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OBD-ii Scanner Recommendations

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8.6K views 21 replies 9 participants last post by  Briand_oh  
#1 ·
I'm looking for a stand-alone (ie NOT iPhone or Android app) OBD-ii scanner for my 1996 Tercel and 2006 Corolla.

Features: live data, oxygen sensor and EVAP test, on-board monitoring, misfire info.
 
#2 ·
There's several "Best of Scanners for 2020" via Google. Might want to add SRS/ABS read and reset to your list of capabilities. All about how much your willing to spend.Check the OBD2 protocols of any unit you like because I think Toyota changed in 2003 along with other manufacturers. Also some will give you A/T transmission codes and others won't.
 
#3 ·
Thanks. The only scanner I could find that will work on 1996 OBD-ii, unlimited vehicle use (ie not charge extra to work on more than one vehicle), and give ABS/SRS/Transmission/engine codes is Autel MaxiLink 629


Thoughts about this one?
 
#11 ·
Op, what's your budget like for a scan tool? Check your local CL or even FB market place.

I hear Autel is a decent one, but you might have to pay extra for features to be unlocked. Do as much research as possible before pulling your trigger.



Best thing to do is to email Autel or call their customer service line to find out if there's hidden costs. I'd tell you, but I don't own one, so I can't say about hidden costs for access to features.

But, it doesn't look like it could provide misfire counters. You'd likely could have to get an Autel Maxi model for this feature. As this is a feature that's part of the bi-directional controls.
 
#5 ·
Which model Launch? This one? It mentions it works with OBD2 "after" 1996, so does that mean it includes 1996?
I read it as use it on cars built in 1997 or later. Dose your model work on the 1996's?

The Autel units get good reviews besides those on Amazon. I haven't used either the Launch or Autel but I do like the Torque Pro Software.
 
#7 ·
OBDLINK, Torque Pro, more advanced diagnostic tools. What are you planning to do with the tool? Do you just need codes? Live data? Read advanced codes? Utilize advanced diagnostic tools?
 
#14 ·
Thanks.

I normally respond same-day to comments on my posts; unfortunately, TN didn't notify me to responses to this thread.

Per the placard, my Tercel was made in 2/1996. It definitely is OBD-ii, because I see the port and during the last smog check, the tech scanned with it (and forgot to put the cover back on, LOL).

I was thinking about this Autel ML629 scanner:


I'm having second thoughts, as customer service has not responded to my question about lifetime update.
 
#19 ·
Some functions of bi-directional abilities will allow you to turn sensors on and off, may have an oscilloscope built in, or a built in multimeter. One function that stands out for sure is the misfire counters.

But since you have been posting in different Corolla gens, you should consider a used snap on. I suggest it because it has a multitude of adapters for the older models and has most makes.

This is something to take into consideration. But only if you buy an obdi or obd0 vehicle.

Edit : it also helps to invest in the factory service manuals too. As they provide information on testing sensors or components. It doesn't cover everything, but does help.
 
#20 ·
WRT OBD2 reader & Live DATA Trace Viewing & Logging 4 Streams on one Graph.

I asked here:

Have an ELM327 Blue Tooth. Lacks special service functions.
######
Looking for/Shopping List:
Reasonable cost (Ideally Less than US$230 [AUD$300],
Happy with hard cable to the OBD2 port.
Full 10 OBD2 Standard Tests
&
Special Service Reset Functions

PLUS Also Prefer:
Buttons Only Use is fine. Buttons & Touch Screen is ok. (Do not want "Touch Screen Only", its problematic when wearing gloves).
Colour Display
Option to Select & Graph 4 Traces from Data Stream Live Data (eg RPM, STFT, LTFT & Engine Op Temp or MAF) etc
Screen Capture & Internal Memory for Trace Storage
USB Cable Transfer/Access to Internal Memory
Option to Print Screen Capture & Traces from Internal Memory
Stand Alone Unit WiFi Update or USB Cable Update

O2 Sensor Test
EVAP carbon canister test
I/M Readiness Test (One Button Jump to would be good)
Battery Voltage Displayed graphed would be good from Live Data eg for when starting Car
USB Cable Transfer/Access to Internal Memory
Option to Print Screen Capture & Traces from Internal Memory
Option to Print Report eg I/M Readiness

ABS Brake Bleeding - Cycle the Pump
Air Bag Sensor Checking - Ohms
Wheel Speed Sensor Checking when stationary & Live Data while driving
Throttle Valve Matching & Re Learn
Electric Park Brake Reset

If possible Prefer “External Access micro SD Card Slot” nominal 32GB with option for larger eg 64 or 128GB Card as required. [Harder to get at this price point]

Most manuals say NO to OBD2 Plug & USB Pwr at same time
- micro USB connection so USB Cable can be used to Power up the Unit off the Car from a USB in Aux Socket or Std Mobile Ph type USB Battery

=>> For those that need to work on more than Toyota, what are you using?

Rob
 
#21 ·
=>> For those that need to work on more than Toyota, what are you using?
Rob
I'm not sure if it will do everything you want, but have you looked into a Blue Driver? It seemed to me to offer the best bang for buck beyond the most basic code readers when I got one last year. Hasn't let me down so far.

Here is an older review video (some of the features might be different now, I haven't re-watched it)
Blue Driver Review Video
 
#22 ·
Just a data point:

AutoZone has lending of Inova scanners if you want to try one out. Don't let them give you the very basic shop one that has to be plugged into counter computer. Different AZ have different vintage scanners. In the worst part of Cleveland, got the newest one. BUT...they did run the cc for buy/return. Other stores have allowed me to scan in parking lot. Some you leave a cc or driver's license. YMMV.