OBD II Reader Selection

[scabahorn]

I would like to buy an OBD II Code Reader that will read generic and manufactures specific codes for both of our cars.

My 2004 Chevy Silverado is easy as Actron and others will read those codes ok, the problem is my wife’s 2004 Volkswagen Beetle.

I would like to have one code reader that will read all codes on both automobiles. I like the Actron CP9145 but am not sure if it will read the VW manufactures specific codes.

Anyone up on code readers today?

Thanks
Gary

[Fireplug]

OBD2 is a standard and should be able to real all obd2 cars

[YBSTUK]

i'm not too up on my code readers, but i just rented one from Autozone (free, by the way) and they said it could read all vehicles, EXCEPT for the VW Beetle. It was an Actron, but i don't know which model. I'm sure this is what you're finding out, right? hope this helps.

bryan

[scabahorn]

I just learned something new today about code readers. Here is a copy of an email I sent Actron about the CP9145:

I am confused about reading manufacturers' specific and generic DTC codes and if both exist in all cars.

Will an Actron CP9145 read both manufacturers' specific and generic codes on a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado Truck and a 2004 Volkswagen Beetle? (my truck, wife's car)

Or, are there any codes that could exist on the two above mentioned cars that the Actron CP9145 will not read?

Thanks for your help, I think you make a great product
Gary

This is Actrons reply:

Both codes would be readable in all vehicles. Yes, it will read all of the above for both vehicles. The tool is a powertrain code reader, so it will not read any SRS or ABS codes. Please let me know if you have any further questions.
-Thanks,
Vic Ellinger
Actron Tech Support
1-800-ACTRON-7


So does anyone know of a code reader that does not cost $1000.00 that will read all codes including SRS and ABS codes?

Thanks
Gary

[rrousou]

Check this out. Seems like a great productand doesn't cost an arm and a leg

http://www.autotap.com/

[skipr]

If you got the dough, get a mastertech made by Vetronix.

[Cadillakin'98]

Anyone know who makes the readers where you have the ability to reprogram the computer? Been wanting to get a hold of one since me, my sister, my mom & dad all have the same motor in our vehicle. From what I understand these units will not be as universal a a basic code reader. That's understandable but I'm also curious as to what other vehicles it will work on and a ball park figure of how much one of these would set me back. Thanks to anyone who has some info to point me in the right direction.

[skipr]

Originally Posted by Cadillakin'98

Anyone know who makes the readers where you have the ability to reprogram the computer? Been wanting to get a hold of one since me, my sister, my mom & dad all have the same motor in our vehicle. From what I understand these units will not be as universal a a basic code reader. That's understandable but I'm also curious as to what other vehicles it will work on and a ball park figure of how much one of these would set me back. Thanks to anyone who has some info to point me in the right direction.

Vetronix Mastertech will do it all, upgradable software, EPROM calibration,generic and manufactor specific for all makes and models, enhanced ignition dianostics, ociliscope capibilities...etc. But, it comes at a high price tag approx. $4,000 - $5,000.

[Cadillakin'98]

Yikes! Well, next time I win the lottery I guess I'll go ahead and get it! Thanks for the info.

[scabahorn]

I checked on Autotap Code Readers ( www.autotap.com ) and they do make a nice product. Autotap uses a computer and I guess a laptop would be the most flexible computer to use. You could find a cheap desktop computer and set it up in the garage, I guess, and use a long serial cable to reach the car. I sent auto tap an email asking if their product reads SRS ( airbag problems ) or ABS ( anti-lock brake problems ) and they said that they don't. My check engine light has not come on yet, but it has come on several time on my wifes car and it was an airbag problem every time. The VW has seat side airbags and if they get bumped while starting the car a DTC ( diagnostic trouble code )is turned on. If I bought a code reader that will not read SRS or ABS codes then I can promise you that all the codes I got would pertain to SRS or ABS. I am not going to buy a code reader until I can find one that reads every code my truck can generate and one that I can afford ( which is $300.00 or less ). I may be waiting a long time.

[teamroperhdr]

Try getting the snap on mt2500 from ebay, then get the right card. I have known people to get a whole set up for about 500 bucks......if you are doing your own work they are well worth it...........picked up mine at a pawn shop for 200 bucks