odb2 scanners-standalone or pc, iPhone/Bluetooth opinions, recomendations

[shoebee2]

I went to buy an inexpensive odb2 scanner. Inexpensive is relative and the one that works with my kids cars, the subarus, will not work with my Mercedes or the wife's Chrysler.

So I am looking at getting an ODB TO USB link. They are inexpensive and support almost all vehicles via plugins.

I e used the Detroit Diesel/Alison suit which is pc based. Understand that that is a full,feature seve al 1000$ product but something a bit less feature rich might be just the ticket.

 

Amazon has has the ScanTool for 39.00. Not bad if it works.

https://www.amazon.com/ScanTool-425801-OBDLink-USB-Professional/dp/B005ZWM0R4#customerReviews

 

 

Do any of you use something like that? Advice, opinions?

Edited August 29, 2016 by shoebee2

[Fairtax4me]

You're gonna have a hard time finding full scale scan tool capability without spending several grand.

 

There are a few lower cost options on the market. Look into Autel and Launch brands.

 

Anything that you can get for $40 is basically just going to be a code reader. Live data would be a plus, but it's limited depending on the vehicle.

[msmithmmx]

I use a Wi-Fi odb2 connector with palmer dashcommand running on my andriod. Total solution under $25. Seriuos live data.

[shoebee2]

I use a Wi-Fi odb2 connector with palmer dashcommand running on my andriod. Total solution under $25. Seriuos live data.

Thanks for the replies. Which wifi adaptor do you use?

 

I've looked into this for some time. My problem is I used to be a heavy mechanic and worked in dealerships mostly so a but spoiled. There's no way I'm even going to spend 500 on a scanner.

 

There are open source options though. Openxc -distribution page here (http://openxcplatform.com ) is a really active software set that has Subaru support already. Unfortunately not for anything pre 05 as far as I can determine. From reading the boards I looks like you CAN get the codes from older models as long as they follow the specs which all cars sold in us market post '96 are supposed to. You would have to cross reference the codes read and create a definition file and include in the .config.xml file. That's a possibility.

 

I found this on eBay.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/LAUNCH-X431-CRP123-OBD2-Diagnostic-Tool-Auto-Scanner-Engine-Transmission-ABS-SRS-/152003494554

 

That looks like it just might be the ticket. Looks to be a blatant ripoff of the older snap-on.

 

This is the one I think I'm going to get. Looks like it does everything I want/need for a decent price.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002PYBZJO/

 

It's pc based but I have at least 10 laptops in various stages of disassembly and or modification so that's not a problem.

Here is a partial listing of Subaru specific codes and functions you can view and manipulate using the software. Again as with openxc there are a few .config modifications necessary for older ecu cars.

 

List of Subaru specific codes and systems you can access.

http://www.palmerperformance.com/support/supported_vehicles/generic_pids.php

 

Addition:

Using the palmerperformance software you can graph performance curves, power bands, turbo boost and fuel bands etc etc.

woot! Daddy gets a new toy,

Edited August 31, 2016 by shoebee2

[msmithmmx]

I use the Veepeak Mini WiFi OBD2 OBD II. Never hangs. Keep in mind this is Wi-Fi. It will impact your internet access on your phone. That is who I use a old discounted phone for this purpose. Torque is also good. Live data and reads codes. That one is 4.99.