Which do you prefer, or trust more, I should say, on board (paper clip)
diagnostics, or a portable hand held code reader. Today I was driving my 95 LT1 in 92 degree 85% humidity down here in Mobile. Since I cleaned out the radiator, flushed out the system and installed a new thermostat and radiator cap, it has been running pretty cool, in traffic it never goes over 207, which I can live with. Today though, after driving around town for about 45 minutes, my service engine soon light on the DIC came on. All gauges looked okay. Well, tonight I was going to do the paper clip diagnostic to see what code(s) I might have thrown, but first I unhooked the battery and reset the light. Rode around for a while and the light did not come back on yet. I know that usually it will, but for now everything is okay. Back to my question, which diagnostic do you prefer. Kind of a pain in the A$$ to do the on board, but is it more comprehensive than a hand held unit. I was thinking about getting a code reader from Auto Zone or the like, don't really need to change any settings. What code reader is both good and inexpensive. Looks like you can spend a pretty good bit on these things. My Tundra SEL light came on a couple of weeks ago and Auto Zone pulled the code for me, so I have been wanting to get one for myself anyway. Real handy item to have if it is reliable. I have read posts on here where their SES light came on but the code reader did not pull any codes.

 

There are only a few OBD1 code readers which will help.

There's an outdated Scantool from Snap-on that helps with live data from the various sensors. Won't see that with a paperclip, tho.
That tool used to be top of the line - costing several thousand dollars.
Now you can find them dirt cheap on Ebay.

The video is not mine - just an intro.

 

Bandit that is the one I use. its great and works every time.

 

Those inexpensive code readers at Auto Zone, etc... won't work on your 95. Those only read OBDII codes,etc...NOT OBDI like you 95 has.

As suggested a older scan tool is your BEST bet. My particular one is a bit newer than the old Brick is. OTC Nemisys, I can pull codes in ANY module on my 93 and read all live data from ALL modules. Record, history codes, pending codes, etc....

That and it does all Domestics's thru 07 and Asian thru 06 I got it on Ebay for $400. I need to upgrade the tool to 2013 vehicles....$$$$

 

Very satisfied with this reader..... OBD1 & OBD11

Multi functions plus code erase..... have not found a lower price:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/AutoXray-Code-Scout-Reader-2500-Brand-New-AX2500-/230999046961?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item35c89dbb31&vxp=mtr

 

I got the old Snapon "brick", fittings, cartridges, manuals and case for about $200 off of Ebay. Works well.

 

I'll go with neither. I use a scanner to see data.

Not sure what you mean but my Auto X-ray hooks up to the ALDL and it is pretty simple.

Want fries with that? Not happening, at least IMO. I have very rarely found "good and inexpensive" going together. If they do, there is usually a catch to be discovered sooner or later. Usually, it is one or the other. Spend the money now or spend it later. Bet a scanner that can read all your vehicles or be damn good at guessing. I'm not good at guessing so I save up for a good scanner that will read my vehicles and go with that.

 

Not more comprehensive than my "hand held"...



Does data streaming (watch sensors live), takes "snap shots" when symptom occurs, guides you through diagnostic flow charts and cycles actuators (injectors, solenoids etc.) to test.

No WAY, on board diagnostics is more comprehensive.

 

Datamaster FTW. Hook up the laptop and see whats going on.

 

I say go with the brick aka mt 2500 as it can be used with OBD 11 stuff also When on ebay looking for one check out the mt 2400 it is a graphing multi meter with a data base that can be very helpful on any car. Oh the mt 2400 is also called the vantage. Try to find one with update #7 I think it goes up to 2003 model year.

 

Datamaster is the way to go, this is what alot of tuners tell you to use for datalogging.. All you need it a laptop, program, and a connection cord and you have the best scanner you can get for the C4. It gives you more information then any hand held out there...I also have an Auto X ray 6000 and there's no comparision...WW

http://www.tunercat.com/Docs/DM32man_v400.pdf

 

What is the recommended one for doing all OBDI and OBDII cars? Maybe that might not be so bad for an investment? You can do all your cars and not ONLY your C4.

 

Try ebay and look for a snap on solus or solus pro. And try to get one with the latest update as they are big $$$. Most of these can do OBD 1 and OBD 2 and are bidirectional testers. And can be used for moor than a check engine lite. Like just the other day a friend came to me with a late model Honda accord with no windshield washers. I was able to use my solus pro and go to data list and watch to see if the washer command was going from the switch to the module to the washer pump. It was so that means all that was left was to check the pump. That one quick test saved a lot of other testing that would take a lot of time. Want to know moor? Check out scanner danner on you tube. Well worth the click!