Feedback on OBD2 Tuner Scams…
I'm getting ready to review a pair of OBD2 Readers that are NOT scams!
Hey Mike,
Whoa! There are several good reasons to have a simpler OBD11 READER that is not a scam. Inexpensive ones can give you good info. e.g check engine light could be many things and the reader can indicate more info and help you decide how to proceed and how important. You are talking about a whole other animal.
I humbly suggest you differentiate the difference to those who have no idea about use of the simpler indicator only OBD2 readers that can display errors for problems such as a loose gas cap .
Thanks for the column - Newt
Hey Newt,
You are 100% correct. A basic OBD2 reader that can reset simple error codes is a great thing to have on the road. When that check engine light comes on, you can get an idea if the fault is something simple or needs a tow truck.
Here’s what I’ve used since 2009 in my Sprinter van, and now my Nissan Frontier truck. It’s the ScanGaugeII which is still being made and sold.
But wait, there’s more!
While the ScanGaugeII is a great basic reader you can buy for $150, ScanGaugeIII is now available around $270. I’ve just talked to ScanGauge, and they’re sending me one for review which will arrive next week.
I’ll install it in my F-150 truck with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine and run it through its paces for a review. Apparently it will report all sorts of things including transmission temperature, which is really important while towing. Yes, I’ll take screen shots!
Please Stand By for a review…
Let’s play safe out there… Mike
I've run a ScangaugeII for years, 1st in a Chevy gasser, now in my diesel Sprinter. Primary reason I wanted it was exactly as mentioned - transmission temperature - better than an idiot light on the dash! Especially important these days that many transmissions are sealed, not even dipsticks. You can get simple code READERS for even less money - plug in to the OBD port, get a code number. A quick Google scan with the vehicle and the code number will let you know what tripped the engine light.
My advice, be careful when using bidirectional OBD2 scanners. If used for reading and resetting pending codes, no issue. Most will not reset permanent codes without a specific drive cycle for the vehicle. And if changing ECM parameters without understanding of what is occurring, engine and/or powertrain operation can be compromised for the worst. And in states with Emission inspections, tampering with performance curves can result in test failure when not matching OEM code. If it is not broke, don’t fix it.