Looking for a CODE READER

[frit0150]

I am looking for a diagnostic code reader that will read ECM and ABS codes for my 1995 Pontiac Grand Am. If anyone could let me know where to find one that would be great. Thanks.

[xeroinfinity]

Welcome to AF.

Your 95' is what you would call a hybrid ODB I-II.
Finding a scanner for your car wont be cheap
They range from $250-1000 for a top of the line scan tool.

Here is a google search I did it shows several.
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&rls=GGLG%2CGGLG%3A2007-05%2CGGLG%3Aen&q=GM+OBD+I+%26+II+scanners

Auto Tap and the AutoXray are pretty good for the price.
I wouldnt buy a Actron as they dont read all DTC's.

Good Hunting

[frit0150]

Thanks alot! Your post helped a ton!

[Aki334]

try also this place search for otc genesys 3454 ABS I am not sure if I spelled genesys right but it si something like that This one is very nice you can upgrade it, you can even reprogram PCM if you buy the software, also emisions tests etc very nice my was 1189$ with domestic and asian software (covers all asian and domestic cars) http://www.autorepairmanuals.biz/sit...Iz_AyCp-oIRlso

[xeroinfinity]

In my opinion (IMO) Aki334 those SUCK!
For that price you could almost get 2 Auto Tap units and they are the shit!
It breaks it down and tells you with about 80% accuracy what is wrong.
No other Scanners will do that, not even the dealers fancy pants equipment.

But dealers have that special software for PCM & BCM programing/reprograming.

A DHP tuner would take care of your PCM needs though

I personly have about 12 hand held scanners,
and 3 diferent software programs I can use to isolate the troubles.
And still, sometimes I get stuck and have to threaten the car with the "hammer"

[boug0752]

Originally Posted by xeroinfinity

And still, sometimes I get stuck and have to threaten the car with the "hammer"

I have no scanners...a firm wrist...and a BIG Hammer
This seems to surfice for most circumstances...

[killdog66]

sometimes the BFH works the best

[crazy Jim]

hey xero, do you have to install any software in the PC to use the Auto Tap scanner?

[xeroinfinity]

The auto tap I seen you Do have to have a pc or laptop to run the diagnostics.
After you install the software that is.
It comes with either a USB or serial cables to hook up to the DTC port.

I use something simular to autotap/auto xray,
but its boot legged software

The only thing I cant do, is program a factory PCM

[crazy Jim]

I checked this site and it did not mention any PC soft ware..

[crazy Jim]

Ok, I just answered my question from this site. New question, they seem to offer some upgrades to the Auto Tap, do you recomend any for the average Joe mechanic? Are the sensor guides worth the money or is it the same information as what I can get out of the factory Helms service manual?

[xeroinfinity]

Honestly if you were just an average Joe I dont know If i'd spend that much money, I'd just get a hand held that reads ABS at least.

But you have several newr models of automobiles so you might want to at least cover what you have now.
You definatly want the Enhanced versions, this give you specific DTC's not just the genaric codes.

The model I was looking at isnt even on that page.
It covers everything from 86+(including the new CAN protical), though it costs around $2500
It'll pay for its self in no time at all.

The guide are good to have otherwise you'll have to look them up via the internet.

Thats the way the software I have works.
Sometimes I need to hook the PC up while on line to download the info

This can be a hassle if you dont have internet access, you are out in BFE