Scan tools

[cdictas]

Gentlemen,

I'd like to buy a scantool but don't know which one to buy. I can't afford the GM tech 2 scanner, so that one is out. I'm looking to spend around $200. I was thinking about buying an actron just because I see alot of them in my local parts stores.

I'd like some opinions from all of you on what you bought (pros and cons).

Thanks,

Chuck

[navion]

Chuck,

I can't advise you on the Actron, but if you want one of the better quality scanners, I would do a little research and with a little luck you could find one that will fill your needs on "Ebay".

Britt

[cdictas]

Has anyone purchased a scan tool?

[JimD]

I have used this interface-to-a-laptop for OBDII vehicles other than Cadillac. Does a decent job on "P" codes and will reset the SES lamp.

Download the software and run it in 'Simulate' mode to get a feel for what it can do.

http://obddiagnostics.com/index.html

[sonjaab]

CHUCK..........Ya know a cheap GM OBD 2 scanner an be bought at

a big box parts store. I have seen them for $99 bucks.

But the darn different plug ins for other cars are $pendy !

Heck spend $329 and get ya a Hypertech 3 power programmer

for your ride.

Once you load the program into you Caddys PCM

you CAN also use it for ANY GM vehicle to check and clear codes and

change a FEW things..................................

I got tired of my 04 6.0 gettin' spanked by my buds 04 5.3 chevy.

MAN what a difference............and I only have it set for a 87

octane tune. More BALLS and better mpg. Getting 20 hiway !

I can imagine what one would do for a new N-star !............geo

[Logan]

MHO....the cheapes are just that.

Many of the Cadillacs do have a built in diagnostic system. Cadillac is the only GM brand to offer this option.

The cars are becoming more complex every year. ABS, airbags, etc on top of the this issue.

Most aftermarket scanners deal only with powertrain codes. Hmph.....anything else you will need the GM Tech 2. Alot of the aftermarket scan tool stuff is reverse enginreered...

Corvettes and Cadillacs now have door module codes etc.....

You really cannot fix a GM car without a GM Tech 2. We have one.

[sonjaab]

LOGAN.....You are sooo correct about that !

I have read elsewhere that a lot of the info. that only a genuine GM

Tech 2 machine has and can be used to change settings is not aval.

to other scanner makers because it is proprietary (spl) info. which

is the property of GM and most likely copyrited (spl).

I assume ALL automakers are the same

Sound correct to you?...it does make sense tho......................geo

[indo419]

Check out

http://autoenginuity.com

They sell an OBD2 interface you can hook up to a PC or PALM or Pocket PC.

They also sell a GM Enhancement option.

I spoke to their tech and he told me that for Northstar they can read all codes, real time monitor and record sensor data and perform some proprietary programming (like crank position sensor learn).

However, not all programming can be performed. For example you cannot program the KeyFOBs. I think only limited PCM functions can be programmed.

You will need a Tech 2 for full access.

The Autoenginuity interface and GM enhancement is about $350.00

I have used the www.digimoto.com interface before, but didn't like it. I think the Autoenginuity is a better product.