Code reader recommendations?
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Cross-Country
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 64
Likes: 0
Code reader recommendations?
Looking for suggestions for a code reader. Are the units at the auto parts stores decent? Currently have a '94 F-150 and a '99 Explorer that it would potentially be used on. Also have an '89 Toyota Cressida though I've been told in the past that there's not much info available from it.
Thanks.
Thanks.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 20,789
Likes: 1,753
From: Kentucky
I have counted flashes for years and always hated it. I ponied up the ~$20 USD for an Equus 3145 a few years ago. Worth every penny IMHO. I gave my "code reader paper clip" to the neighbor boy down the street. He was delighted. 
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 6,185
Likes: 633
From: Houston/Sugar Land
Looking for suggestions for a code reader. Are the units at the auto parts stores decent? Currently have a '94 F-150 and a '99 Explorer that it would potentially be used on. Also have an '89 Toyota Cressida though I've been told in the past that there's not much info available from it.
Thanks.
Thanks.
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Laughing Gas
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 1,026
Likes: 23
Well. I've counted flashes for awhile now. Maybe if it was cheaper, cdn pesos don't buy a lot.
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Tuned
Joined: Apr 2015
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I use an Actron CP9690, it works with the pre-OBD2 vehicles AND OBD2 vehicles. And it lets you view real time data... something you can't do with a paperclip. For pre-OBD2 vehicles like your Ford (and possibly your Toyota) it comes with adapters that fit their proprietary diagnostic ports.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 1,026
Likes: 23
I use the same one as the guys above and love it. If you have a manual shift order the extension for it because you will need to have the clutch depressed while you test with reader or the treasured paper clip. I can't believe Randy gave his away but he is a nice guy and made some kiid giddy. Sandy
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 23,667
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From: Easton,Ks
On all vehicles with a 4.9L engine, the clutch must be depressed during the Key On Engine Off Self-Test.
This does not apply to your 1995 5.8L engine.
This does not apply to your 1995 5.8L engine.
Mountain Pass
Joined: Mar 2019
Posts: 183
Likes: 7
From: MO
I use this reader, along with the extension cable so I can use from the drivers seat. A certain veteran Ford truck forum poster discourages the use of OBD1 readers like this on our EEC-IV engines - claiming they are unreliable, but I've only heard that claim from him.
