96 Sentra GXE 1.6L stock, code reader?

We just bought a great 96 Sentra with 114K miles. Runs great, but the check engine light came on. The mechanic replaced a vacuum hose, then it came on again. Then he replaced the speed sensor, and now it's on again. We're losing confidence in the mechanic.

Thinking about getting an OBDII reader and checking it ourselves. Has anybody had good luck with a particular brand or a recommendation for a code reader? We also have a 98 Jeep Cherokee XJ that we could use a reader for but it's emission sticker doesn't say OBDII. Are we going to have to get another reader for it?

The Haynes manual describes reading the code by toggling a switch on the computer. Anyone have luck with that, or is it much better to get a code reader.

Where is the code reader connection on the 96 Sentra?

Any comments on the check engine light and speed sensor would be appreciated as well. The car runs fine.

Thanks,
Bruce

just take it up to Autozone, they'll read the code for you for free

Thanks, I'll try Autozone. I still might like to get an OBDII reader, anyone have any recommendations?

Where is the code reader plug on the 96 Sentra?

not sure on yours, on mine there's a little plug on the underside of the dash right above the driver's legs

Thanks, I found the plug behind a little removable panel on the drivers side on the lower dash. I went to our local Autozone and they said they stopped reading codes about a year ago.

Now I'm trying to decide whether to get a regular code scanner like Actron's for around $150 or a higher priced code tool that reads and has more diagnostics and can read with the engine running but costs around $350. I do a lot of mechanic stuff at home but don't know if professional experience would be required to make use of the higher priced tool. Any suggestions or experience?