Code Reader
 

I'm not sure if this is the right forum, so mods feel free to move if necessary.

I need a code reader for my 3.4 '95. It needs to be a fair price. If you don't know, it's got the OBD 2 style plug, but not readable with the standard '96+ code readers... I guess it's call OBD 1.5 or something. I know there are really expensive code readers out there that do everything, but they're way out of the price range. I've looked on eBay a few times with no luck.

Any help? Thanks!

Diagnostic Scan Tools go for thousands of dollars. Now, if you want a 'code only' scanner, which is nearly useless in my opinion (its no different than what Autozone or ORiellys or anyone else uses). It wont tell you whats wrong, just the code you're throwing.

Isn't there a link on the v6 section that says what each code is? If that's the case, I don't see the problem with that... As long as we can see what the problem is, it shouldn't matter.

Indeed, there is a list of all OBDII DTC's, I made it I believe lol.

The difference between a diagnostic scanner and a code reader is this. A diagnostic scanner does 'somewhat' of what it says, if it sees a multitude of codes, it can give you an idea of what can cause all of those to go wrong at the same time. Meaning, none of those codes can be the initial problem, but all of certain things together create its own individual problem. A scanner just reads the codes on the computer.

A scanner is handy, but I dont see paying $70 for one at your local auto parts store (this is the item I assume you're wanting) when they scan them for free. However, I do not know if they have a scanner capable of scanning a 95 OBD system, due to it being the 'change over' year as you mentioned (it is sometimes refered to as OBD 1.5). I own a Snap-On Solus Diagnostic Scanner, which is around 6k with all the keys these days, and the old red brick, so i've never had to use a regular scanner in years. I'll ask around about a scanner for a 95 and get back to you.

Thanks for the help. The dealer that sold me the car a big red Snap-on reader, that did it all. I'd imagine it was the same thing you have. We didn't know it wouldn't handle the regular OBDII scanner for that reason...

Plus we do most all of our own work, so a scanner would be handy. So, going to the auto store to have the computer read seems like going out of the way. Would they read it even if you're not getting work done?

I use an autotap that does the same as the snap on one I used at the dealer did, and it runs about $400

That sounds good, except for the fact that it is $300 more than we want to spend:banghead:. Just a standard "code only" as mentioned above would be fine...

most parts stores carry them starting at about $40 with obdII or $10 id obdi

I'll have to check that out... Thanks!