code readers

[Black_Splash]

What is a good code reader to use? I'm wanting to get one that can display the history if I can.

 

[RobbieD]

The engine management system, or computer, in the truck itself stores "Memory" codes. All of my trucks are OBD1 systems, and the reader I bought is an Innova Equus, #3145. Just a basic code reader that ran about 30 bucks, but it's one of the the best tools I ever picked up. I understand that OBD2 readers, for '95 and newer, are more expensive, though. Mine has more than paid for itself.

 

[MAKG]

How can it possibly EVER pay for itself? OBD-I code readers are functionally equivalent to a paper clip.

 

[RobbieD]

How can it possibly EVER pay for itself? OBD-I code readers are functionally equivalent to a paper clip.

Easy. Two of my three trucks have thrown CELs. In both cases once I had the codes, I used the shop manuals following the proper pin-point tests to know for sure what failed. Eliminated the "guess what's wrong and throw parts at it" syndrome, and saved my time by not farting around clueless.

I know what you're saying here, MAKG, but I have trouble following the blinks when using the test light or meter needle swing method (hey- some of us are just slow!). I like the reader plainly showing the codes as a readout, indicating the type of each code, and I like how it stores the retrieved codes until I clear them.

Besides, I like cool tools.

 

[Black_Splash]

OBD 2 is what I'm looking for to diagnose my wifes car. It comes up with a CEL when it rains and the car jitters when she presses the gas. I need one that can see the history because it's not on long enough to take it to AutoZone to get checked. She won't stop in herself.

 

[MAKG]

Even OBD-II has "hard" codes and "soft" codes. Hard codes go away once the condition lifts, but soft codes do not until they are cleared or the always-on power fails.

OBD-II also has "pending" (unconfirmed) codes that can be useful for diagnosing intermittents.

None of this is a function of the reader. It's in your PCM.

 

[Black_Splash]

Even OBD-II has "hard" codes and "soft" codes. Hard codes go away once the condition lifts, but soft codes do not until they are cleared or the always-on power fails.

OBD-II also has "pending" (unconfirmed) codes that can be useful for diagnosing intermittents.

None of this is a function of the reader. It's in your PCM.

Will any code reader display those codes? I would like to look at past codes also or do they delete after it is resolved?

 

[Booncha57]

I have an Equus 3100 and I like it so far. I got it for about $90 on amazon.