OBD2 code readers

Just a general question about code readers. Are the ones they sell on ebay for ~50$ any good ? If they are and do exaclty the same job as a garage, why do they have these massive floor mounted computers at the garage to diagnose problems ?

Im thinking it would be a useful tool to have, but i dont want to buy a piece of junk that doesnt work or worse, messes up my computer.

The cheaper ones work but they normally do not do comprehensive diagnostics such as giving off GM Manufacturer specific codes such as P1XXX probably just generic DTC codes or run an emissions IM readiness test. However, they come in handy to reset the SES light. I've got an Actron model CP9145 and got it on Ebay for a great price. It reads generic and GM manu. codes, has IM testing and freeze frame data storage.

I don't think any of the handheld odb-ii scanners can match a Tech II machine you find at GM dealers and service departments.






http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/gtp.jpg
Thrasher CAI, DHP v1.0 PCM, SLP Headers,
3.25 SC pulley, CAIT GMAF, 2.5 DP/Hi-Flow CAT,
u-bend delete, 160 TS, ZZP Stage 1 72mm TB,
TB spacer, MSD 8.5mm wires, Autolite 103,
Goodyear Gatorback Serp. & SC Belt,
Nitto NT555R Drag Radials
1/4 ET: 13.210 sec. @ 104.490 mph
0 - 60 ft: 1.945 sec.

I agree with Bnaylor. I believe the Actron and OTC scan tools are sufficient for most do it yourselfers, but teh more you pay, the more you get. The higher priced models can give you ABS and brand specific codes, as well as real time data stream and soft codes. Depending on what you want to do will determine the model you want/need and the price. Make sure whatever you buy is upradeable to the new CAN protocol spec, or as of the 08 model year, it will be useless for new cars, as all will be CAN only, many 06's are already CAN only, so know what you need before you buy.

The Actron CP9145 is supposedly CAN ugradeable and upgradeable for basic software revisions.

bnaylor-

Are you fully satisfied with your CP9145? I see they're on Amazon for just over $200. I'm watching one on E-Bay currently at 150 with a day left.

I'd like to get scan tool that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. The CP9145 seems to be the best bet, so I wanted to get as much feedback on it as possible.

Thanks.

The Actron CP9145 is supposedly CAN ugradeable and upgradeable for basic software revisions.

bnaylor-

Are you fully satisfied with your CP9145? I see they're on Amazon for just over $200. I'm watching one on E-Bay currently at 150 with a day left.

I'd like to get scan tool that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. The CP9145 seems to be the best bet, so I wanted to get as much feedback on it as possible.

Thanks.


IMO the Actron Superscanner CP9145 is a good all around buy. Actron has a superscanner CP9150 but the list was $399. I've seen the CP9145 at Autozone for around $199.00. My winning bid price on EBay was $147.00.

The quality is excellent, it's easy to use, and you are right, it is CAN upgradeable. You've probably already been there but here is a link to the Actron web site:

http://www.actron.com/product_detail.php?pid=16150

Where I live we have to get an emissions test every year. Before its due I run the IM status check just to be sure the car passes. I hate surprises. Its paid for itself over and over just in saved labor diagnostic costs alone.

Good luck and hopefully the one on Ebay goes in your favor.





http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/gtp.jpg
Thrasher CAI, DHP v1.0 PCM, SLP Headers,
3.25 SC pulley, CAIT GMAF, 2.5 DP/Hi-Flow CAT,
u-bend delete, 160 TS, ZZP Stage 1 72mm TB,
TB spacer, MSD 8.5mm wires, Autolite 103,
Goodyear Gatorback Serp. & SC Belt,
Nitto NT555R Drag Radials
1/4 ET: 13.210 sec. @ 104.490 mph
0 - 60 ft: 1.945 sec.