I'm looking for a decent generic scan tool for my 2003 Escape 2.0L. Ideally, I want one that can read PIDs from the GEM, as per the diagnostic procedures in the service manual. Or is it strictly the megabucks tools that can do that?

 

What is your budget?

 

What I've found to be an unbeatable deal, if you have an Android phone or tablet, is a Bluetooth scanner combined with the Torque app. I have an HH OBD scanner like this one http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/281887494208?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul_noapp=true, which was $35 when I bought it, but is commonly found for under $10 now. The app can be downloaded from the Google store - it was $5 when I got mine. I believe this will give you all the access you are looking for, and has many custom set-ups available if you are so inclined.

 

What is the entry level for a scan tool that will do what I need?

 

Lots of current bad reviews on the Android app.

 

The Android app Torque Pro and the BT dongle will be useless for what the OP asked for, access to the GEM and other such sub-systems.

However, check out the Android app "Forscan". It's author is making inroads into a lot of the vehicle sub-systems as he develops the app's capabilities.

 

Thanks for all the suggestions. I'm 100% iOS, so Torque is out, but I just tried the iOS version of FORScan and it did exactly what I needed, so I'm happy.