OBD2 scan tool? Which ones work? which one to buy for laptop?

Thorn71 · 09-30-2006, 08:19 PM

i have just learned that i could buy software, interface box, and an obd2 cable to use with my laptop and it will display more info than a standalone obd2 hand held. ok i am a gadget person and a name brand addict. i have noticed snap-on does not make this type of device. The question is which interface boxes have you guys used with good compatiblity results?

BNaylor · 10-01-2006, 08:40 AM

I run Autotap on a Dell laptop. See link below.

Click here

goser · 10-03-2006, 12:51 PM

I've been looking at this recently as well. Someone recommended AutoEnginuity, I don't know how it stacks up to the Auto Tap...

Thorn71 · 10-03-2006, 06:05 PM

bnaylor you have used this on your 97 gtp? i have the same year gtp. Checked the compatibility charts on Autotap and it starts at 98 for grand prix. The ELMSSCAN5 also excluded this year. I imagine this is the same pcm as 98.???right? I know that OBD2 is 96 and newer but i have not been able to locate a OBD2 label on the car.

BNaylor · 10-03-2006, 06:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Thorn71

bnaylor you have used this on your 97 gtp? i have the same year gtp. Checked the compatibility charts on Autotap and it starts at 98 for grand prix. The ELMSSCAN5 also excluded this year. I imagine this is the same pcm as 98.???right? I know that OBD2 is 96 and newer but i have not been able to locate a OBD2 label on the car.

I've used Autotap for the last 3 years. Works fine. I use it to tune for the strip. Great way to monitor the 02 sensors, MAF sensor and knock retard, especially with the virtual gauge display. The 97 PCM is basically the same as a 98. I have not seen any difference in the bin files. My GTP was made later in the production year and is technically a 97.5 model.

For the 97 model year GM went to odb-ii on all car models and I have never run into a 97 model that was not odb-ii. 95 was the questionable year where some were obd-i and then odb-ii (transition year).

Thorn71 · 10-03-2006, 10:24 PM

Mine was built in march 97 does not comfort me that you say 97.5. Looks like the common protocol for gm is J1850 VPW for the pcm. However it appears that every where i look for obd2 info on the web the 97 is excluded. thanks for the help.

BNaylor · 10-04-2006, 10:04 AM

This is from the horse's mouth. According to the GM Grand Prix Service Manual all 1997 Grand Prixs with 3100 Vin "M", 3800 Vin "K" and 3800 SC Vin "1" are fully odb-ii compliant.

Have you ever connected a regular odb-ii handheld scanner like from Actron, Equus, OTC or Snap On MT2500 to the data port?

POST REPLY TO THIS THREAD