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Which code reader should I get?

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Old Feb 7, 2008 | 12:45 PM
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Which code reader should I get?

I have an '03 F250 6.0L with the TorqShift that I am finishing up a rebuild on. I need to read the codes to diagnose the ABS light that is on and the Airbag light. CEL is not on, but I would like to read any codes that it has in memory that don't set that off as well.

Does anyone know which code reader would do all this and isn't too outrageously priced? I saw one for sale in the classifieds section a while back, but I can't remember the brand and I'm really kicking myself for not getting it.

Alternatively, is there anyone in Oregon or Southern Washington that has one with these capabilities that wouldn't mind reading my codes? I just hate paying the dealership to do it when one trip there pays for most of the reader.

Thanks!
 
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Old Feb 7, 2008 | 12:47 PM
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Get a SCT...you get the code reader and a whole lot of fun with it
 
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Old Feb 7, 2008 | 12:48 PM
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But if that's not an option, go to advanced auto or a store like that, usually they will read codes for you for free
 
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Old Feb 7, 2008 | 01:00 PM
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Do they have the special Ford readers at the autoparts stores to check everything or do they just read the generic codes? I think like the ABS codes might need the detailed Ford code listings to determine which speed sensor is bad.

Does the SCT come with the standard OBDII codes or will it read the Ford-specific codes as well? What's the cost on it? Thanks!
 
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Old Feb 7, 2008 | 01:26 PM
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The SCT (Tuner) might be more fun, but it will end up costing you more when you start adding guages, intake, exhaust, etc. etc.

The ones available from the auto parts store usually don't help much. Auto Enginuity is a popular scanner that is PSD compatible. You have to buy the enhanced version to get all the codes. The cheapest place to get it is here: http://www.itpdiesel.com/store.php?c...on=show_detail
 
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Old Feb 7, 2008 | 02:05 PM
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Yep, the Auto Enginuity scanner is the one I missed in the classifieds section. It came with the Ford package for $300, guess it wasn't that great a savings, I'd rather buy new for $40 more. I'll try to get it scanned locally for free, if I can't I might get either the Auto Enginuity or SCT.
 
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Old Feb 9, 2008 | 01:19 PM
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If I go with an SCT, which model should I get to allow me to read all the codes? Do they all have this capability? Not looking to spend a whole lot, would the SF Strategy Flash Device do all I need?
 
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Old Feb 10, 2008 | 09:40 PM
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Originally Posted by cartmanea
If I go with an SCT, which model should I get to allow me to read all the codes? Do they all have this capability? Not looking to spend a whole lot, would the SF Strategy Flash Device do all I need?
I beleive all of the SCT's will read codes. I know for a fact the X3 and livewire do. The sct's will read the codes, but their main function is to gain all that extra power. There are probably cheaper options for you if you JUST want a codereader, but if you want a codereader and something else that's a whole lotta fun, then go wit the SCT
 
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Old Feb 10, 2008 | 11:42 PM
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I wouldn't be opposed to a little more than just a code reader
 
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