Good Code Scanner

[kutlass69]

All:

I haven't posted here much, but I do read a lot for good advice regarding our MMs. Mine is a mostly stock 2004 SBM with 176K miles, and in beautiful shape. I've had the car for about 2 years. I've had Dennis Reinhart look at it as well. One day I'll get off my 4th point of contact and register it properly!

Meantime, I would like to get a code scanner. Money is an issue, but I could go as high as $200. I've looked over Actron and Innova, including Amazon reviews and home websites. I don't like what I've read about Autel/Autolink so will likely NOT go that route. I'd like something that can read ABS codes also, as my light comes on when it is very cold, but goes off when the car warms up.

I have decades of pretty fair experience with cars in general, but Im only now delving into "computers and electronics" the newer cars have - far cry from tuning timing, points and carburetors. For me - it is scary.

There are a number of things Id like to do to it, but will start out simple as I cut my teeth on "modern" cars.

There is huge talent on this forum - far more than many car forums have, so that's why I ask you all for advice on this.

What kind of recommendations can you guys make, and why do you make that recommendation?

Many thanks in advance, Dan

[justbob]

I've had both of these for quite awhile now (lost the innova for almost a year.. Hence the need) Both have served their need especially taking the quess work out on passing emissions.

http://www.amazon.com/Actron-CP9580-Scanner-CodeConnect-Trilingual/dp/B003IOITRG

http://www.amazon.com/INNOVA-3100-Diagnostic-Battery-Vehicles/dp/B000EVWDAK

Compared side by side I'd take the Actron.


Builder Of Badassery

[fastblackmerc]

I'm happy with the Autel I have.

[jnobles06]

you could by a used xcal 2 on ebay. it can read codes and you can use it to put a tune on your computer in the future if you plan to mod the car.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/UNLOCKED-SCT-X2-9400-FORD-TUNER-PROGRAMMER-WORKS-ON-MUSTANGS-AND-F150-/251662466208?pt=Motors_Car_Tru ck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3a98407ca0&vxp=mtr

[RF Overlord]

See my reply in your other post.

[whitey]

Scangauge 2, scans codes, and can tell you many other parameters on your car, such as transmission fluid temp, cylinder head temp, coolant temp, etc.

[kutlass69]

Gents:

Really appreciate the replies.

Never considered Scan Gauge 2, but will give it a hard look.

Would have never considered Autel given all I've read about it, but FASTBLACKMERC uses one, and that's as good an endorsement as any. Will most likely consider Actron 9850A or Innova 3100 or 3130.

Am about to try CRC MAF Cleaner and some fixes I read on other posts about some electrical connector at the rear of the left front wheel well.

Here goes nothin'............

[RF Overlord]

I'd like something that can read ABS codes


Never considered Scan Gauge 2, but will give it a hard look.ScanGauge, while a nice instrument, won't read ABS codes.

[71cyclone]

ScanGauge, while a nice instrument, won't read ABS codes.

Find a used Snap on Ethos Scanner [ E-Bay] , reads everything and erases as well , test abs at the touch of a button , read ignition timing and ox sensors just to name a few. Tells how many keys were cut to your marauder and reads Pats system.:burnout:

[88grandmarq]

If you have an iPhone or iPad, I recommend the blue driver from lemur

http://www.lemurmonitors.com/

it reads engine/transmission codes and ABS codes as well as live data/data logging.