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Old May 17, 2008 | 08:47 PM
  #1  
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Are there any scanner tools that we can buy to monitor the car? Similar to what the dealership has, reads codes and can plug into the car to monitor whats going in real time.. things like knock sensors, timing, temperature, etc, etc. I may be using an improper term, but hopefully you guys know what I am talking about. If I can get my hands on one, where and how much?
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Old May 17, 2008 | 08:55 PM
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I use Auto Enginuity, It hooks through the OBD II port, but requires a laptop.
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Old May 17, 2008 | 08:56 PM
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Originally Posted by screw991le
I use Auto Enginuity, It hooks through the OBD II port, but requires a laptop.
How much, where and will it work with a Mac or does it require a PC?
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Old May 17, 2008 | 09:57 PM
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Answered my own question with the PC/Mac thing. However, I didn't find the pricing information, mind if I ask what you payed. Also, are you satisfied with the product? Thanks!!!

Is this the only thing out there or is anyone else using another product? Just want to see what all the options are. Thanks!!!
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Old May 17, 2008 | 10:08 PM
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Sorry, I can not remember what I paid, But it was under $50. I like it, I have been using it since 2000 and it has updates all the time for free.
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Old May 17, 2008 | 10:15 PM
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Originally Posted by screw991le
Sorry, I can not remember what I paid, But it was under $50. I like it, I have been using it since 2000 and it has updates all the time for free.
Under $50!!! Haha, cant really beat that.. I was all set and ready to spend upwards to $250. So... you just made my day.
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Old May 17, 2008 | 11:01 PM
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I'll have to check that out!

I use an AutoTap on mine, its a bit more expensive but has a specific package you can get for LS1 equipped cars. the ODBII connector has a red box on it which is about 3-4" long, and since our ports face down right between your legs its not the best option. althrough you can buy an ODBII extension cable from them also to fix that problem. to be honest with you though, their software sucks. also requires a PC, windows, and a USB port.
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Old May 17, 2008 | 11:35 PM
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Use the on-board DIC to read all DTC diagnostics:

1 Turn ON the ignition switch, with the engine OFF
2 Press the RESET button to acknowledge any warning messages present
3 Press OPTIONS button on the DIC and hold
4 While holding the OPTIONS button press the FUEL button 4 times within 5 second
5 System will first enter automatic mode followed by manual display mode

To clear DTCs press & hold the RESET button.

Otherwise expect to pay $150 or so for a decent Actron unit that can be downloaded to your computer & accept USB updates as they come about. Make sure you get a unit that not only displays DTCs, but defines them as well, so you don't have to look up the codes.
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Old May 17, 2008 | 11:42 PM
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i use an INNOVA 3130. bout 160$ and reads all the codes and gives you a list of things to check for that code. does live data, can be transfered to a pc, if desired. great tool
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Old May 18, 2008 | 01:27 AM
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good info for a puter novice like me
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Old May 18, 2008 | 05:41 PM
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This is a nice one -not sure what you're really looking for -
Actron CP9190 Elite AutoScanner Pro Trilingual OBD 1 & 2 - C.A.N
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Last edited by vetter79; May 18, 2008 at 05:45 PM.
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Old May 18, 2008 | 06:14 PM
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Originally Posted by screw991le
Sorry, I can not remember what I paid, But it was under $50. I like it, I have been using it since 2000 and it has updates all the time for free.
Things have gone up since you bought it. The price now is $250. http://www.autoenginuity.com/index.html
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Old May 18, 2008 | 06:36 PM
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What about a Diablo Predator? Can't it read codes? I'm not sure if it covers all GM's or not. If you have vehicles that aren't made by GM, then the tuner probably won't be able to read them. I have an SCT programmer for my Mustang that reads all OBDII equipped Fords. I'm willing to bet the Predator does the same.
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Old May 18, 2008 | 08:10 PM
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I'm actually not really looking for something to just read codes. I am interested in a real time monitor, reading codes would be ok too. Really, it boils down to trying to figure out things like, counts of knock, timing advance/retard, intake temperature/pressure, etc etc.
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Old May 18, 2008 | 08:40 PM
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Originally Posted by RBChallenger
I'm actually not really looking for something to just read codes. I am interested in a real time monitor, reading codes would be ok too. Really, it boils down to trying to figure out things like, counts of knock, timing advance/retard, intake temperature/pressure, etc etc.
You can buy a Tech II scanner. They are quite pricey, but you would be able to do anything a dealer could do

http://www.ntxtools.com/network-tool.../otc-3628.html
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Old May 18, 2008 | 10:05 PM
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Originally Posted by ljthe2nd
Things have gone up since you bought it. The price now is $250. http://www.autoenginuity.com/index.html
I know I did not spend that.
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Old May 19, 2008 | 07:52 AM
  #17  
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You have to decide how much you want access to. Simple code reading can be done by the DIC or sub $100 Actron type scanners. If you want access to ABS/TCS, BCM, HVAC and bi-directional access to sensors for testing, scanners like AutoEnginuity is a great deal. You'll need a computer or PDA. I think the hardware and 1 extended Software package (for a specific manufacturer, like GM) is in the mid $200's. Love mine-works great.
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Old May 19, 2008 | 08:32 AM
  #18  
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Originally Posted by JDLearjet
Use the on-board DIC to read all DTC diagnostics:

1 Turn ON the ignition switch, with the engine OFF
2 Press the RESET button to acknowledge any warning messages present
3 Press OPTIONS button on the DIC and hold
4 While holding the OPTIONS button press the FUEL button 4 times within 5 second
5 System will first enter automatic mode followed by manual display mode

To clear DTCs press & hold the RESET button.

Otherwise expect to pay $150 or so for a decent Actron unit that can be downloaded to your computer & accept USB updates as they come about. Make sure you get a unit that not only displays DTCs, but defines them as well, so you don't have to look up the codes.



Great Information
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