OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner Tool – Engine Code Reader with Live Data, I/M Readiness, Battery Voltage Tester, Code Eraser & 35,901 DTC Lookup for OBD II Vehicles

This is reader to keep around it seems to have all of the functions that my $80 code reader I got from Harbor freight has. It tells you right there on the screen what your trouble codes description is so you don’t automatically have to Google every code it gives you if the description is clear enough. The OBD cord is long enough to comfortably hold in your hand while you sit in the driver seat. The screen is bright enough to see even during the daytime. The screen and button layout is easy enough to figure out, except figuring out how to get back from a menu or which button is used to erase your codes can be a little confusing because not everything has its own button so some buttons will say one thing on the button, but are used in different menus for different options but once you get the hang of it, it’s just fine. Overall, it’s great value for such an important piece of diagnostic equipment or to just keep in your center console for those rainy days. It connects quickly reads the codes quickly and I’ve used it in multiple GM pickup trucks at Mitsubishi Lancer, a Hyundai Santa Fe and multiple other vehicles.

I’m very happy with this OBD2 diagnostic scanner. It’s easy to use and has a clear, responsive display. It quickly reads and clears check engine codes, and I really like the I/M readiness feature and built-in voltage tester. The data stream function is also helpful for checking vehicle information in real time. The compact design and simple buttons make it convenient to keep in the car and use when needed. Overall, it’s a practical and useful tool for basic vehicle diagnostics and maintenance.

I am not a car expert. I am not a car enthusiast. I learn a lot about my car and maintenance watching YouTube.

I had a "code" come up on my car a couple of years ago. Well, more correctly, one of the idiot lights on my dashboard lit up and I had no idea what was wrong because the car was driving fine. I drove to the local auto parts store and they loaned me a plug in device called an ODB2 scanner. It plugs in that “trapezoidal” plug under your dash board. (The odd shaped rectangle with both sides going in and the top shorter than the bottom.)

I don’t think I will ever be able to lose that math teacher inside me.

Anyway, you get a number, or a code. You can then look up the code and fix the problem. It turned out the idiot light on my car was telling me the gas cap was not on. I can’t believe I just admitted that. That said, I’m really glad I didn’t go to a mechanic. I’m not sure if the embarrassment or cost would have been worse.

My mechanic told me that he got a code on the car at the last annual service and semi-annual oil change. The code was for a coolant system sensor failure. There was no evidence of system failure, so we agreed that I would just watch it, and let him know if it happened again. His device was able to “reset” the code, and turn off the dashboard light. This device does the exact same thing. You can reset codes and lights on your dash with this tool. If the problem is recurring, it will pop up again, just so you know. This does not repair. It just turns off the idiot lights on your dash temporarily.

Since I got it, I have been kind of crazy plugging it in every couple of days to see if I get an error code. So far, so good, but I know if anything comes up, I’m ready to read it, and call the mechanic if necessary.

If you would like to check your car pretty much the same way your mechanic checks it, this is an inexpensive source of really good data. I intend no offense to professional mechanics who I admire and respect greatly. I do enjoy saving a dollar or ten, so being able to diagnose things and determine if I can fix them, or if I need a professional seems like an excellent investment, and this OBD2 scanner is definitely a good value.

It works exactly as I’d hoped. It is affordable. It is easy to use and easy to connect. It is a winner and a recommendation for me.