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I have started working on 1996 and newer cars and would benifit from a diagnostic scan tool. Having started on the LT cars I was lucky to have free software like Scan94959 to do diagnostic work with great detail. Is there any similar program or a commercially available tool for less than the price of a new snap-on scanner?
I have a bluetooth module that plugs in and an app on my phone. Iirc the module and the app were are $20 or so. The app is called Torq and can read and clear codes, also shows sensor readings, speed, rpm, etc.
im sure you can find plenty of cheap scanners but remember, you always get what you pay for. i love my ethos edge and it was only 1800 brand new. i think there is a brand called "launch" that might make a cheaper version of that though
I have a blue tooth dongle that I use with my cell phone and the Torque app. That works pretty well. I also have an Autel MaxiCOM MK880 and a Launch X431 PROS mini.
The Launch is bi-directional which allows you to control certain aspects of the car (such as Evap purge valve) to help diagnose problems. All 3 of the ones I have do the
job they're designed for and if you're only looking to read & clear codes and reset oil lights etc, get the cheapest one you can that does what you want. The Autel was $450
and the launch $750. Got them both from Amazon.