Basic Code Reader For Quickies, Which Do You Prefer

I love using the Launch Diagun V for a quick, portable, cable free tool that is packed with features and capabilities.

As this thread shows, it is very useful to have Permanent DTCs displayed right away after connecting. I can confirm that Actron CP9680 works like that, but not sure if it fits other criteria. Would be great to have a list of basic readers that show Permanent DTCs immediately — apparently not all do.

My go to is an OBDLink MX+ because it's not too expensive and pretty versatile. Definitely recommend adding a flag to the dongle to keep from leaving it in a vehicle. I also have an Innova 3130c, Nexas NL102P and Cando HDCode 2. The 3130C was great but over time the cable jacket pulls away from the strain relief - likely due to storing in the bag with cable still installed. The NL102P is nice…

Hi Stephen, I prefer the Autel 906BT. They are compact and good for quick code reading and live data among other functions. It is Bluetooth and user friendly. Only good for 96' and later OBD 2 from what I have seen. Do not use it on a 95', that has been a bad experience for me on 95' Ford diesels. If you are looking for cheaper equipment, you may have serious issues. At the very least go with…

Thanks Glen. I do have 2 designated scanners, so the 906 isn't needed. But I agree, avoid Amazon. I forgot about harbor freight. Will have a look. You had an ecm issue that was caused by the scanner I believe? Can't remember the details.

Hi Stephen, I had the issue with my (early) 95' F350 Diesel shop truck. When I first got my 906BT, I went from vehicle to vehicle (my personal fleet) checking capabilities. it was when I connected it to the truck that the data PIDS were all way off or did not read. When I connected my Snap On Verus it reported a KAM error code and the engine would keep dying. It finally took using a breakout…

The other day I was doing a starter on a Honda. When finished I had to clear some codes. Cleared with koeo with the reader. I then had a crank no start. Turns out when I cleared it, the immobilizer completely shut down, no security light. Checked all my fuses, waited a few minutes, did a global reset. It then read the key and started just fine. I'm not sure why it freaked out the immobilizer…

I still like the snap on tools that power up from the DLC, You don't have to worry about walking out to the car and finding the battery dead in the scan tool. Plus it can get into most of the systems. I forget which version I currently have, it is a basic model with no scope and no bluetooth. It does a great job graphing, powers up quickly and they seem to make things easy to find.

Hi Richard, Sounds like you are still using the MT2500 “Red Brick”. They are still a great tool, but generally for older vehicles. Fortunately, battery technology has come a long way in newer scan tools. I wish they would upgrade the batteries for the Verus and Modis scanners. In my own opinion: Currently, most Snap On and OTC scan equipment has a useable life of only 3-5 years. Modern…

Hi Glen, its most likely a Solus or something newer. I have Verus, which has the bluetooth setup and has a battery that seems to last 3 or 4 hours off the charger. The other snap on tool I have, which I think is the Solus has a battery also the tool turns on when plugged into a DLC. I like that I don't have to plug it in when not using it, because I am fairly lazy. So half the time I go to grab…

Hi Richard, The way things have been going in the industry, even the dealers in my area are having more trouble than ever due to the ‘new age’ of subscription programming updates and software patches. The manufacturers are making it more difficult all the time. I hope the “right to repair laws” pick up the pace on a federal level, because this stupidity has gotten out of hand. Very few can work…

I like using OBD Fusion. play​.​google​.​com/store/apps/det… This is the Bluetooth ELM327 dongle I pair with the software. amazon​.​com/gp/product/B00… You can buy a cheaper dongle, but you can be sure it works when you have ~30K positive reviews for the unit. I've attached a report from OBD Fusion of a 2012 Kia Sorento that hadn't run the O2 monitor in over 12.5K miles. About $20 for the…

Another resource - youtube​.​com/watch?v=LqVx9l…

Travis, l'd like more information on the think diag please

I am a mobile programmer, diagnostics in Michigan, I have several “code Readers” Here is my opinion: The Bluetooth ones are handy as they can often times perform tasks that the handheld cannot. Get a MX+ dongle and download several apps on your phone. there are several available and most are free with limited options. Some charge for the pro version. But you can see if you like what the free…

My quick read scanner is an Autel 519. It loads quick, easy to check readiness codes and live data.

I have this for codes and monitors. $40 Autel AutoLink AL319

For a quick scan before I bring out the big gun scanner, I'll grab either the OTC 3210 or the Autel AL319/AL329(newer model) OTC 3210 does SRS & ABS plus has memory to retain codes, data stream, and FF. Autel AL319: Very fast connection, with a lot of features for a $40 scanner. A slightly newer model, AL329, has an improved Key pad.

We find the Autel AL329 is a very good basic quick tool. Will show codes and definitions, and basic scan data. Very quick.

I use the OBDLink MX+ and it works fine for me. Basic code and data checks are downloadable for more enhanced data. I usually only need about 3 or 4 PIDs up anyway for most of basic checks. It links quickly, and will clear codes as well. Used it on a variety of vehicles, and it has worked without issue. Anything more than basic stuff, I'm gonna hook up a real scanner.

Thank you, I'll have a look