Innova 3100 Scan Tool?

[tmcIlwain]

Since I'm soon to own a 2014, I thought it time to get my first Scan Tool.
The Innova 3100 seems a compromise between the basic readers and the advanced tools.

Any comments at to the advantages of getting a more expensive Innova Tool would be appreciated.
Here is a comparison of Innova model features:

Thanks,

Tom

 

[Jim W]

Tom, I purchased the Innova 3130 back in Feb 08; for my truck. I wanted one that would do both my truck and my wife's ford at the time. I have used this several times with total satisfaction. They make a great tool and the owner’s manual is easy to read and understand. I would recommend an Innova to anyone.

Jim W.

 

[tmcIlwain]

Tom, I purchased the Innova 3130 back in Feb 08; for my truck. I wanted one that would do both my truck and my wife's ford at the time. I have used this several times with total satisfaction. They make a great tool and the owner’s manual is easy to read and understand. I would recommend an Innova to anyone.
Jim W.

Thanks, Jim,
Are the extra features you get with the 3130 worth the extra cost? I don't understand half of the stuff in their spec sheets...

Tom

 

[Jim W]

I thought it was as I bought the 3130 model for the enhanced engine and transmission code ability reading. So far the code reader has done everything I have asked for it to do.

I purchased this before I installed my SmartyS67 and I was pulling a few CELS do to the emission on my 08. I have used this on my truck my Wife's Ford and now her VW TDI just checking to see if there where any CELS on the VW. None so far.

Jim W.

 

[Wayne M.]

I don't have a horse in the 4 gen race, but I am watching the scanner scene.

Guys be advised that the scanner you choose may not give the info you'd like to see! Looking at the chart above, the 3100 will not graph. To me, this is not good enough. I know guys will want different degree of ability, but believe me, once you get "into" it and if you're any kind of gearhead, you'll want more than what the 3100 offers. I've been spoiled by the DRB III on my 3gen truck, and anything else pales in comparison.

Also, be advised that there may not be a level of info accessible by an aftermarket tool. I know Chrysler ABS Diag info is very hard to get by certain scanners. I strongly advise a test drive before splurging. Personally, I'm looking into PC/ smartphone based tools.

 

[JR]

I'm about to pull the trigger on the 3160 because our Mountaineer is about to run out of the warranty and I will be doing all the repairs once that happens. I don't think any of the Innova scanners read ABS or SRS beyond 08.

 

[Bob V]

I have a 3100 and it has worked well for me on many vehicles, but I also found that I needed to be able to read ABS codes as well. I just purchases Actron brand http://www.summitracing.com/parts/anm-cp9580a?seid=srese1&gclid=CNj66_u6ob0CFROVfgodJacAvQ on craigslist for $80 that seems to have OTC software and has worked better but not as user friendly. I would recommend that you spend the extra now to get one with at least the abs capability.