Code Reader

[CROW]

Do not have a code reader. Need one to read and hopefully clear codes on my just absolutely wonderful 2018 dually. Have had a Cummins for almost 20 years and never bought a code reader.
Appears most folks use something called Alfa.
What is the real name and where do I get this device???
Thanks in advance

 

[lpennock]

It is alfaOBD <www.alfaobd.com>
You will also need a Blue Tooth dongle. obdlinkMX <https://www.obdlink.com/> is the most reliable.
To take full advantage of alfaOBD on a 18+ you wall need an security bypass cable. Security Gate Bypass OBD2 Cable Compatible with 2018 2019 2020 2022 Dodge Cummins RAM

alfaOBD will do alot more than just clear codes. It will allow you turn on options that are available on the truck that were in higher trim levels.

 

[Topzide]

Second the AlfaOBD software!!!!!!!!!!!! You'll need an Android phone or tablet to work the easiest. Is only in Android and Windows. Get the MX+ Bluetooth OBD dongle. I've had this few a couple years now. Have changed several settings on my truck, my FIL 2020 with bypass cable and been great for clearing the occasional code that pops up! The MX+ dongle comes with a basic code reader software to use on other vehicles. Can also set up some gauges to view with the MX+ software! Best software setup for the RAM trucks! Have also programmed a FOBIK for my truck and a buddies Chrysler 300! You can now pull the pin for the truck without have to buy extra software or dealing with the dealer. Plenty of AlfaOBD support on here and other forums. Worth the $. Enjoy your truck!!!!!!!!!

 

[ScottLewis]

For my '06, I used both an Inova handheld unit and Torque Pro on my phone and tablet with a cheap OBD2 Bluetooth sender. The very inexpensive, or sometimes free, Torque program does many things including custom "dashboards" to display real time condition of many sensors, even 0-60 time and speed, Torque Pro is great!

 

[cricha]

I have the Alfa obd. pretty amazing what you can do with it.

 

[Ozymandias]

AlfaOBD isn't a device - it's just a software aka. App that runs on your smartphone or better tablet. Cost 50$ and you get it in the appstore.
And as mentioned a Bluetooth dongle is needed, easiest to get that on Amazon.

 

[RL7836]

I'm in the same boat as the Op, having just purchased a 2018 3500 SRW.

To take full advantage of alfaOBD on a 18+ you wall need an security bypass cable. Security Gate Bypass OBD2 Cable Compatible with 2018 2019 2020 2022 Dodge Cummins RAM

Is the URL for the security gate bypass cable correct? It doesn't go anywhere for me on either Chrome or Firefox.

 

[Topzide]

Try this for security bypass cable, https://www.kaodtech.com/product-page/security-module-bypass
I have this one and have used on a 2020 with no issues!

 

[dpotter]

I see there are several OBDLINK adapters. MX, CX, and LX. Looks like the MX has extra for Chevy & Ford, correct? What is the difference between them? What experience has anyone had for the best choice?

 

[Topzide]

MX+ is the preferred adapter for AlfaOBD. It has basic code reader for other vehicles with it. It's the one that I have and it has performed without issue. Have used it to read codes on other vehicles as well. The only thing I can say is, when hooking up the security bypass cable, it's a bit of a pain if you have big "paws" like myself! The Alfa software, for the price is a great tool for our trucks! Well worth it even if you need to purchase an Android tablet to run it on. I'm able to run it on my phone, so that's a big advantage to always have with me. Keep Bluetooth dongle in truck, just in case it's needed.

 

[dpotter]

Looks like the MX is the way to go. Thanks.