I am not sure if this is the right place for this question and if it's not please move it. I need to purchase a code reader but I have no idea which one I should purchase. I have a 2000 F350 4X4 6.8 V10 I need to read the codes on and this is the primary vehicle I need the code reader for. My wife drives a 1999 dodge caravan I might use it on and I also have a 1988 F250 with an EFI inline 6 it may be used on. My question is can I buy one code reader that will work on all 3 of these vehicles and if I can which one is it? Thank you in advance for your input.

 

the 88 is EEC-IV, the others are OBD-2. and they are not compatible.
if you have a smart phone there are programs that plug into the phone.
for the 88, there is a test plug under the hood you can use a paper clip or jumper wire on that will flash the CEL light on the dash to give you the codes.

 

Thank you sir, where can I find/buy this program for the smart phone? What will I need to connect the phone to the truck so I can read the codes?

 

An OBD-II Code reader is very handy to have around. There are some very expensive ones out there, but in my opinion, unless you are a professional mechanic, that's overkill. I bought a cheapo one, and I just did a little googling, and looks like Harbor Freight sells them, very similar to the one I have.
One thing with the cheaper ones, sometimes you'll get the code, but not what the code means, so you have to come back to google to figure it out. It's not rocket science.

I have no advice for you 1988 truck. As mentioned, the OBD2 readers aren't compatible.

I have never used the smartphone apps.

 

from what i have read on the forums the torque app for android and an OBD2/bluetooth adapter is what you need.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post14462521

other than that i have no idea, i have a plain old cellphone that does not do anything but make and take calls.