Code Reader recomendations

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Lester Durst

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Oct 17, 2003
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Location
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Fellows. Excuse me if I've asked this in the past (never acted on it if I did) but I'd like recommendations on a Code Reader. I don't have a "reliable" laptop so the program you can D/L of the internet (forgot the name) is out. Unless it is overwhelmingly recommended then perhaps I'll be looking for a "newish" laptop.

Anyways for a stand-alone Reader what recommendations can I get? Price wise up to $200-$250.... The only time I've had one used is when I've gone to the local car parts outlet and had codes read. The codes I was give were so general that they were pretty worthless....long story.

The vehicles I have are both 2002 Fords. One a S/T and the other a Ranger.

Thanks
 
OBDLink# MX+ WirelessBT ComModule($100)
+ YourAndroidPhon + OBDLink\Torque\Carista\...Apps
Reads\Resets\Graphs both Standard+Ford codes.
Good for routine DIYs, handy while driving to monitor temps\signals.

OBDLink# EX CabledUSB ComModule($50)
+ YourWindowsPC + OBDLink\ForScanApps($50)
Reads\Resets\Graphs\Configures both Standard+Ford codes.
Good for serious DIYs, easier than ToggleSwitched ELM327 modules.

No recommedation for traditional Dedicated\Cabled\StandAlone scanner.

More info at
https://www.obdlink.com/mxp/vs-bluedriverhttps://www.obdlink.com/products/obdlink-exhttps://forscan.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=6142
 
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I bought a Harbor Freight standalone one, because the OBD adapter I have (cheap Chinese one) couldnt' read the codes for a WRX for some reason ? The program I use on my Android phone is Torque and it's good, has worked well on several different cars including the SportTrac.

Anyway the Zurich zr4 was about $50, reads and clears codes fine. They have more expensive ones with more functionality but this one has been all I need.

Yes, the codes usually are not as helpful as one might hope.. most recently got a P0301 on my son's WRX, which is 'cylinder one misfire'. Possible causes for that code are, everything under the hood.. ignition, injectors, fuel line/pump, vacuum leak, etc etc etc.
 
I have the BlueDriver and like ok, it has a hard time with my Volvo. I wanted the OBDLink MX but it wasn’t compatible with iOS.
the next one I get will have ABS functions for bleeding.
 
Thanks Fellows. I took a look at the ODBLink program. I now realize I "purchased" that program several years ago to use with my WIn7 Laptop. Never could get the program "figgured out". My fault probably due to my "impatience". And "issues" I had with that Laptop.

That's why I'm asking about a stand alone Reader.

Any more thoughts are appreciated.
 
Does the Autel AL519
read ProprietaryFord TroubleCodes
such as for the Transmission\ABS\...?
 

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