What scan tool are you using?

[canut]

Topdon Artidiag 600s for serious stuff and Android app (TorquePro) on an old phone w/OBD2 Bluetooth adapter for quick look at standard stuff when running on my Sorento and GMC.
As far as my '94 Z28 I'm using 1990's DataMaster app for logging and a couple of other OLD OBD1 apps on an ancient windows laptop for reading/writing the tune. Still have an elm benchtop setup that allowed me to write different test tunes at my desk (I have two PCM's for the Z28 that I swap back and forth). The burning chips and writing to PCM days are long gone as cost of software and proprietary code from manufactures has killed the DIY tuning hobby.

 

[greg vess]

I can't remember what brand it it but it a fairly big handheld tool that plugs into the OBDll port and shows not only the codes but the correct fault that threw the code. Very helpful and so far it hasn't been wrong. Makes working on these new cars a snap especially on my truck where there is plenty of room to work with under the hood. Everyone should own one wether the work on them or not. That way it keeps the mechanic you use honest.

 

[Gingerbeard Man]

Used an Autel 808S but returned it and am waiting for a MUCAR BT200S which is also bidirectional and comes with lifetime updates at no cost at 1/5 of the cost of the Autel. And being a BT unit, I don't have to make sure another device is charged.

 

[lewdog]

I use a zurich zr8 I believe it says. It works for general diagnosis.A snap on ( red brick ) is still around somewhere! I need to expand my selections.

Any reasonable suggestions for maintaining my own stuff ?

 

[canut]

Looked at the ZR8 site and it looks like a pretty comprehensive scanner. Not knowing you current skill level it's hard to recommend what you need to "maintain your own stuff"., There are some very basic books and info on the internet up to high end performance tuning. As an example here is s basic site https://ricksfreeautorepairadvice.com/how-to-use-scan-tool-live-data-to-diagnose-vehicle-issues/ , It basically explains the important sensors and what readings to expect. I did a search on " how to read automotive sensor data " and it was one of many hits.

 

[Outlier]

The only scan tool I currently have is VCDS. In the near future, I need to find something for my truck. I would probably lean more towards the Topdon Phoenix Lite 3 for general use. From what I have seen, they seem to have done a better job of catering to the USA market. If I'm feeling cheap when the time comes, I may just get a Launch X431.

Launch:

https://www.amazon.com/LAUNCH-X431-2-0-Nissan-Bi-Directional/dp/B0D9GLVQDW/ref=sr_1_1?sr=8-1

Topdon:

Phoenix Lite 3

The Phoenix Lite 3 is a compact diagnostic scanner designed for automotive professionals, enthusiasts, and small repair shops. Tailored to meet the diverse needs of the automotive industry, Phoenix Lite 3 offers unparalleled functionality and affordability. With features like CAN-FD protocol...

www.topdon.us

 

[joel2000]

Topdon Artidiag pro here and Forscan lite. Both are smarter than me but they make me learn.

 

[harrycalahan]

Better than owning a scanner is having a buddy with one. Good friend got the T10 earlier this year. And he owes me some favors should I need them. Its cheaper that way.

 

[sniper22]

Better than owning a scanner is having a buddy with one. Good friend got the T10 earlier this year. And he owes me some favors should I need them. Its cheaper that way.

What is a T10? I learned my lesson about assuming..

 

[harrycalahan]

What is a T10? I learned my lesson about assuming..

Harbor freight