I searched and read most of the older posts on the topic (2006 erra posts).
I was just wondering what the current thoughts are on the OBDII readers.

My local auto parts store has some as cheap as $63 up to $286 and I'm sure beyond that. I also read one post about linking to a lap top.

Suggestions? I'd obviously like to keep the costs down, but get adequate functionality..

Suggestions welcome.

 

I got one of these and it works fine. So far I've used it on my 4Runner, and a GMC and a Mazda. It isn't fancy but it does read and clear the codes. Comes with a CD with all the codes so you can look them up on a computer.

http://www.auteltech.com/gs300.htm

If you have a Princess Auto near you I got it there, on sale for $20.

 

cheap ones only pull generic codes and clear them. more expensive units can do alot more. i sell readers that are in the $7000 range at work.

KAL equipment is a good brand to look for

 

Get a OBDII scanner that supports CAN-bus. By law, 2008 model years use the updated CAN-bus interface standard.

I have an older OBDII scanner and I could not diagnose the check engine light on my friend's 2006 Mazda since Mazda was an early adopter of the CAN-bus standard.

 

SCANGAUGEII w/ XGAUGE would be a good start.

 

Auterra like devices with logging are light years ahead in usefulness to simple code readers, or sensor displays. Don't go the laptop way either, way too bulky with all the wires and such. Handheld organizer much more convenient. Can store days worth of sensor readings, can hold and read the device while test driving (without crashing).

 

Thanks.. yeah I looked at that one from princess auto.. they are 60$ at my local princess...

I'll do some reading on these others.. good tip with the laptop... I was thinking that route at one point.