I think it is time to purchase my own ODB-II scanner. I would like to be able to read the CEL codes and pending codes, as well as be able to clear codes. Reading tranny codes would be nice, but i guess not required. Ideally i would like one that would cycle the ABS valves to get a real break fluid flush, but, i am probably asking for too much here, so that is only a "nice to have". Are there any cool features that i am missing that i should think about?

Ideally i would like to spend as little as possible, but i want a good solid reader and i realize you get what you pay for.

It would primairly be for the truck in my sig, but the more universal the better.

Anyone have any experience, suggestions or warnings?

 

I just recently got an Auto Enginuity scanner with the ford add on. I would say, medium price with a whole lot of benifits for an average user. It does also have the abs feature. You would need to have a laptop tho or some kind of palm unit to run it on. It is basically the program with the cable that they send you. Has real time, and recording features and reads all the sensors that the truck has on it available thru the obd II. It really shines on the powerstrokes, and works well on the gas motors.
The basic kit without the add on will read most of the basic trouble codes for the domestics, and add ons for them and the imports are available seperately as the need arises.

 

I agree with the above post. I don't have an AutoEnginuity (I have an Actron 9180) but it's high on my tool wish list.

 

AutoEnginuity>>>I like mine!!

 

thanks guys, i guess the consensus is the autoenginuity unit is what i should get. I suppose the Total Ford ScanTool Bundle for $379.95 is the way to go then. This is about 2x the price i had set aside. Looks like i will need to save up some more pennies.

Has anyone tried the speedtracer program? I was going to do the SPD y-pipe mod, and i would like some kind of before-after data to see if I really gain anything by doing it.

 

If this suggestion is "overkill" for you, listen up. I did NOT want a compete computer version. I only wanted something to read the standard error codes and reasons for a CEL. I bought (at or near the price you had set aside) an INNOVA 3130. Goggle this: innova 3130 scan too . The link will get you many places to look at them....There are other versions, better (more expensive) and less.......3100 - 3110 - 3120 etc.

 

Thanks BPofMD, that was exactly what i needed but unfortunately i looked at the Auto Enginuity website and now i just can't resist the pretty interface with colorful graphs and data charts etc... I am a geeky engineer, and the autoenginuity unit plays right into my personality.

 

Contact Clay at Riffraff Diesel (site sponsor), I just picked up AutoEnginuity with the enhanced Ford bundle for my Power Stroke for $339 shipped.

AutoEnginuity Ford Enhanced bundle from Riffraff Diesel

 

Before you order shoot me a pm. After I purchased mine they send me emails ever so often with some rebates. Next time I will save them and let ya have em.

 

I bought a Wal-mart jobbie. Saved me a ton of money. At least I know what to tell the Stealership when I bring it in.