OBDII Scanner - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

ajkalian · 12-15-2009, 02:12 PM

I've got a Actron 9135 scanner I bought from Autozone a long time ago and I can't count the number of times it has paid for itself. It's just a basic scanner. It reads the codes, and clears 'em. I have a Camry LE, 1MZFE with 210,000 miles on it, and have no problems, runs like a top.

But sooner or later it will be in need of some repairs. Maybe some major ones.

So I want to be sure that can diagnose the problem correctly, rather than chase my tail or have to rely on the dealer, or some crook mechanic. I was thinking of getting a newer scanner that had more capabilities than the one I have now.

I checked over at Amazon and they have the Actron 9185 for $230 and the top of the line Actron 9190 for $260.00.

I was also thinking of getting the AutoTap, or AutoEnginuity's software to be used on a laptop. AutoTap software goes for $200, and AutoEnginutiy goes for $250. Only problem is that I don't have a laptop, and I would have to get one for maybe $300, so I'd be looking at an investment of maybe $500-$550 for this option.

I'd like your guys opinion on spending that kind of money on a new hand held scanner, or software for a laptop, or if you had any other ideas on maybe another brand, or model.

Thanks,

Hajoca · 12-15-2009, 02:17 PM

I would stick to the unit you already have, and look to make list of what you predict you need to diagnose for the upcomming work.

I use a scan gage unit and a simple OBD2 reader/code clear unit.