which scan tool to buy

[FIRIE]

Hi Guys

Not sure if there's been any discussions on scan tools lately(couldn't find any in the search engine)Im looking for either a scan tool or the iphone with the scan tool app . Not sure if the iphone with app really does the job but if any tech heads out there disagree please let me know.I would like models and information on scan tools that work with 2008 model hilux's.If people know of a product that any dum ass could use that does everything then I need it .Reason for all this is the ABS light has come on and Im still trying to fix it.

Well thanks for any info

[Loosey]

Hey mate,

You'd be after a Scangauge II, i dont personally own one of these, but they sound like what your after, they do alot more then just clear fault codes also.

[andy666]

The local auto one store here is selling a cheap hand held scanner for around $200. From the box it's a generic obd11 scanner. For that price though it would probably only read out the code number and maybe be able to clear it.

If you are just wanting it because your abs light is on why not just get the code read at a local mechanics? It would be cheaper then buying a scanner.

ps: iPhone app??? Never heard of this. How's it supposed to connect?

[Anth D]

Go the Scangauge II, excellent pieces of kit.

[TTR]

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/dashcommand-obd-ii-gauge-dashboards/id321293183?mt=8

[dano85]

Where do you get the iPhone plug?
Has anyone done this?

[Noidea]

Go the Scangauge II, excellent pieces of kit.

x 2

[TTR]

Where do you get the iPhone plug?
Has anyone done this?

http://palmerperformance.com/hardware/ for the hardware... Have not done this but looking into it.. Would be great on the iPad or even ph in the cradle..

[mitch_893]

Ive got an iPhone app and the appropriate wireless hardware. Plugged it all in and discovered it didn't work with the Lux. Then I tried it on a vt commodore, same thing didn't work. Finally I tried a Mazda 3 and that worked perfectly. If any one knows how to make it work on the Lux tht would be sweet!

[SR5 2NV]

Has anyone used the pc software. There are a few of them around for $$. Anyone know of a torrent?
And also are they any good

[Philby]

I have used Palmer Performance ScanXL pc software on both Aussie and US ecu's. No problems so far.......

[VMN]

For smart phones, Grab a Bluetooth one from these guys http://www.obdpros.com/ I have their USB version. These are firmware upgradeable so they will be useable if something changes in the future.

The software they bundle comes from an Aussie in Melbourne. http://www.glmsoftware.com/

They come with a couple of free software tools which will let you read trouble codes and reset the Check engine light. Nothing fancy but would get you out of trouble.

[bansheebuzz]

Firie. None of theses cheep code readers will help you with abs system. These cheep items purely do engines that are based on the obd2 system and still don't reveal everything as there is always manufacturer specifics that fall outside the obd2 standard.

Mitch. That's why it did not work on your hilux, it's an 06 and there non obd2, same with the vt, they may have the standard 16 pin diagnostic port but work on the manufactures protocol.

These things are great if your are into your gadgets and give you limited insite to whats going on but don't expect to be a diagnostic guru by getting one. Scan tools don't solve problems on there own

[mitch_893]

Well 94 was when obd2 sort of became the standard. Pretty sure vt is obd2, GM introduced the tech2 scanner for It. VS Backwards was tech1. I was more thinking the lack of a can-bus setup would be the cause. Wasn't till vz I think canbus first appeared in commodores.

[StevenS]

My 05 Hilux doesn't seem to work with normal scan tools, neither does a mates 06. We both have the D4Ds before they changed the ECU mid 06

[OFFTRAK]

My 05 Hilux doesn't seem to work with normal scan tools, neither does a mates 06. We both have the D4Ds before they changed the ECU mid 06

I have both a ScanGaugeII (doesn't work on my '05) and a Smart Gauge (does work). While it doesn't have all of the features of the ScanGaugeII, it has a few alarms, particularly the coolant temp alarm which warned me that a hose had blown off (mechanic hadn't fitted overflow bottle hose clamp), while the dash temp gauge didn't move.

Read more at viewtopic.php?f=8&t=6198&start=0

Still wish I could use the ScanGaugeII, but glad I have the Smart Gauge.

[Loosey]

Does anyone know if any forum sponsors sell te scan gauge II?

Would much rather buy from a sponsor then eBay

[FIRIE]

Thanks to all who replied got some great info and have now started the process,thanks again

[Hellbound]

Only buy a scanguage II or smart gauge, what a wasted effort of pissing around getting it to work on your iphone - scangauge just plugs in and plays and stays in the car all the time - no pairing up or phone battery dead

[pauly308]

Try AutoEnginuity

I use it on a F250 and it's great. With this unit you have to buy a pack per vehicle make. For instance, you can buy the base plus the Ford add on, or Toyota, or Mitsubishi etc.

It does everything.