recommend a good OBD II diagnostic tool?
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,372
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From: Springfield VA,
recommend a good OBD II diagnostic tool?
Can anyone recommend a good engine diagnostic tool? I am thinking about the Autotap OBD II diagnostic scanner. It costs about $120-200 but also explains what the codes mean in plain english. thanks in advance. Jeff
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2004
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From: Boca Raton, FL
St. Jude Donor '05-'06-'07-'08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14
Originally Posted by Jagcvette
The only thing I don't like about the innova is that apparently it only tells you the code and then you get to go figure out what it means.
There is a one line descriptor that defines the problem, but, you are correct, it is very sketchy.
Jeff
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2004
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Originally Posted by Jagcvette
The only thing I don't like about the innova is that apparently it only tells you the code and then you get to go figure out what it means.
I'd also note that the Innova is just a code reader. It can't read live parameters the way an actual diagnostic scanner can. The latter is a much more powerful diagnostic tool. Not only does it tell you what the ECM thinks is wrong, but it also lets you look at sensor readings to determine what is actually wrong.
Autotap lets you look at some live readings as well as at codes. A Tech II lets you look at all of the sensor data as well as letting you activate certain systems for testing. HP Tuners lets you view all parameters, and make changes to them (live for Gen III, and some Gen IV systems). So in order of capability you have code readers like the Innova, scan software like Autotap, interactive handheld scanners like the Tech II, and finally a full diagnostic and tuning tool like HP Tuners. Considering the capabilities it gives you, the $499 HP Tuner package is the best buy. It is nearly $2000 cheaper than a Tech II, but lets you do more.
Team Owner
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 27,420
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From: San Clemente CA
Originally Posted by Jagcvette
The only thing I don't like about the innova is that apparently it only tells you the code and then you get to go figure out what it means.
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,372
Likes: 0
From: Springfield VA,
After listening to everyone's comments, I just bought the Innova 3110 ($148 from Amazone.com) since it explains the codes. I'm kinda lazy and in a year from now don't want to have to try and remember where I put the book or where do need to go to figure out the codes. Since I have an LPE 403 engine, I just need to be able to read the codes to determine who to take the car to for warranty work; GM or an LPE certified mechanic.
Shopdog, I think your write up was right on the mark, its just that I don't want to start messing around with LPE's work for at least a few years. Thanks for your help.
Shopdog, I think your write up was right on the mark, its just that I don't want to start messing around with LPE's work for at least a few years. Thanks for your help.
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 10,924
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From: Daytona Beach FL
Originally Posted by Jagcvette
...I'm kinda lazy and in a year from now don't want to have to try and remember where I put the book or where do need to go to figure out the codes.....
OBD II Trouble Codes
Scroll down the page to see 'em all. You can click on many of the codes to get more info.
Bob
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