I am looking for a diagnostic reader, one like you would use at Autozone etc. Just a cheap one to clear codes etc. What are the major brands out there? I have search for them and have only found the 3k plus tech 2. Suggestions?

 

The Tech 2 is being replaced by a new Global Diagnostics system using a notebook PC with Windows 7 OS. You may be able to pick up a used Tech 2 (including the CANDi module) now for a good price.

 

Tech 2s are still very expensive.

I got an Actron CP9410 PocketScan Plus from amazon for $54.

Then you can find the codes here http://www.obd-codes.com/trouble_codes/

 

STOP! If you own a C5,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,It has a BUILT IN Diagnostic Tool. It will post and display ALL of your C5 DTC's.

Heres ALL you need to know and do:

READING YOUR Engine Diagnostic Codes (DTCs)

The Diagnostic Display Mode is entered with the following procedure:
1) Turn on the ignition but don't start the engine.
2) Press the RESET button to turn off any warning messages. (i.e. door open, trunk open etc…)
3) Press and hold OPTIONS
4) While holding OPTIONS, press FUEL four times within a 10-second period.

Initially, on-board diagnostics go into an Automatic Mode which shows diagnostic codes in a pre-set sequence: PCM - TCS - RTD - BCM - IPC - RADIO - HVAC - LDCM - RDCM - SCM - RFA. All codes will be displayed for each. ( i.e. PCM = 4 codes)
If none are present in a given module, you will see No More Codes on the display.
There are two kinds of diagnostic codes, Current and History designated with a letter suffix, C or ;H. A current code indicates a malfunction is present in the module displaying data. A history code indicates a problem existed sometime in the last 40 or 50 ignition cycles. When not accompanied by a current code of the same number, it's potential evidence of a previous problem, now resolved, that was not removed by clearing the codes.
More likely it's an indication of an intermittent malfunction.
Intermittent codes are the most challenging of the diagnostics. An intermittent code may have happened once, may have happened more than once but is inconsistent or may be happening on a regular basis but not at the time the codes are displayed. History codes can also be caused by a current malfunction in a system that is not operating at the time codes are displayed. An example is the rear window defogger which doesn't operate until the Body Control Module detects engine rpm. For history codes set by a module that does not operate with the key on and engine off, a special diagnostic tool called a Scan Tester is necessary to properly diagnose the malfunction.
Once the system has displayed all modules, it goes into the manual mode which allows selection of each module using combinations of Driver Information Center buttons. Manual mode can also be entered during the automatic sequence by pressing any button except E/M. Once the display shows Manual Diagnostics, select a module by pressing the OPTIONS button to go forward or the TRIP button to go back. Once a module is selected, a code is displayed, and if more than one are present;
press GAGES to go forward or FUEL to go back.
To exit the diagnostic mode at any time, press E/M. If you want to erase codes in a given module, press RESET
To reset the codes once in manual mode, press and hold RESET until it displays NO CODES Press OPTIONS to go to the next module. Repeat the steps until you have reset the codes in all the computer modules.
NOTE!! Only reset the codes IF you want to - it is NOT necessary to do this. Clearing a code does not repair a problem. You are simply erasing the evidence of it in the module's memory. If you clear the code/s, and extinguish the Check Engine Light, your emissions status ready will NOT allow you to pass an emissions test until you have completed the required driving cycles.
Once you have the codes, the next question is: What to do with the information?
First, consult the factory service manual. Any serious C5 Do-It-Yourself owner should invest in the Corvette Service Manual of the appropriate model year. The Service Manual is really a requirement if you want to understand and work on your C5.

Here is very good site of DTC definitions:


http://www.gearchatter.com


Heres the one i use on my C6:

http://www.amazon.com/Actron-CP9180-.../dp/B000KG8KB0

BC

 

To do more than just the OBD II powertrain stuff take a look at AutoEnginuity's products:
http://autoenginuity.com/

They have both the basic OBD II and the enhanced capability that is required to service newer cars. Two separate software packages so you can by the basic and add the rest later if you want. Much less costly than a Tech II but has the command capabilities of the Tech 2. More costly than a basic OBD II scanner.

Bill

 

Actron for me also.

 

Harbor freight has a cheap code reader/eraser comes with the code book, for obd2 systems for 50 not fancy just functional.

The newer cars take a can am, and I'm not too sure about the current model, wally world had a can am obd2 reader, for around 80.

 

You might want to check the Equus/Innova line of code readers. They're well regarded...I like mine.

 

A OBD-2 code reader is not enough. It must employ CAN. I have a reader
OBD2 and it works fine on my 2003 MAZDA but not on the Vette (2007).
Just make sure they will work before purchase.

I did not know the C5-C6 Vettes have a on board diagnostics reader. I will try it.

 

The C5s are the only car manufactured in the world that have the On Board reader. It was dropped on the C6.

I find the OBDII readers useless. Over the years I have had more problems with the automaker specific systems on cars than with emissions stuff. ABS, Ride Control, HVAC, etc. If I have a CEL on a vehicle that isn't under warranty it is still cheaper to run down to the local Autozone or Advance Auto to get the code read.

Why do you think GM and the other manufacturers only give long warranties on the powertrains? It isn't because powertrains fail more often.

Bill

 

Caddy had them in the 80's, accessable thru the climate control. Read ecm and bcm codes.

 

Bill, I just checked out auto enginuity. It looks like it can do more including european coverage than my $8500.00 snap on modis can do.
Do you know if you can reprogram with it? I just replaced a radio in a buick because it took out the whole can/bus system and had to send it out to get unlocked.
Thanks for a great tip!

 

I won't claim it can outperform a much more expensive tool but it sort of is the minimum tool set to have. I would talk to them on the phone and see just exactly what is covered.

Bill