OBD II scan tool help

[jkern]

i am looking for a PC (laptop) based scan tool that will read generic OBD II information as well as GM, Chrysler, Ford, and Toyota specific vehicles. there seems to be many choices. any recommendations, thoughts, ideas, etc? don't need a commercial product, i am a do it myselfer, just wanting to be able to read which ABS sensor is bad, or reset the MIL after i fix the miss, etc.

 

[Gene Heck]

I have 2 different handhelds. 1 is about 10 yrs old and the other is about a year or so. I can't right now recall the brands. The reason I had to buy a second one was because of the newer technologies, canbus etc. that wasn't used in the 90's.



When I bought my 2nd I bought a laptop version but sent it back and exchanged it for the handheld that I noted above. The reason was is because a laptop screen isn't that good out in the bright daylight. Just something for you to consider. Also a handheld is easier to use if you are collecting data as you are driving have it laying on the seat as opposed to a large cumbersome laptop. And not as expensive to replace if you lose it (read get stolen) or damage it, (drop it etc. ). 1 more thing, a scanner is a dedicated tool made to do that job and will usually do it better than something like a computer that you are running a "generic" program on.



Just some things to think about.

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

I have 2 different handhelds. 1 is about 10 yrs old and the other is about a year or so. I can't right now recall the brands. The reason I had to buy a second one was because of the newer technologies, canbus etc. that wasn't used in the 90's.



When I bought my 2nd I bought a laptop version but sent it back and exchanged it for the handheld that I noted above. The reason was is because a laptop screen isn't that good out in the bright daylight. Just something for you to consider. Also a handheld is easier to use if you are collecting data as you are driving have it laying on the seat as opposed to a large cumbersome laptop. And not as expensive to replace if you lose it (read get stolen) or damage it, (drop it etc. ). 1 more thing, a scanner is a dedicated tool made to do that job and will usually do it better than something like a computer that you are running a "generic" program on.



Just some things to think about.

YUP - I agree, especially if use while down the road is planned - and here's what I use;



Amazon.com: actron 9145

 

[rbattelle]

I run Alex Pepers software, and I run it continuously.

Ryan

 

[jkern]

thanks for the thoughts so far guys... i have a VAG tool that i have used for years and have had good luck with it, but it doesn't read much except VW, audi and some chrysler stuff... and i have some other chrysler, ford, and GM stuff i would like to use a scanner on too.

 

[HGreen]

Have you checked out Auterra.com, I have their Palm version and have used the PC version, works quite well on just about all vehicles.