Best code reader for the money?
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Freshman User
Joined: Nov 2009
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From: bend,or
Best code reader for the money?
Hello I am new to the site but have been lurking for awhile, picking up lots of good info.My Question is for the money what code reader is best? My 03 6.0 cali emission truck almost always sets the cel when I tow heavy loads 5k and up.I have 4" exhaust as the only engine mod ,the truck has 99k on it and Ive owned since new.The truck has had a ton of warranty work done on it ending with a short block at 63k.Dealer claims the 4" exhaust sets egr code and cel on the truck?Otherwise runs great and I do clean the egr periodically,.any ideas ? thanks 
Post Fiend
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 10,626
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From: Plano TX and Brentwood TN
AutoEnginuity is by far the best bang for your buck. You'll need to get the Ford Enhancement License as well as the generic coverage without that license is pathetic for our vehicles. The generic coverage is 1 module with about 9 sensors on it. The coverage with the license is 9 modules with a crap load of sensors, the enhance powertrain module has 464(I think, it's 460 something I'm pretty sure) sensors on it alone. The other 8 modules aren't as extensive, but the coverage is really good.
That's what I would suggest anyway.
That's what I would suggest anyway.
Post Fiend
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 12,123
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From: N. Fort Worth, tx
4" exhaust should not be setting an egr code. what code are you getting there a bunch of egr related codes.
all of that said cali emmision trucks from what I gather have some issues with setting egr codes. were the 50 state and fed emmison programs dont.
all of that said cali emmision trucks from what I gather have some issues with setting egr codes. were the 50 state and fed emmison programs dont.
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2007
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If you're getting a P0401(insufficient EGR flow), don't worry about it.. Get a ScanGuageII and when the CEL gets lit you can check the code while you're driving.. Then you can clear it at your next stop..
The digital readout is easy on the eyes and it can display some useful realtime info..
The digital readout is easy on the eyes and it can display some useful realtime info..
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Freshman User
Joined: Nov 2009
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From: bend,or
Thanks for the replies I am doing some research now to make my choice the autoengiuity is sure a top quality unit with capabilities galore somewhat expensive,the scanguage2 might have potential also for less than half the cost.
Post Fiend
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 10,626
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From: Plano TX and Brentwood TN
ScanGauge won't be able to pull all the codes, nor will it let you do tests like Injector Buzz Test or change the speedo for up to 40" tires(dealers can only go up to 37").
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Lead Driver
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AE is a much more powerful diagnostic tool for sure.. For a recurring CEL due to EGR codes, I think a SG is a more convenient option.. My X has an 03 CA motor in it and I go through periods where it'll throw codes when I tow.. With a SG I can pull the code as soon as it pops up and see if it's a nuisance code or not... It's an easy way to get some peace of mind without having to pull over and break out the laptop.. The code can't be cleared until I shut off the engine, but at least I know what it is without having to stop..
As to the cause of the CEL, i've been told the CA calibrations(especially the older 06E17 flashes) are much more sensitive to induction and exhaust flow.. The comparative tables that are used are stricter than the 49 state trucks..Very, very tiny leaks can trigger the CEL.. These are difficult to find as they are so small..
As to the cause of the CEL, i've been told the CA calibrations(especially the older 06E17 flashes) are much more sensitive to induction and exhaust flow.. The comparative tables that are used are stricter than the 49 state trucks..Very, very tiny leaks can trigger the CEL.. These are difficult to find as they are so small..
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Post Fiend
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 10,626
Likes: 7
From: Plano TX and Brentwood TN
AE is a much more powerful diagnostic tool for sure.. For a recurring CEL due to EGR codes, I think a SG is a more convenient option.. My X has an 03 CA motor in it and I go through periods where it'll throw codes when I tow.. With a SG I can pull the code as soon as it pops up and see if it's a nuisance code or not... It's an easy way to get some peace of mind without having to pull over and break out the laptop.. The code can't be cleared until I shut off the engine, but at least I know what it is without having to stop..
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