Recommendations on a code reader?

[doc73]

I am looking to get a code reader to check the engine codes if they pop up. I am looking for a $300 unit, somewhere in the 50 to 100 range. I see they have them at Autozone and even Harbor Freight(not that brave). Just looking for something to read my Chevy's codes, clearing is fine but not needed. Thanks.

[MtnGuy]

Amazon.com: ScanGauge II Ultra Compact 3-in-1 Automotive Computer with Customizable Real-Time Fuel Economy Digital Gauges: Automotive

All sorts of real time information.

I had the service engine light come on my truck recently. The code indicated that I had a computer power problem. I had let the battery run down to zilch when I left my GPS plugged in for about week. I reset the service engine warning, and all has been good since.....that puppy saved me about $80 in diagnostic cost at the local dealership.

I got the ScanGauge II originally to monitor my tranny temperature, but now I can monitor any number of items.

[doc73]

Here's a question for you in reference to this one.. can it show oil left remaining? My truck shows it on the dash display. My wifes has it but does not display it. Thanks for the reply

[MtnGuy]

Originally Posted by doc73

Here's a question for you in reference to this one.. can it show oil left remaining?

Not to my knowledge. It will show gas left remaining (with manual pre-programming tank size, and synchronizing the ScanGauge with actual gallons used after the 1st couple of fill-ups), but I didn't know any vehicle will show oil left remaining. I wouldn't think that would be a concern unless a vehicle really went through a lot of oil in between changes.

[Kuba]

Look into "Torque" app on itunes or Android store. Does everything, shows all sensors, reads codes etc..
If there is a code that is "unknown" it will automaticaly google it and give you definition. 11$ ebay code readers work with it like a charm.

[f5moab]

Originally Posted by MtnGuy

Not to my knowledge. It will show gas left remaining (with manual pre-programming tank size, and synchronizing the ScanGauge with actual gallons used after the 1st couple of fill-ups), but I didn't know any vehicle will show oil left remaining. I wouldn't think that would be a concern unless a vehicle really went through a lot of oil in between changes.

I have one of these connected full time on my H3 to read items not readable via the I/P such as trans temp, etc.
However, it will not always read the same item on all vehicles. For example, I can read the trans temp on my I5 engine; however, the same year, same vehicle but with a V8 will not display trans temp.

Best to contact the manufacture for details. But one thing is they are great to work with if there are any problems or questions.

[doc73]

Originally Posted by MtnGuy

Not to my knowledge. It will show gas left remaining (with manual pre-programming tank size, and synchronizing the ScanGauge with actual gallons used after the 1st couple of fill-ups), but I didn't know any vehicle will show oil left remaining. I wouldn't think that would be a concern unless a vehicle really went through a lot of oil in between changes.

Let me re-phrase... It is an oil LIFE sensor. Tells me how long until I need to replace the oil (oil change) vs the old 3K or 5K method.

[B47]

Originally Posted by doc73

Let me re-phrase... It is an oil LIFE sensor. Tells me how long until I need to replace the oil (oil change) vs the old 3K or 5K method.

Our new Cadillac SRX is equipped with OnStar and every month I get an Email from them stating how much oil life is left before change is due. OnStar is amazing - I got 2 Emails saying 3 tires were at 31-33 PSI (35 PSI recommended). I checked and found OnStar was correct - serviced them and no more alerts.

So the technology is there - not sure if if it could be retrofitted to your vehicle or if it would be cost effective.

[doc73]

Its there because we had gotten it with onstar as well when the car was new, it just does not show on the dash like my Silverado does. So I know it is there. Just was curious if the Scan Gauge would be able to read this.

[Cajun Po-Boy]

Originally Posted by Kuba

Look into "Torque" app on itunes or Android store. Does everything, shows all sensors, reads codes etc..
If there is a code that is "unknown" it will automaticaly google it and give you definition. 11$ ebay code readers work with it like a charm.

X2...least expensive method and works great!

[mhartzel]

Originally Posted by Cajun Po-Boy

X2...least expensive method and works great!

X3
I have this same setup and use it regularly to troubleshoot friends cars

[acadianbob]

Originally Posted by MtnGuy

Amazon.com: ScanGauge II Ultra Compact 3-in-1 Automotive Computer with Customizable Real-Time Fuel Economy Digital Gauges: Automotive

All sorts of real time information.

I had the service engine light come on my truck recently. The code indicated that I had a computer power problem. I had let the battery run down to zilch when I left my GPS plugged in for about week. I reset the service engine warning, and all has been good since.....that puppy saved me about $80 in diagnostic cost at the local dealership.

I got the ScanGauge II originally to monitor my tranny temperature, but now I can monitor any number of items.

X2!

[Sgt. Schultz]

You can check here for your vehicle - X-Gauge Commands : Linear Logic - Home of the ScanGauge

For GM vehicle - Engine Oil Life can be displayed as % Reamaining

[Super Coop]

I know it cost a little more, BUT.
I have a Bully Dog GT Gas Tuner in my truck amd it will read and reset, as well as allow you to change engine program, shift points, speed limiters, adjust speedo for tire size among other things. I have been very pleased, I have the 4.8l in my truck and the power/mileage difference with the performance tune in is a tremendous difference. With my old camper I would get 9-10 mpg before I got the Tuner, after it I got 12+ on the same trips as before with basically te same weightti n the camper, but much more power left while towing in the mountains, unlike pre tuner!
I got mine at Advanced, but made them price match Oreily autoparts.

[Filthy Beast]

The Torque app is for Android openly. I have DashCommand for my iPhone and it works great. There are several others for the iPhone too.

[MtnGuy]

Originally Posted by doc73

Let me re-phrase... It is an oil LIFE sensor. Tells me how long until I need to replace the oil (oil change) vs the old 3K or 5K method.

As Sgt. Shultz indicated with his link, it should read the remaining oil life as a percentage. To check for sure, you can contact ScanGauge to see if it that works with your particular vehicle.

Contact Us : Linear Logic - Home of the ScanGauge

You will need to program the particular code into the X-Gauge, but it is a pretty straight forward procedure.

[breezyhillfarm]

Ultra gauge. Much cheaper and very nice.


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[b_garage]

I have Edge Insight gauge (not a tuner) on my dash full time. I like being able to monitor different things. Easy to change details when you want to. On the fly code reader too.


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