, never liked ABS anyway). I am trying to stay away from generic downloads, I had to get into that when working on VW's and Audi's, and it wasn't my thing.....having to learn a new piece of software everytime I am already into a project isn't something that brings me anything but rage.
 
 
A higher end Autel and Google.
This combination has saved me thousands.
I have even fixed a couple things dealerships couldn't figure out.
Most notably was Modern Chevy in WS on University.
No start, No run. my daughter had it towed there.
Needs new engine. Engine bay wiring harness connectors bad.
My daughter panicked so drove there talked to the Service Writer .... AFTER having scanned the car.
I told him his mechanic was an idiot, unhooked the battery for a couple minutes and she drove it away.
It was a coil pack and leaky turbo.
 
Speaking of scanners. I use a BT connected one and the phone for anything OBDII. However with the new 250 I've been reading about being able to turn stuff on and off with Forscan tool. From research it's a software for a computer. Do these more expensive scanners have the ability to see the hidden stuff the software see's and the ability to turn things off and on or change values? I'd really like to check on my trucks idle oil pressure. I don't want to drop $500 only to find out it does not do what I want.
 
I think we discussed this topic and I’ve given my opinion before, but brand specific programs with an OBD adapter are really hard to beat. Forscan for Ford, Vagcom for VW/Audi etc, AlfaOBD for Chrysler/Dodge//Ram/Jeep/etc.
They are darn near dealer grade as far as the diagnostic and programming options. You can even program keys with Forscan and AlfaOBD.
 
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